The Bowling family in partnership with Can’d Aid, the local nonprofit dedicated to rallying volunteers and getting kids active and creative through its Treads + Trails program, has reached its fundraising goal for the Berthoud Adaptive Park Project. While the final donation was made through the Community Foundation of Northern Colorado, many members of the community, local businesses, and volunteers have contributed to the $1.6 million raised in total to make the park possible. Ground was broken on the project earlier this year in May, and volunteers can help construct the park during community build days next spring. The Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting is currently scheduled for 2025.
“The closest ADA-accessible playground was 40 minutes away, so the Berthoud Adaptive Park will be a game-changer for families in the area. Play is so important for people of all ages and abilities and the park will create an inclusive, fun environment for all,” said Diana Hicks, Can’d Aid’s executive director.
The Berthoud Adaptive Park Project will become the area’s first playground of its kind, serving people of all abilities. It was inspired by Lauren and Richard Bowling, the parents of eight-year-old Braxton and seven-year-old twins Mack and Miles. During Lauren’s pregnancy, Mack and Miles were diagnosed with twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome and, in either labor or delivery, Miles was without oxygen long enough to result in a traumatic brain injury, known as Periventricular Leukomalacia, which ultimately led to the development and diagnosis of spastic triplegia cerebral palsy at age two. Though not affected cognitively or verbally, Miles is unable to stand or walk by himself which makes him dependent on a wheelchair for his mobility, freedom and independence. The Berthoud Adaptive Park will provide a fun and accessible place where Northern Colorado families like the Bowlings can play.
“I think I am truly still in shock. Seeing the Berthoud Adaptive Park Project fully funded is a dream come true. This park represents so much more than just a playground—it’s a place where kids like Miles, and all children, can play without limitations, together. We’re beyond grateful to the community, sponsors, and everyone who believed in this vision. This park will be a place where inclusion, joy, and opportunity come together for generations to come.” said Lauren Bowling, Miles’ mom.
Led by the Bowling family in partnership with Can’d Aid, fundraising was a true community effort, including lemonade stands, fundraising basketball tournaments and numerous generous donations and sponsorships. Earlier this year the Town of Berthoud’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously to use a cap of $650,000 of uncommitted park development and improvements funds toward the project. As a thank you, Can’d Aid will kick off the build events this fall with the Town Board, where they plan to construct park elements like the ADA benches and tables, play cubes, and an inclusive play see-saw. These will be stored by the town until The Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting, currently planned for 2025 when additional opportunities for the public to join events and attend will be announced.
Colorado-based Can’d Aid is a national nonprofit creating a movement and model for innovative, responsive and connected community engagement. Can’d Aid’s people-powered programs provide tools and access for under-resourced communities to lead healthy, active, and creative lives.
Ready to rally for your community? Join Can’d Aid during its park build events in 2025 and make the Berthoud Adaptive Park Project a reality. Learn more at candaid.org.