Over the holidays, students at Williamstown Elementary School had something to celebrate - a very special gift from members of their own community. The Marietta Community Foundation was touched to receive stacks of handmade cards from students expressing gratitude for donations made towards their new playground. 

While funding was secured for the design and construction of the new Williamstown Elementary School, the school board was unable to foot the cost of the playground, which is estimated to be as much as $160,000. The Williamstown Fund for Excellence, of the Marietta Community Foundation, has generously partnered with other local organizations and individuals in Williamstown and surrounding communities to raise funds for the cost of the playground so that it can be constructed alongside the new school building.

Fundraising efforts are off to a great start, with $70,000 raised to date and additional $22,000 pledged or pending. The committee leading these efforts will be launching a campaign during May’s Day of Giving to collect and match funds to reach their goal. 

Current plans for the playground include an 1/8 mile track enclosing a grassed soccer field and a large play equipment area with mulch ground cover, though design is still underway. Construction on the new elementary school is slated for completion in spring of 2019, with construction on the playground planned for summer of 2019. 

A new playground means a great deal to the students of Williamstown Elementary School, and to the community of Williamstown. A donation to this project is an investment ensuring years and years of recess, thankful smiles, and playful, outdoor fun.