COLUMBIANA — Upper Room Fellowship has generously donated $25,000 to Columbiana Project Playground, a community-driven initiative dedicated to building an inclusive playground where children of all abilities can play, learn and connect together.

The donation represents a significant step forward in making the vision of an all-inclusive playground a reality for families throughout Columbiana and the surrounding area.

“Upper Room Fellowship believes strongly in investing in projects that uplift families and bring the community together,” said a representative of Upper Room Fellowship. “Columbiana Project Playground reflects those values by creating a space where everyone is welcomed, included, and celebrated.”

Columbiana Project Playground is designed to accommodate everyone of all physical, sensory and developmental abilities, ensuring that no one is excluded from the joy of play. The playground will feature accessible equipment, sensory-friendly spaces and thoughtful design elements that promote inclusion, safety and community engagement.

“This generous gift brings us closer to turning our dream into a reality,” said Michaela Good, President of Columbiana Project Playground. “Upper Room Fellowship’s support sends a powerful message about compassion, inclusion, and the importance of creating spaces where all families feel they belong.”

“I started attending service at the Upper Room Fellowship just three weeks before our daughter Sofia went to be with Jesus. The Leadership and community have been incredibly supportive to our family. It’s evident that this is a group of individuals that lead by example when it comes to living like Jesus,” said Stephanie Kale, Vice President of Columbiana Project Playground. “When I heard of the donation they made to the playground project, I was so moved, but not surprised. I’m appreciative that our family has been so welcomed, and that they chose our mission as the beneficiary of such a generous gift.”

Fundraising efforts for Columbiana Project Playground are ongoing, with additional opportunities for individuals, businesses, and organizations to contribute.

Join Columbiana Project Playground at itsnext events:

Jan. 2: 2 p.m. parade for the new playground equipment hosted by Birdfish Brewery.

Jan. 24: noon-6 pm., “For the Love of the Playground” event hosted by Birdfish Brewery. Picket Pickup will also be held.

For more information about Columbiana Project Playground or to learn how to support the project, visit playatfirestone.com