Killeen, Texas [9/24/21] – On a Saturday morning in September 2019, more than 220 volunteers descended on Peaceable Kingdom by Variety. Led by 20 Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) volunteers, the Bell County community team built a sensory-rich, fully accessible, musical playground – in just eight hours. Recently, KDP was recognized for that accomplishment with the 2021 Corporate Award from Variety – the Children’s Charity International.
Since 1937, Variety chapters from around the globe have nominated peers to celebrate - individuals and companies - like KDP, who have made a significant impact for Variety kids. The Corporate Award recognizes corporations who demonstrate a substantial level of support for Variety’s mission. Inspired by KDP’s “Let’s Play Initiative,” the KDP/Cinemark Playground at Peaceable Kingdom by Variety now serves more than 7,000 children each year. The inclusive playspace features interactive sensory equipment and activities to delight all the senses.
“As a parent of a child with special needs, who actually helped in the build the playground,” said Tom Nawa, KDP Director of National Accounts, “there is nothing more rewarding than to see the reaction on her face knowing she was helping others gain access to a playground suited to their needs. We hope that our financial support and sweat equity will help shape young lives by giving them access to a place to play for years to come.”
The KDP/Cinemark Playground at Peaceable Kingdom by Variety was a collaboration, led by KDP, between 14 community partners and 55 Variety children, family members, and professionals who contributed to the design of the KABOOM! playspace. In total, more than 2,500 volunteer hours were committed to the project.
“Children are delightfully discovering themselves on this playground every day thanks to the KDP crew,” said Variety of Texas Executive Director and President Stacy Bruce. “Kids of all abilities feel welcome to explore the fun here.”
Like Nawa says, “Let’s keep playing.”
VARIETY of TEXAS is a charitable organization that opens up the world for kids with special needs and their families by providing resources and empowering experiences. We envision a world without isolation and stigma for children with special needs and their families.
PEACEABLE KINGDOM, by VARIETY, located in Killeen, TX - one hour north of Austin - is a beloved safe haven for thousands of children exploring their self-reliance and mobility. In support of our mission of healing through nature, we’ve tailored our 122-acres to accommodate all campers’ needs. Peaceable Kingdom has become a place where kids of all abilities can push their personal limits while they discover the empowering freedom that comes from the great outdoors.
Learn more about Variety of Texas and Peaceable Kingdom by Variety at www.varietytexas.org. Find us on Facebook at @VarietyTX and Instagram at @varietyTX_peaceablekingdom.
For additional information, contact Stacy Bruce at 512.228.7509 or stacy.bruce@varietytexas.org.