When Cora Sue Gonzales became principal at Denver’s Johnson Elementary School last year, one of her first priorities was resurrecting the dilapidated playground.
“It is really important for the kids to have a safe place to play that they are excited to go to,” Gonzales said.
On Thursday, it happened in a day.
More than 200 volunteers, organized by KaBOOM, the Chrysler Foundation, Chrysler Financial, and local Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealerships, descended on the school, 1850 S. Irving St., to help create the children’s dream playground. The final design was based on drawings provided by Johnson students who met in April with organizers from KaBOOM.
KaBOOM is a national nonprofit organization whose vision is a great place to play within walking distance of every kid in America, said Nate Rosenthal, project manager at the site.
Chrysler not only gave monetary support to the project but provided volunteers who helped in the construction, said Fred Diaz, director of the Chrysler business center.
“It’s all about giving back to the community,” Diaz said. “I can’t think of a better way to bring joy to the kids.”
Brian Malnes: 303-954-1638 or bmalnes@denverpost.com
