Page 10 • SEPTEMBER 9 - OCTOBER 13 2026 • RIVERVIEW REGISTER
Kiwanis of Riverview Brings Inclusive Swing to Memorial Park For generations, the Kiwanis of Riverview has worked to improve the lives of local families, especially the children of our community. From providing dictionaries to elementary students and supporting youth leadership programs to help families during the holidays, Kiwanis members have consistently looked for meaningful ways to ensure Riverview’s children feel supported, valued and included. That tradition of service recently continued with the donation of a new adaptive swing at Memorial Park. The idea began with Kiwanis Board Member Brenda Tuttle, who took time to visit several of Riverview’s neighborhood parks. While the parks offered many wonderful recreational opportunities, she noticed that, with the exception of Young Patriots Park, they lacked a swing specifically designed for children and individuals with special needs. “Every child should be able to enjoy the simple experience of going to the park and swinging,” Tuttle said. “When I realized that several of our parks did not have an adaptive swing, I felt this was something Kiwanis could help address. I was thrilled when the board immediately embraced the idea.” Tuttle began researching companies that specialize in inclusive playground equipment. She also contacted Riverview Recreation Director Todd Dickman, who had been working with Play Environments Design on the new inclusive, ADA-compliant playground at Young Patriots Park. Working with Dickman and Play Environments Design, Kiwanis selected and purchased an adaptive swing seat for Memorial Park. The specially
designed seat features a molded construction, high back, adjustable safety harness and a neutral body position to provide additional comfort and support. The Kiwanis Board of Directors unanimously approved the project earlier this year. The board includes President Diane Kinlen, Treasurer Debbie Apkarian, Secretary Dr. David Grachek, Mayor Andrew Swift, Brenda Tuttle and Karen Pierson. “This project reflects exactly what Kiwanis is about recognizing a need and working together to meet it,” Kinlen said. “We want every child and every family to feel welcome in Riverview’s parks. We are proud to provide something that makes Memorial Park more inclusive and gives more children the opportunity to enjoy it.” Play Environments Design has
served Michigan communities since 1992, providing commercial playground equipment and related outdoor amenities for municipalities, schools, churches, daycare centers and other organizations. The company has installed hundreds of playground products throughout Michigan and works to ensure its projects comply with the state’s public playground safety requirements. Its experience with inclusive recreational equipment made Play Environments Design an important partner in helping Kiwanis select a swing that would safely and comfortably accommodate those who need additional support. Allen’s Trophy of Riverview also contributed to the project by producing and installing the acknowledgment recognizing the Kiwanis donation.
The adaptive swing was recently installed, and Kiwanis members gathered at Memorial Park to celebrate its completion. More than simply adding another piece of playground equipment, the swing provides children with special needs and their families with greater convenience, accessibility and the opportunity to participate alongside others. “As mayor and as a proud member of the Kiwanis of Riverview, I am grateful to Brenda for recognizing this need and turning her concern into action,” Mayor Andrew Swift said. “A truly welcoming community considers the needs of every resident. This adaptive swing is a wonderful example of how a local service organization; city staff and community businesses can work together to make Riverview more inclusive for everyone.” The project also demonstrates that meaningful community improvements often begin with one person asking a simple question: What is missing, and how can we help? For the Kiwanis of Riverview, the answer has always centered on service, particularly service to children. The club welcomes community-minded individuals who would like to help continue this important work. Whether supporting local students, helping families in need or making Riverview’s public spaces more inclusive, there are many opportunities to make a difference. The Kiwanis of Riverview meets at 6:15 p.m. on the first and fourth Thursdays of each month at Atria Kinghaven. Anyone interested in learning more or joining the club is encouraged to come or contact Kiwanis President Diane Kinlen at 734-283-4552.
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