Two and half years ago a small group of grade two students from Holy Spirit had a big idea for a new park. Not only did they have an idea, but they had the plan.

This small but mighty group envisioned a new park at their school, not just a regular park but one that is environmentally friendly, accessible, and a fun play space. After realizing the existing playground was not wheel chair accessible students came up with a plan and presented to Parent Council; not just for a park, but a park that all students could use.

The Parent Council were so impressed with the students vision, they quickly formed a playground committee, spearheaded by Jan Quinlan and four other parent volunteers. To bring this vision to fruition this committee had to fundraise $201,000 so they quickly went to work, applying for grants, hosting fundraising events, and seeking community donations.

Holy Spirit Playground Committee Member, Lucy Lovelock, couldn’t stress enough that the student’s vision was the main priority. During the process, Parent Council made sure they stayed true to the children’s vision.

The name, Green Dreams Everybody Park, is quite fitting for this incredible project, says Lovelock.

“It’s 'Green' because of the recyclable content and 'Dreams' because it was born from the kids dream and 'Everyone' is about the accessible component so that anyone can join in and play regardless of their mobility.”

The playground is made almost entirely of recyclable plastics, 61,000 milk jugs were diverted from land fill to build all the structures and the rubber ground is made from recycled tires.

The park officially opened Tuesday, November 15,  Lovelock referred to the opening as 'Christmas Day' as delighted screams and laughter filled the air.