San Antonio’s Heartwarming Legacy: A New Park for All
In the heart of San Antonio, a dream that began with deep sorrow is about to unfold into a vibrant celebration of life and community spirit. The life of Mitchell Chang, a beloved son, is being honored through the creation of an inclusive playground that promises to change the landscape for families with special needs.
Turning Grief into Action
When Mitchell passed away, his mother, April Chang, found herself navigating overwhelming grief. But instead of being consumed by that sorrow, she channeled it into something powerful—a mission to create a safe and inclusive space for children like her son. The result? The Mitchell Chang Foundation, a testament to love and resilience that has garnered thousands of dollars in donations.
After facing a year of challenges and delays, the community’s vision will finally come to fruition: the park is set to open on November 30th at 10 a.m. at Classen-Steubing Ranch Park, under the name “Mitchell’s Landing.” April is not just excited; she’s practically bursting with anticipation. “We want everyone to come and celebrate with us because honestly, the public has been wanting this for so long,” she shared with enthusiasm.
A Playground Like No Other
Located on Hardy Oaks Parkway, Mitchell’s Landing is not just any playground. It is a carefully designed space aimed at offering joy and inclusion to all children, especially those with special needs. April is proud to point out that this park goes well beyond the requirements set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). With features designed specifically for accessibility, it aims to provide the kind of play environment that every child deserves.
On a recent visit, it became clear just how thoughtful the design is. Imagine slides with benches at the bottom, where kids can take a break, or climbing rocks with spacious openings that accommodate wheelchairs. The pirate-themed playground is shaded, which means families can enjoy hours of play without the worry of sunburn. “A lot of families don’t realize that, yes, all playgrounds meet ADA standards,” Chang explained, “But this park will go beyond the standards. We really hope that this helps other families.”
A Community-Minded Initiative
The road to opening the park has been paved with community support. April expressed her gratitude, stating that much of the funding came from local donations and fundraising efforts. It’s a prime example of how communities can rally together for a good cause, and the Chang family is right in the mix, committed to seeing this project through. “I welcome the recent support from companies interested in helping the park financially,” she noted, highlighting the importance of collaboration.
Looking Ahead
As the grand opening approaches, April is also thinking about the future. “My focus after the opening will be creating a way to maintain Mitchell’s Landing for future generations,” she said. This forward-thinking approach is essential in ensuring that the park continues to serve all children and families for years to come.
Join the Celebration!
The upcoming opening of Mitchell’s Landing is not just about a park; it represents love, community, and groundbreaking change. Everyone is invited to this special celebration, which promises to be filled with joy, laughter, and a lot of heart. So mark your calendars and join the Chang family in what is sure to be an unforgettable day for San Antonio! Together, let’s honor Mitchell Chang’s memory by embracing inclusivity and making wonderful memories in this new space.
