(AUBURN) - Fortify Life has launched a public fundraising campaign to help build what organizers say will be DeKalb County's first free public splash pad.
The project, known as Fortify Play, recently received approval for a matching grant opportunity of up to $50,000 through the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority's CreatINg Places program.
Under the grant, donations made during a 60-day crowdfunding campaign will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $50,000.
Fortify Play is planned for Connection Drive in Auburn and will feature a public splash pad and outdoor park space.
"We don't have words for the excitement and gratitude we feel for this opportunity through the IHCDA," said Sydney Kent of Fortify Life. "Creating public, accessible spaces where families and individuals can gather, play, and simply exist without a cost attached is profoundly important."
According to Fortify Life, the project is designed to be more than a playground. Organizers say they envision a community gathering place where families can connect, children of all ability levels can play, and residents can spend time together.
In addition to traditional splash pad features, the project will include accessible and inclusive elements designed to support a wide range of physical, developmental and sensory needs.
Fortify Life says supporters will have multiple opportunities to participate in the campaign in the coming months, including T-shirt design contests, dine-to-donate events, community activities, sponsorship opportunities and direct donations.
The organization officially launched its crowdfunding campaign on May 20. Donations made during the campaign period will help unlock the full state matching grant.
Additional information, project details, 360-degree renderings and donation opportunities are available through Fortify Life's Fortify Play campaign website.