New Playground July 28, 2023
Check out Channel 2’s coverage by clicking HERE.
14 years ago, 2009, The Dakota Center began its quest to add a playground area to our facility. This past February, the new playground was finally installed at the north-west corner of our facility next to the outdoor basketball court. Having a safe place for children to play is important to building a healthy community. In 2015, a tragic accident occurred that took place right in front of the Center. The accident took the life of 7-year-old Kaleb Mondale Cook who was riding his bike.
To pay tribute and celebrate the life of Kaleb, we have invited the family of Kaleb Mondale Cook to be our guests of honor at this dedication ceremony. Kaleb was a friend of the Center. His family continues to engage with our services. It was Ms. Mitchell, former Executive Director of The Dakota Center and current Board of Directors Secretary, who has led the effort to dedicate this playground in memory of Kaleb. The area is now going to be called “Kaleb’s Corner.”
Accordingly, Ms. Mitchell made this comment about seeing the playground finally installed. “Dakota Center’s years of planning to celebrate the life of Kaleb and the children of the MacFarlane neighborhood is finally realized with a beautiful and safe playground. We are grateful for the funding and support of the entire Dayton community.” It is universally understood that play is so essential for child development not only because of the fun but also helps them develop emotional, social, creative, and physical skills that will serve them well into adulthood. It is our hope that Kaleb’s Corner can be a community focal point, bring together kids from the neighborhood where they can understand the world a little better and gain a sense of community spirit while having fun doing so.
