At Recreation Plus, we believe that every child deserves a safe space to play, dream, and grow. That’s why we’re proud to support Kids Around the World (KATW)—a nonprofit organization on a mission to create joyful play environments for underserved communities across the globe.

A Legacy of Play, Born in Ukraine

The story began in 1994 in Rockford, Illinois, when the community came together to build a playground as a gift to their sister city, Brovary, Ukraine. What started as a single act of kindness sparked a global movement. Today, Kids Around the World has:

• Built 1,254 playgrounds

• Reached 87 countries

• Touched the lives of thousands of children

Giving New Life to Old Playgrounds

KATW specializes in repurposing playgrounds that are no longer needed in the U.S. Instead of ending up in a landfill, these structures are refurbished, shipped, and rebuilt in communities around the world—often in places where children have never seen, let alone played on, a playground.

The results are transformative. With the help of industry professionals and dedicated volunteers, KATW brings hope and joy to children living in extremely difficult circumstances.

“There are places around the world facing unimaginable challenges—and children are often the hardest hit. Play offers them a chance to just be kids.”

Why Play Matters

Introducing a playground to a community isn't just about fun. It's a catalyst for healthy childhood development and community renewal. When a child gains access to play, they also gain:

• Emotional benefits: Joy, creativity, imagination, and hope

• Social growth: Opportunities for compassion, sharing, and inclusivity

• Physical strength: Improved coordination, agility, and overall health

Calling All Designers: Shape the Future of Play

In most of KATW’s projects, the focus is on rebuilding the playground itself—but what if we could go one step further? What if the entire park surrounding the playground was thoughtfully designed to support community connection and long-term impact?

We’re inviting designers, landscape architects, and creatives to help us reimagine what these spaces can become. We're launching a design competition to create a park concept around a KATW playground build—and the winning entry will receive a free trip to Panama to see the transformation firsthand.

Ready to join us in making a difference? [Enter the competition HERE.]