The public is invited to a grand opening celebration for Molly’s Playground at the Salida Boys & Girls Club, 709 Palmer St. The dedication is slated for 4:00 p.m., Friday, April 8.
The new playground is named in honor of Molly Grether. “Molly will always be remembered for the deep friendships she made and the way she brought out the best in others,” said her mom, Katy Grether.
Salida’s newest playground is open to everyone and features a modern, two-story play structure, a play area with safety fencing and a shade structure with picnic tables. Molly’s Playground gives a much-needed boost to the Boys & Girls Club’s outdoor programming needs. It’s also a welcome addition to kids and families looking for a safe place where people of all ages and backgrounds can connect, play and learn.
“It’s another wonderful example of how an intentionally designed space can make our community stronger, more welcoming, more engaged. We are honored that Katy and Bob Grether have shared Molly’s memory and inspiration with us,” said Brian Beaulieu, the Club’s Executive Director. “I got to know Molly and like so many others, was charmed by her generous spirit and her welcoming personality. Bob and Katy helped us transform a parking lot into a place that will welcome hundreds of kids and families every year. It’s a such a fun space now.”
Molly’s Playground is named after Molly Grether, a well-loved member of the Salida community. Photo courtesy Salida Boys & Girls Club.
The project was made possible with major support from the Molly Grether Fund, The Colorado Health Foundation, the City of Salida, Diesslin Structures Inc., and more than 120 individual donors. In-kind support was provided by Pavement Maintenance Services, Altamont Landscaping, David Lady and Bill Almquist.
The April 8 event will include a brochure inspired by Molly Grether, food, a ribbon cutting, inspirational words, play, and live music by Big Meadow’s Andrea and Matthew Coen.
Board Chair Duncan Campbell summed up the Club’s appreciation and excitement. “We expect to be the gold-standard in youth development here in Chaffee County,” he said. “A great playground helps us as we work to change the trajectory of youth and teens’ lives here. Great people like Molly, Bob and Katy Grether and our investors made this playground happen. Let’s give it the grand opening it so deserves on April 8.”
Featured image: The new playground at the Salida Boys and Girls Club is a place for the community and visitors to play and relax. Photo courtesy Salida Boys & Girls Club.
Recent Comments