Organization works to create all-inclusive park at Ascarate

By Kayla Melson / KTSM / Aug 06, 2018

Local children with special needs could soon have a fun and safe new place to play.

Moms On Board, a part of the Paso del Norte Foundation’s Community of Philanthropy, is partnering up with the county to add an all-inclusive park to Ascarate Park.

According to a news release, the park would include sensory tunnels, a demonstration garden, train rides, and other amenities for children of all abilities.

The organization has already secured the land on the north side of Ascarate Lake, and is now working with other local groups to raise the approximately $2.4 million needed to build the park.

“This all-inclusive park would be a welcome addition to Ascarate Park, not only for El Pasoans who have children with special needs, but also for visiting families who bring their children to El Paso for doctor visits,” said Paso del Norte Foundation CEO Tracy Yellen.

Founded in 2017, Moms On Board works to help parents find ways to make the community “better, safer and more fun for families and kids.”

One of the co-founders, Adrienne Flores, said the idea started after a couple of moms visited a city spray park and noticed there weren’t any shade canopies or benches. 

“We got together and said what can we do so we decided to march up to city council and tell them our experience at the spray park and allocated $1.2 million towards phase ii of the spray parks,” said Flores. 

If you’re interested in helping the organization build the all-inclusive park, click HERE to donate.