Mission Community Mobilization

By Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

As a school administrator, I have had the privilege of building school tracks, schools, pools as well as additions and major renovations, but nothing is as exciting as the celebration of new playground equipment. Mission elementary students could not wait to experience what was in store out on the playground. They have worked hard to earn the necessary funds to help make this happen. What they couldn't earn they showed thanks for at the Mission Playground Possible assembly.

The assembly started by tracing the project from beginning to end. Many of the donors were recognized and several were able to attend

• Dennis & Phyllis Washington Foundation: Jack Gilbraith
• Blackfoot Telephone: Jim Blush
• Plum Creek Foundation: Rebecca Hendrix
• St. Ignatius PTO: Mary Leishman
• Indian Education Committee: Terry Durglo and Dana Hewankorn
• Recreation Brand: Jeremy Winters

In addition to the large donors that attended, we recognized all other contributions and donors as well. Students enthusiastically applauded each donor and contribution. The students showed the same love that was given with their applause. It was a proud day to be a Bulldog. After the assembly and the celebration concluded the playground was unlocked for student access.

I was so moved by the number of elementary students that came up to me and said "thank you." From kindergarten to the fifth grade, our kids know how to be grateful. In many cases it was a hug and then off to the new playground equipment. After seeing how much they enjoyed the new equipment, it only made me wish we could have gotten it to them even sooner.

This project has been a community project. Everyone has worked hard to earn the money and support needed to gain the needed attentions of larger donor organizations. Our community was determined to make this project happen. It wasn't easy, but it was worth it. We had walk-a-thons, pennies for playground, Tupperware sales, silent auctions, pizza sales, pathways for playgrounds and GoFundMe websites in order to earn the money needed to get the flywheel moving. Once it got started, the momentum has continued into the next playground equipment project in the upper playground. We have already collected over $13,200. Another $24,000 and we will have the funds to apply to another matching grant and install our next playground structure.

So many have done so much. As a collective whole, Mission answered the call of our students' needs. This project will serve as a template to follow for mobilizing a community. Mission is a great example of community mobilization.  Now...lets go out an get another $24,000 for the upper playground.

See the Missoulian for their coverage of the Mission Playground "Made" Possible assembly.