Rochester Voice 8:44 a.m.
Friday, May 2, 2025 8:44 am
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ROCHESTER - Rochester Rotary members gathered recently to celebrate the new Communication Boards at Hanson Pines Playground.
The Rochester Rotary Club, in collaboration with the Rochester Rec Department, has also put up a similar communication board at the Rochester Common.
The communication boards include a wide range of images specifically selected to support communication by pointing to or touching one or multiple images. Children with limited verbal communication, such as children with a disability or autism, can communicate with caregivers and other children.
Rochester Rotary Club President Chris Harrelson said the project fits well into Rotary's mission to support mothers and children, one of the organization's seven major areas of focus.
"This project allows us to contribute to inclusive play for all children in our community by increasing opportunities for communication," said Harrelson. "The Rochester Rotary Club is proud to provide these high-quality, long-lasting communication boards to augment our fantastic parks at Hanson Pines and Rochester Common."
Steve Trepanier, assistant director of Rochester Rec & Arena, added that the communication boards make the playgrounds more inviting and accessible to more children in the community.
"Adding the communication boards to our playgrounds ensures that every child, regardless of their abilities, have the opportunity to engage, express themselves, and be part of the fun, fostering inclusion and social connection for all," said Trepanier.