Livermore, CA—The Livermore Area Recreation and Park District (LARPD), in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Livermore and LARPD Foundation, is installing 10 Communication Boards across playgrounds in Livermore to enhance accessibility in community spaces. 

The Communication Boards, strategically placed in neighborhood and community parks, support effective communication for children of all abilities. The boards feature a variety of symbols and layouts that aid in expressing needs and emotions while engaging in play. This project underscores the commitment to creating more dynamic and inclusive playground environments that cater to families of diverse backgrounds and linguistic preferences. 

“The installation of these Communication Boards is a testament to our community's commitment to making parks welcoming for everyone,” LARPD General Manager Mathew Fuzie said. “We believe that every child should have the opportunity to enjoy and participate in outdoor activities, and these boards are a step towards making that a reality. We are incredibly grateful for the financial support from the Rotary Club of Livermore and the LARPD Foundation, which made this initiative possible.” 

The project was a collaborative effort, with LARPD staff working closely with Tri-Valley SELPA (Special Education Local Plan Area) to validate the effectiveness of the boards. Attention was given to details, including layout, symbols, height, location, and background color, to ensure the boards were accessible and user-friendly. 

Rotary Club of Livermore President Sheila Fagliano said, "These Communication Boards are a wonderful addition to our parks, providing a tool that helps children of all abilities connect and express themselves during play. Projects like this make a real difference in our community, and we're proud to have partnered with LARPD and the Foundation to bring this vision to life. ” 

The initial list of parks receiving Communication Boards includes Robertson Park, May Nissen Community Park, Bruno Canziani Park, Marlin Pound Park, Big Trees Park, Sunset Park, Altamont Creek Park, Pleasure Island Park, Jack Williams Park, and Almond Park. LARPD plans to install communication boards at additional parks in the future. 

LARPD Foundation President Connie Campbell highlighted how the project aligns with the Foundation’s goals. “The Foundation is focused on improving access to recreation for everyone in our community, particularly underserved groups,” Campbell said. “These Communication Boards are a great example of that. By making our parks more accessible, we're ensuring that all children, regardless of their background or abilities, can enjoy meaningful outdoor experiences.” 

This initiative was made possible by matching financial contributions from the Rotary Club of Livermore and LARPD with additional funds from the LARPD Foundation.