Families and friends gathered Thursday at the brand‑new Ashley Okland Star Playground in the Clive Greenbelt, marking the opening of one of Central Iowa’s most inclusive play spaces. Built by Variety Iowa – the Children’s Charity, the playground offers accessible equipment, gentle surfacing, ramps and natural play areas so that children of all abilities can enjoy the outdoors together.
Inclusive design for every child
“Inclusivity is so important. Children learn through play, and this playground lets kids of all abilities use the equipment,” said Alison Hanner, a representative of Variety Iowa, during the special playdate. “It’s not just for children living with special needs. Even toddlers can explore safely – the soft surface gives them a place to land if they fall.”
The playground features wheelchair‑friendly swings, sensory‑rich panels, and a winding natural‑play trail that blends wood‑chip paths with native landscaping. Ramps connect the various zones, and the soft‑fall surfacing meets the latest safety standards, ensuring a secure environment for all families.
Honoring Ashley Okland’s legacy
This is the second all‑inclusive playground in the Des Moines area dedicated to Ashley Okland, a former active board member of Variety Iowa who was tragically killed in 2011. The first Ashley Okland Star Playground opened in 2014 at Ewing Park on Des Moines’ south side. To honor her memory, friends, family and colleagues partnered with Variety to launch a fundraising campaign that surpassed its original $500,000 goal.
With the surplus funds, Variety Iowa added a nearby open‑air family shelter, providing a shaded gathering spot for parents and caregivers to watch their children play.
Community impact
The new playground reflects Clive’s commitment to creating welcoming public spaces that serve every resident. Local officials praised the project for enhancing the city’s park system and promoting family‑centered recreation. The Greenbelt location also offers easy access to walking trails, encouraging healthy outdoor activity for the whole community.
Variety Iowa plans to host regular playdates and inclusive events at the site, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging families to connect. The organization hopes the playground will serve as a model for other municipalities seeking to build truly accessible recreational areas.
How to visit
The Ashley Okland Star Playground is open daily during regular park hours. Families are invited to explore the equipment, enjoy the natural play zones, and make use of the new family shelter. For more information about upcoming events or to support Variety Iowa’s mission, visit the organization’s website.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
