Seneca Community Fund

Goal: $350,000.00

Specific Need

The Seneca Community Fund is raising funds to create a dedicated toddler and preschool playground at Seneca City Park. While Seneca is fortunate to have playground options for younger children, City Park currently lacks a larger, age-appropriate play area specifically designed for toddlers and preschool-aged children that is available to families throughout the year and located adjacent to the community's primary playground.

The proposed playground will be designed for children approximately ages 2-5 and will feature accessible, poured-in-place surfacing, age-appropriate equipment, inclusive play opportunities, and expanded fencing to create a safer environment for young children.

Located next to the existing playground in the current sand volleyball court area, the new play area will allow families with children of multiple ages to enjoy the park together while providing a dedicated space where younger children can play, explore, and build confidence in a setting designed specifically for them.

Our current fundraising goal is $350,000 to support playground equipment, site preparation, surfacing, fencing, installation, and related project costs.

Mission

Enhancing Seneca Through Community-Driven Projects

The Seneca Community Fund works to support projects that improve the quality of life in Seneca while partnering with the City of Seneca and other community organizations. Through philanthropy, community engagement, and strategic fundraising, the Fund seeks to enhance public spaces, expand recreational opportunities, improve accessibility, and invest in projects that benefit residents and visitors for generations to come.

Profile

The Seneca Community Fund was established to help turn community ideas into lasting improvements. Our first major focus was improving accessibility and connectivity within City Park by installing perimeter sidewalks and pathways that connect park amenities. Thanks to strong community interest and support, the City of Seneca not only completed that vision, but also added paved parking areas for park visitors, school events and athletics, and community gatherings.

Building on that success, the Fund is now working with the City of Seneca's Recreation Committee to explore developing a dedicated toddler and preschool playground.

The project is currently in the planning and public input phase. Preliminary concepts include age-appropriate play equipment, climbing and sensory features, poured-in-place surfacing, and a fully enclosed playground area designed specifically for younger children. Community feedback will help shape the final design before formal bids are gathered and construction plans are finalized.

Every donation helps move the project forward while demonstrating community support for future grants, fundraising efforts, and park improvements.

Members serving on the Seneca Community Fund Committee are Julie Bergman, Brenna Eilert, Jessica Hermesch, Justin Lueger, and Bonnie Meeks.