A new community-driven effort is underway in Berrien Springs as residents, businesses, and local leaders unite to transform children’s dreams into a lasting investment in the future of the community.
The “Race to the Ribbon Cutting” campaign has officially launched to support the Drawn to Play Playground project at Grove Park — a public space inspired directly by the voices and imaginations of local children.
Through Michigan’s Public Spaces Community Places initiative and a partnership with Patronicity, the project now has the opportunity to unlock a transformational $75,000 matching grant. If the community successfully raises $75,000 through local donations, every contribution will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling the impact and accelerating the creation of a vibrant gathering space and playground for families across the region.
The project began with a simple question posed to local children: “What would your dream playground look like?” Their drawings, imaginations, and creativity then became the foundation for the project taking shape in Berrien Springs. What started as a classroom activity quickly evolved into a powerful movement centered around community pride, placemaking, and the belief that even the youngest voices can shape the future of a community.
The campaign is being framed as a “Race to the Ribbon Cutting” leading up to the June 26 opening celebration at Grove Park. Community members are invited to participate in the “Find $10. Give $10.” challenge, which will emphasize how small acts of support can create transformational impact.
Community leaders say the project represents more than a playground — it is an investment in quality of life, families, and vibrant public spaces that strengthen community connections and support economic vitality.
“This project represents the very best of community driven placemaking,” said Sheila Snyder, President of the Village of Berrien Springs. “Drawn to Play shows what is possible when a community listens to its children, embraces creativity, and comes together around a shared vision. This playground will serve families for generations and stands as a lasting reflection of collaboration, imagination, and community pride.”
The project has already gained statewide recognition through a recent Michigan Municipal League Community Excellence feature highlighting Drawn to Play as an inspiring example of innovative and community-centered placemaking. The feature can be found online here: In Berrien Springs, the Playground of Kids’ Dreams – Michigan Municipal League.
As momentum continues to build, organizers are calling on residents, businesses, alumni and supporters throughout the region to help bring the vision to life ahead of the June 26 ribbon-cutting celebration.
Community members interested in supporting the project or learning more can visit the official Drawn to Play Patronicity campaign page online: Projects | Wolf’s Prairie Playground | Patronicity.
