Jeanette Reynolds shares the story behind her nonprofit, Miles 4 Madison, in memory of her daughter, Madison and dedicated to building inclusive parks in communities and providing recreational opportunities for everyone. Jeannette's son, Cal Reynolds, is co-founder.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR DAUGHTER, MADISON, AND WHY THIS NONPROFIT IS SO SPECIAL?
Madison was born in 1994 with lissencephaly, a rare genetic condition that impacts the brain. She was unable to walk, was non-verbal, and tube-fed. However, she found joy in feeling motion, such as being pushed in her wheelchair or swinging in swings. Miles 4 Madison was created in 2018 to create more recreational and accessible activities in local parks for families with special needs.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE IN ADA ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE PARKS?
ADA accessibility only ensures entry into a park. Inclusivity requires accessibility to structures so everyone can engage and enjoy the play structures in parks. For example, replacing surfacing around play structures with poured-in-place rubber, rather than wood chips, and ramps to access off-the-ground structures.
HAVE ANY CHANGES BEEN MADE TO LOCAL PARKS AS A RESULT OF YOUR NONPROFIT?
In Sterling Ranch, bylaws have been successfully changed to ensure all future parks include at least one inclusive feature. A community park is currently under construction scheduled to open on July 26, featuring inclusive equipment. Additionally, meetings are planned with the Douglas County Park Commission to expand beyond Sterling Ranch.
BEYOND PLAYGROUNDS, WHAT IS THE MISSION FOR MILES 4 MADISON?
In addition to focusing on recreational opportunities for all, Miles 4 Madison’s mission also includes providing scholarships for hippotherapy and Easter Seals Camp. These programs offer diverse ways to support individuals with disabilities and show donors the immediate impact of their contributions.
HOW CAN SOMEONE HELP CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR MISSION AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
Miles 4 Madison’s fourth annual 5K/1K Fun Run is coming up on Sept. 20, starting at 8:45 a.m. at Sterling Ranch Community’s Providence Park, 8100 Piney River Ave. In recent years, this race has raised approximately $20,000. To learn more, visit miles4madison.org or email miles4madison@gmail.com.