What does HOPE look like to you?
For us at Playground Builders, Hope is a group of exuberant kids playing on a newly constructed playground. We are dedicated to building hope from the ground-up in war-torn areas such as Afghanistan, Iraq and the Palestinian Territories. Working with local businesses and non-profit organizations, we help create spaces where kids can be kids, communities can feel empowered and new possibilities can find a strong foundation.
The positive effects of our work are easy to see. Help us put smiles on the faces of children and build a better future, one playground at a time.
Our philosophy is based on involving local people in the playground building process and minimizing overhead costs. We use local contractors to build and install the playgrounds and local people to help us choose locations that are safe and needed the most. Every dollar donated goes directly to building playgrounds – all travel and administrative costs are covered by directors and volunteers at their own expense.
The Playground Builders Foundation was incorporated under the BC Societies Act on June 21, 2007. Playground Builders is a registered Canadian Charity #852810019RR0001.
Latest News
TELUS World Ski & Snowboard Festival, Whistler, B.C.
"Best of the Fest"- April 25, 2010
Playground Builders was named as an official charity of the TELUS World Ski and Snowboard Festival, April 2010. Over $28,000 has been raised over the last three years for play areas.
Special thanks to Sue Eckersley and all at Watermark Communications. Also thanks to the staff at the GLC. Past performers include Michael Franti, The Sam Bradley Band, The Darcy's, Shane Philip, Dave Oran and recently Wassabi Collective.
Latest Media
CBC National
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MYWKPnsL6VY
PSA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vx4xFidBRD8
Torch for the Truce Playground Fund, Whistler, BC
As the Olympic torch reaches its final destination, William Roberts is dedicating his run with the torch to bring awareness and understanding among nations. Recognizing the importance of our work to help children stricken by war, William is raising funds to build a playground in Afghanistan. Please support him in his goal by donating through Canada Helps.
Trinity College School, Port Hope, ON
William Langford and Cal Quantrill along with 65 fellow classmates raised enough funds through a Gym-a-thon to build another playground in Afghanistan! See Helpers in Action to read more about this fantastic fund raising event.
Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics
Thanks to the people at Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics, and their 'Charity Pot' program, Playground Builders received funding for two playgrounds. Look for the Playground Builders Charity Pot Hand and Body Cream at any Lush retail outlet.
Cornucopia
As the official Charity for Cornucopia, Whistler’s Celebration of Food and Wine, we raised enough funds for five new playgrounds! Our heartfelt thanks to all our volunteers and Silent Auction Donors who helped make these playgrounds happen.
Working Tour of Afghanistan and The Middle East
In the fall of 2009, at their own expense, Directors Kirby Brown and Keith Reynolds travelled to visit playground sites and our playground partners abroad. In addition to visiting our recently constructed playgrounds and finding sites for new ones, Kirby and Keith delivered books and letters from Canadian children to Afghan children in our playground areas. While making important connections, Kirby and Keith are pleased to report that all of our playgrounds are being happily used by thousands of children impacted by war.
Please view the slideshow from the visit.
Support from the Governor-General
Playground Builders received a wonderful letter of support from Canada's Governor General, Michaelle Jean.