Owen’s Place is a universally accessible recreation area, designed to meet a full range of physical, intellectual, emotional and social needs of children and adults with various abilities. It is the inspiration of Trish Gustafson, whose son, Owen, uses a wheelchair. Owen’s Place is located in Victory Park, which is accessible through Rotary Park in Beavercreek.
Owen’s Place is in partnership with Beavercreek Township Trustees, Beavercreek Township District Park Board, Beavercreek Rotary, Greene County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Greenebucs the Lions Club and Greene County Community Foundation.
The shadow play area with colorful panels and various textures was the first phase completed for Owen’s Place. This provides an activity for visually impaired children to use their sense of touch. There are also two bench swings set at wheelchair height so individuals can access them easily.
The Tree House Village was then completed. It and includes ramps, swings, swinging bridges, boardwalks and a clubhouse. It’s quickly become a family favorite.
The playground area was just completed and children are in love with the swings and accessible merry-go-round.
Currently, fundraising and plans for accessible restrooms is underway as the nearest restroom facilities are 300 yards away. More accessible parking is needed near Owen’s Place as its popularity is growing.
Fundraising efforts with the help of OP’s all volunteer staff, community volunteers and businesses are ongoing to raise the funds for an accessible baseball diamond. Check out our most up to date progress on Facebook!