Morgan’s Wonderland – the World’s First Accessible Theme Park

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By JohnPosted In: ChildFund International

Morgan’s Wonderland in Texas is the world’s first ultra-accessible theme park. Unlike typical theme parks, Morgan’s Wonderland features a tranquil environment free from long lines and loud noises, and admission is free for individuals with disabilities.

Free Carnival Amusement vector and picture

The park is equipped with wheelchair-accessible rides, including a new zip line that offers stunning views over a fishing lake and the surrounding gardens. Since its inception in 2010, nearly 4 million guests from across the globe have visited Morgan’s Wonderland. The park recently underwent a $6 million renovation, adding a community center, a sports field, and Morgan’s Salon, an adaptive hair salon which provides hair and nail services in a wheelchair-friendly environment. Miranda Raab, who has cerebral palsy, shared her relief at being able to enjoy a stress-free haircut at the salon. “I’m able to just roll my chair up to this space right here that is open. And I was just able to get my haircut like everyone else… It’s way more relaxing than trying to go to a regular salon.”

Morgan’s Wonderland was founded by Gordon Hartman, of the Gordon Hartman Family Foundation. The park was inspired by Gordon’s daughter, Morgan, who was born with physical and cognitive challenges. Designed to promote inclusivity, the park not only offers a space where children like Morgan can engage freely, it also spearheads initiatives to enhance accessibility in businesses nationwide. Hartman’s vision for an ultra-accessible hotel underscores his commitment to creating environments that cater comprehensively to those with special needs.

Detroit Youth Non-profits to Receive Millions for Endowments

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By M. MarksPosted In: ChildFund International

In an inspiring collaboration, Lisa Ford and her husband Bill, the Executive Chair of Ford Motor Co., have launched a visionary campaign to bolster the future of Detroit-based youth organizations. In partnership with The Children’s Foundation, the Fords aim to secure a minimum of $10 million to establish permanent endowments for ten deserving nonprofits focused on serving the city’s younger population.

Endowments offer increased financial stability, allowing nonprofits to draw annual returns to support their operations. The chosen Detroit nonprofits will be announced in June. They will each receive $500,000 that will enable them to launch an endowment, and they will have the opportunity to grow the endowment through matching contributions and fundraising efforts.

Lisa Ford’s approach was shaped by prior successful fundraising endeavors and a belief in the power of collaboration to effect meaningful change. The campaign’s innovative approach to endowment selection will involve community input, emphasizing a broad spectrum of services eligible for support. The initiative seeks to challenge the norm, where only a fraction of nonprofits are privileged to have endowments. Experts in the field of philanthropy advocate for endowments as a means of ensuring generational equity and organizational stability.

By fostering a financially secure environment for youth-focused nonprofits, the Fords and The Children’s Foundation aim to create a lasting impact, ensuring these vital organizations can continue their work for generations to come.