The Intergenerational Clearinghouse and Education Center in Junction City has received funds from Live Well Geary and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas in the form of a Pathways to Healthy Kansas Implementation Grant totaling $30,749. The money will help implement a multi-generational fitness playground in the Fifth Street Playground Park.

The exercise equipment project will consist of five to six pieces of exercise equipment, for basic muscular building, and will cost approximately $43,000. The exercise area will be wheelchair and handicap accessible. The purchase and installation of the poured in place rubber foundation and Ab Crunch / Leg Lift equipment for the “All Ages” fitness playground is being funded with the grant.

Vickie Bobbitt, I.C.A.R.E. Center Executive Director said, “this inclusive fitness environment invites adults of “all abilities” to work out together. Parents can work out while their kids play on the playground, and older adults can add a fitness routine to their daily walks.” It’s also a way to increase park usage and health awareness in the community.

The I.C.A.R.E. Center is a non-profit organization established to provide interactions between youth and senior citizens in a structured environment, which will be beneficial to both populations.