Amelia Burbank, a determined 10-year-old, has a clear aim: to help. Over the past year, she has actively worked toward making the playground at Schilling Elementary School in Homer Glen more accessible for individuals with disabilities. Amelia, currently in fourth grade, envisions a playground where children, particularly those using wheelchairs, can enjoy recess with their peers. Seeing anyone isolated during playtime affects her deeply.

To support this cause, Amelia and her family organized Amelia’s Act of Kindness Yard Sale in May at Heritage Park. They sought help from Homer Glen’s Ability Awareness Committee, and assisted at the dunk tank and beer tent during the previous year’s HomerFest. Promotion from a relative in Arizona, through his radio show, drew donations from California, Nevada, and Arizona, culminating in more than $11,000 for enhancing playground equipment.

This donation was acknowledged during the school’s fourth grade farewell party. Principal Candis Gasa remarked that the timing of Amelia’s contributions was impeccable. At that time, Homer Elementary School District 33C planned to replace the existing mulch with more accessible turf, aided by the Schilling Parent-Teacher Organization which had accumulated $25,000 for the equipment. The new turf enables year-round use of the playground despite winter conditions, without having to close it when the ground is frozen. Gasa expressed gratitude to Amelia by presenting a heart-shaped wand, symbolizing the magic she created.

“Everyone should be treated equally and fairly.” — Kinsey Hellmuth, 10

The upgraded playground, which cost over $250,000, was financed through a combination of PTO funds, district resources, and Amelia’s fundraising efforts, explained Tim Russ, the director of building and grounds. Improvements included enhanced drainage, new turf, a handicapped-accessible apron, a rock climbing structure, and sensory-stimulating musical instruments. Amelia’s fundraising also supported the Gaga Ball Pit, a feature praised for its accessibility across varied skill levels.

Amelia originally considered a basketball system designed for diverse abilities, but installation expenses were prohibitive. Her mother, Kim Burbank, noted it was a valuable life lesson, emphasizing the challenges in executing a vision. Georgia McGoldrick, 10, and Kinsey Hellmuth, 10, assisted in fundraising, reveling in the resulting inclusivity. District 33C board member Melissa Chandarana, with personal experience with disabilities, lauded the district’s efforts toward accessible playgrounds, underscoring the excitement around the Gaga pit’s inclusivity.

Karen R. Adamczyk, co-chair of the Ability Awareness Committee, highlighted Amelia’s engaging presentations and passion for aiding others. In her view, while inclusivity wasn’t as emphasized 20 years ago, it positively affects students with special needs who yearn for inclusion. Carly Bos, whose son has developmental delays, appreciated the chance for her child to interact with peers, noting Amelia’s thoughtfulness.

Principal Gasa added that the school advocates for community and inclusivity, fostering belonging for every student. She emphasized the importance of these values as children mature into responsible citizens who can drive positive change. Michelle Mullins, a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown, contributed to this coverage.