SHELBY PERROTTA wants children to be able to play with no barriers.
For the past three years, Perrotta has been working with local mothers, charitable organizations and governments to bring to life Airdrie’s first inclusive playground.
In July 2024, she was successful in opening the playground in the Bayside community.
“I believe play is a fundamental human right,” says Perrotta. “Play does not discriminate, but inaccessible playgrounds do. If a child cannot access or participate at a playground, we are taking away their human right.
“I have seen children in wheelchairs and their caregivers find joy — even grandparents on motorized scooters play with children. It’s so much more than just a playground. We are empowering the community to promote inclusion and allow access for everyone to participate.”
Nominator Kayla McPhail helped Perrotta develop the park.
“Shelby has shown our community what an amazing advocate she is with the disability community,” says McPhail.
“The commitment and passion that she has is so remarkable and inspiring. She truly deserves to be recognized for this incredible accomplishment.”
Both Perrotta and McPhail have plans to create legislation around playground accessibility. They hope to create a series of minimum standards such as rubber surfacing and at least one inclusive feature to be built in all playgrounds moving forward.