258 cities and towns recognized for putting the needs of kids and families first as part of Playful City USA program
National non-profit KaBOOM! is honoring Benson with a 2017 Playful City USA designation for the fourth time. Playful City USA honors cities and towns across the country for putting the needs of families first so kids can learn, grow and develop important life skills. These communities are transforming ordinary places into playful spaces and using play as a solution to the challenges facing their residents.
The 2017 Playful City USA recognition includes 258 communities from Richmond, Virginia to Richmond, California that make it as easy as possible for kids to play. In total, these communities feature more than 14,000 safe and engaging playspaces that serve more than 4 million kids.
Benson strives to make play an important part of everyone’s life. In addition to the many athletic programs and facilities, the town has four playgrounds and the newly installed Mary Duncan Public Library Sidewalk Playspaces.
“The health and well-being of Benson starts with our children and families. An investment in our children is an investment in our future and play is an important part of fostering creativity and learning. I am proud that in Benson we put a priority on children and that it is being recognized with our fourth year of being designated as a ‘Playful City,’” says Benson Mayor William Massengill.
“We are thrilled to recognize Benson for putting kids first,” said KaBOOM! CEO James Siegal. “The well-being of our communities starts with the well-being of our kids, and play is critical for them to thrive. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that all kids get the childhood they deserve filled with play.”
Other NC cities and town recognized as a 2017 Playful City USA Community include: Albermarle, Charlotte, Creedmoor, Durham, Eden, Garner, Marion, Mayodan, Raleigh, Reidsville, and Saluda.
