Amelia Burbank, a 10-year-old with a clear message in mind: “I just want to help.” For over a year, Amelia has been dedicated to making the Schilling Elementary School playground in Homer Glen more accessible for children with disabilities. Her main concern is ensuring that children in wheelchairs can enjoy recess with their friends rather than sitting on the sidelines.
To advance this cause, Amelia and her family organized the ‘Amelia’s Act of Kindness Yard Sale’ last May at Heritage Park. They also collaborated with Homer Glen’s Ability Awareness Committee, participating in activities like the dunk tank and beer tent during the previous year’s HomerFest. Support extended beyond local boundaries as a relative in Arizona discussed the fundraiser on his radio show, leading to donations from California, Nevada, and Arizona. Together, Amelia and her family raised over $11,000 for playground equipment.
Principal Candis Gasa stated that the timing of Amelia’s efforts was ideal. Homer Elementary School District 33C was in the process of replacing mulch with wheelchair-accessible turf. The Schilling Parent-Teacher Organization also contributed $25,000 for the new equipment. The turf installation allows for year-round playground use, even when temperatures drop.
During the fourth-grade farewell party, Gasa presented Amelia with a heart-shaped wand as a token of appreciation. The latest playground improvements, including handicap-accessible turf and various new structures, totaled over $250,000, funded by PTA and district contributions, alongside Amelia’s fundraising.
Tim Russ, Director of Building and Grounds, explained how the school enhanced the drainage system, added new turf, a handicapped-accessible apron, a rock climbing structure, and sensory musical instruments. Amelia’s efforts also contributed to the installation of a new Gaga Ball Pit, an inclusive form of dodgeball. “A lot of people are using it,” Amelia noted, emphasizing its community benefit and inclusiveness.
While Amelia initially considered a basketball system catering to diverse abilities, the costs were prohibitive. Her mother, Kim Burbank, noted that this experience provided valuable lessons in handling challenges when actualizing ideas.
Amelia was not alone in her endeavors. Georgia McGoldrick and Kinsey Hellmuth, both age 10, joined in her fundraising activities. Kinsey emphasized the importance of equality, while Georgia expressed a desire to continue advocating for inclusive playgrounds.
Melissa Chandarana, a District 33C board member and parent of a child with disabilities, lauded the district’s progress with accessible playgrounds, highlighting the accessible Gaga pit. Karen R. Adamczyk from the Ability Awareness Committee praised Amelia’s enthusiasm and presentations to the board, underscoring the importance of inclusivity for students with special needs.
For Carly Bos, whose son has developmental delays, such inclusivity allows for meaningful peer interactions. She expressed gratitude for Amelia’s empathy towards children like her son. Principal Gasa concluded that fostering community and unity is integral to schooling, shaping individuals to be conscientious global citizens. “This is a big deal as we grow to be good citizens and initiate change,” Gasa stated.
Michelle Mullins contributed as a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
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