Southborough – Students at the Albert S. Woodward School were welcomed back to school with an unexpected update to their playground. Two new half-court basketball courts, along with two new developmentally appropriate basketball hoops were installed before the start of the school year. During recess, second- and third-graders at the Woodward School now have an opportunity to choose to play a friendly game of half-court basketball, shoot baskets with friends or play skill-driven games to improve their shots. The courts are also available to children and families after school hours and on the weekends.
With the help of volunteers, grants and donations from many local organizations and businesses, Friends of Southborough Recreation (FOSR) secured enough funds to create this new outdoor recreational space for children and families. FOSR is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization that provides funding for programs and improvements that support its mission, as well as providing scholarships and grants to deserving community members. The funding for this project was the result of many individuals working together to benefit the community. A significant portion of the funding was granted to FOSR by the Choate Fund Trustees in the form of the 2012 Choate Grant. This award supports programs or initiatives closely aligned with the grant founder, Charles F. Choate's, desire to support recreation to benefit all in the town of Southborough, especially the youth.
In addition, Southborough Youth Basketball Association (SYBA) and Middlesex Savings Bank both made donations to this project. The town of Southborough, including the Board of Selectmen, Recreation Department, Building Department, Department of Health, School Facilities manager and Woodward School Principal James Randell were all supportive of the project. The project would not have come together without the help of the following organizations: Alpha Youth Sports negotiated the two Jaypro basketball hoops and protective pads, Mr. Hoops installed the hoops and Forte Landscaping perfected the painting of the court surface. Finally, with the help of volunteers including FOSR members Beth McGonagle and Estela Shingleton, along with SYBA members John LaMalva, Bill Shields, and Jeff Cullen, the project came together as planned.
FOSR and The Southborough Recreation Department, with the support of Director Doreen Ferguson, were proud to collaborate on the new community space. Both organizations strive to promote and support health, togetherness and community spirit by providing recreational activities, facilities and special events. All are invited to help support the annual fundraiser Southborough's 6th Annual Gobble Wobble. This family-friendly event draws more than 1,000 participants each year, and includes a certified 5K road race, two-mile family walk and free kids fun run on Thanksgiving morning, Nov. 22. In the spirit of giving, donations will be accepted for the Southborough Food Pantry and U.S. troops overseas.
For more information on the race, visit www.eventbrite.com. To become a sponsor or volunteer, visit www.friendsofsouthboro.com or contact Melissa Shields at [email protected].
