The glorious, fresh 70-degree weather in Festus, Missouri has been marvelous this week. Savoring the sun and spring air is rejuvenating.
Our family has been restored with several hours, over the last few days, outside at one of our favorite local parks, Kade’s Playground, in Herculaneum. While we consider this park to be perfect, it was not created out of a perfect situation. The park was built in honor of Kade, a young boy who passed away at the age of three. The loss of a child is incomprehensibly devastating to me. Kade’s family moved through their grief with hope to transform playful souls of all ages, with all abilities. The legacy of Kade’s soul lives in the laughter and smiles of those who love this location.
…and there is much to love at this “Volcano Park”…
Space to run, explore, climb and jump.
Rocks, swings, bridges, slides and bars to play on.
Itty-bitty nooks for hiding, whispering secrets and allowing imaginations to run wild.
Stations to learn about music, animal tracks, games and a volcano, of course.
A soft ground to land on and a splash pad to cool off with, when the temperature heats up.
Restrooms with plumbing, tables and benches in the sun, or shade, for grown-ups to relax and tune in…or out.
All of this is perfectly nestled into the Herculaneum City Park campus which offers walking/biking trails, covered pavilions, many ball fields and a fenced-in dog park.
Environments such as this stimulate energy for curiosity and a chance to reconnect. Surely, this is the type of revitalizing transformation Kade’s family hoped for when they dreamed of a park to provide such power. The actualization of this physical and emotional atmosphere create lasting, memorable experiences, in memory of a sweet, missed soul.
“May there be comfort in knowing that someone so special will never be forgotten.” -JULIE HÉBERT
To Kade’s courageous family: our community is forever grateful for your ability to shift your sorrow to service.
Immense appreciation also goes out to the many generous sponsors who make this park possible.
This is another non-paid endorsement encouraging you to find the bliss in this spring weather, and in all our Festus-area community has to offer.
May Kade’s family and our local picturesque parks provide inspiration for us to find hope and help others.
776 Joachim Ave, Herculaneum, MO 63048
If you happen to be at this playground on a Saturday morning from 8 AM – noon (May – September), check out the: Herculaneum Farmer Market and say “Hi” to Chris & Desiree for me:
Learn about a generous local leader who proudly supports Kade’s Playground:
An event benefiting this playground:
10/12/24 – Autumn Ridge Car Show to Benefit Kade’s Playground
