29-07-2013: Joburg Zoo launches wheelchair friendly children’s playground
Marking a huge milestone in Joburg Zoo’s 109 years, Redefine Properties Playground, catering for both able and disabled children, will open to the delight of both parents and children on 30 July at 10.30am.
The opening and ribbon cutting ceremony will be conducted by senior managers from Redefine Properties, who have invested over R1 million in the project, and Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo who welcomed the company’s interest and have collaborated closely on every stage of the playground’s development.
Also invited to the opening are children from Forest Town’s Multiple Sclerosis care homes and other selected guests from the media and business world. Commenting on the project, Redefine Properties CEO Marc Wainer said:
“We are committed to uplifting the communities in which we conduct our business and, having noticed that there was no wheelchair–friendly equipment at the Zoo, we decided to donate the playground equipment to provide a safe and fun environment for all children. We’re grateful for the enthusiastic cooperation of City Parks and Zoo who shared our vision and commitment.”
Mr Wainer said the children’s playground is just one of many social and empowerment initiatives the company supports around the country. He and his entire management team and staff are committed to the belief that the private sector has a duty to contribute meaningfully to community upliftment as Government alone cannot bear the burden.
The Joburg Zoo has adopted a holistic approach to meeting the recreational needs of its visitors while simultaneously showcasing the importance of conservation.
The Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Development in the City of Joburg, Councillor Chris Vondo, commended Redefine for catering to the needs of physically challenged children visiting the Joburg Zoo. He added, “Children with disabilities are often the most marginalised in society, and it is vital that government, the private sector and communities collaborate to afford these children the best recreational experience available in Joburg”.
Redefine Properties has arranged for maintenance of all the playground equipment the company has provided for a minimum of three years.
Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo will be sponsoring groups of needy children to enjoy an outing to the playground regularly throughout the year and is encouraging parents with wheelchair bound children to bring them to the Zoo where they can now enjoy this great new attraction.
ENDS
For media enquiries, please contact Grace Kadzere at the Charlie Bravo Media desk on 011 784 4314, 073 317 6581, or grace@continuumstudios.co.za
