Shaw Family Playground

The Shaw Family Playground’s mission was to create a playground in Sheboygan County that is 100% accessible to all people and was inspired by formerly conjoined twins, Mateo and McHale Shaw. After enduring a 19-hour surgical separation surgery, the twins defied all odds and not only survived, but are full of life. Both boys use wheelchairs and one uses a walker as well, which opened the family's eyes to the need for this playground in Sheboygan, WI.

Mateo and McHale have inspired the playground in Evergreen Park with no barriers, regardless of ability. The design provides accessibility for any child, parent, grandparent or guardian, despite physical limitations. The playground allows children to play together side by side, and through imaginative play, children will foster learning and strengthen their physical skills.

The Shaw Family Playground features a poured-in-place surface, which is the number one safety rated, fully-accessible surface, as well as double-wide ramps throughout the entire play structure to:

• Allow a parent or child to go alongside a disabled friend or relative
• Allow peers to play alongside each other regardless of ability or disability
• Foster interaction, build friendships, and create space for imaginative play
• Allow a parent or caretaker to push a stroller alongside, interact, and play with their child
• Promote quality outdoor family time and allow a disabled or elderly companion to join in the fun throughout the play structure

Additionally, the playground is fully encircled by a picket-style fence for security, allowing children of all abilities to run and play safely.

• COZY DOME: Allows over-stimulated children, especially autistics, to take a break
• SWAY FUN: Allows two wheelchair-bound children to share a glider with able-bodied friends
• OMNI SPINNER: Allows children of all abilities to play along side each other and spin
• OODLE SWING: Large enough for 4 to 6 children, with transfer points for wheelchair or walker
• MULTI-PERSON SEE-SAW: 4 seated positions with backs, wheelchair/walker transfer accessible
• HAND LEVEL PLAY COMPONENTS: Creating hand, eye, and fine motor skill practice
• RAISED SAND TABLES: Sand box fun for children in wheelchairs or walkers
• SAND DIGGER: Allows wheelchair bound children to to dig in the sand with their peers
• ROLLER TABLE: Allows children of all abilities to experience fun of a roller pin table
• TRANSFER PLATFORM SLIDES: A triple-high slide with multiple transfer stairs/platforms
• MUSICAL COMPONENTS: Therapeutic, multi-sensory play for all
• BRAILLE PANELS: Sensory interaction for people with little or no vision
• ACCESSIBLE ZIP LINE: Allows the mobility-impaired to race a peer or family member beside them

The Shaw family partnered with the Friends of the Sheboygan Jaycees, who provided support and the ability to access the group’s 501(c)(3) status, which makes all donations tax deductible. The Jaycees will also be managing the long-term endowment fund for the city to ensure the playground remains accessible and properly maintained.

The City of Sheboygan provided property within Evergreen Park and provided in-kind labor for site preparation and partnership for new restroom facilities.

Steven Schmitt of Jos. Schmitt & Sons is leading the Lakeshore area Fundraising and Community Volunteer Construction efforts together with other community leaders, individuals, and organizations.

Just 12 minutes from Blue Harbor Resort in Sheboygan, WI.

In Evergreen Park

2614 Pine Grove Avenue | Sheboygan, WI

shawfamilyplayground.com