SAN DIEGO, CA - The Poway Unified School District (PUSD) Community Advisory Committee (CAC) has been awarded a grant from the Poway Community Foundation in support of the Manny Project Adaptive Swings Initiative, a project focused on increasing playground accessibility and fostering belonging for students with disabilities.
The Poway Community Foundation raises and directs local resources to support programs that strengthen families and improve quality of life for Poway residents. Through its most recent grant cycle, the Poway Community Foundation invested more than $106,000 into local programs that directly serve Poway families, students, seniors, and residents in need.
On Friday, March 27, 2026, at Morning Creek Elementary School, the Poway Community Foundation presented a grant award check in the amount of $9,982 to the PUSD Community Advisory Committee. The funds will be used to purchase 13 adaptive swings for elementary school playgrounds across Poway Unified. These swings will significantly improve playground accessibility for students with disabilities and support meaningful inclusion through play.
During the presentation, Morning Creek Elementary School first grade student Brooklynn Spirit-Roth had the opportunity to use the adaptive swing. Having access to a swing like this allows Brooklynn to be on the playground with her peers, reinforcing the importance of inclusive play. During recess, Brooklynn’s peers help push the swing, creating natural opportunities for shared experiences, connection, friendship, and belonging.
Those present included Poway Unified staff Heather Schauder, Kristin Sullens, and Dan Cicchelli; Community Advisory Committee representatives Dan Roth and Andrea Rodriguez Chamberlin; and Poway Community Foundation leaders John Couvrette, Ginger Couvrette, and Meredith Gant.
The Manny Project Adaptive Swings Initiative is an example of how community partnerships can make a meaningful difference for students by expanding access, increasing inclusion, and creating school environments where every child feels they belong.