Variety KC, the Children's Charity of Greater Kansas City,  announced Joe D. Dennis Park in Westwood, Kansas, as the second park in its groundbreaking Ten Parks Project, a regional initiative that will create ten fully accessible, all-abilities playgrounds and inclusive community spaces throughout Greater Kansas City. 

"This is exactly the type of neighborhood park we envisioned when we launched this project,” said Marc Harrell, CEO and Chief Inclusion Officer of Variety KC. “A community that already showed up for this space, a city that's fully bought in, and the momentum to turn it into somewhere families come from across the region." 

The initiative is made possible through a historic $30 million commitment from Peter and Veronica Mallouk and the Mallouk Family Foundation. When complete, the Ten Parks Project will ensure that no family in the Greater Kansas City metro lives more than 10 miles from a fully inclusive and accessible playground. The initiative reflects a belief that inclusive design should be the standard, not the exception, and that every child deserves a playground created with them in mind. When all ten parks are complete, Greater Kansas City will become one of the most inclusive cities in the world. 

“The City of Westwood is so thankful to and for Variety KC and the Mallouk Foundation for this opportunity to provide a modern, expanded, and fully accessible park for our Westwood residents,” said Mayor David Waters. “Parks and green spaces that can serve all build and strengthen communities, and this incredibly meaningful gift from Variety KC and the Mallouk Foundation is a wonderful recognition of the City's efforts to meet these needs for our community." 

Westwood’s Joe D. Dennis Park has long needed an upgrade, but limited City resources have made that a challenge. With this tremendous philanthropic gift, the Westwood community will have the unprecedented opportunity to reimagine the park, including the former church site. As a part of the Ten Parks Project, it will feature accessible play experiences designed to welcome children of all abilities while creating opportunities for families to play together and enjoy community events in an inclusive environment. 

"Joe D. Dennis Park is an important part of the Westwood community," said Katherine Carttar, City Administrator. "It is a place for gathering and joy across generations. The generous investment of the Mallouks and partnership with Variety KC send a clear message that parks and public spaces belong to everyone. We're grateful for this extraordinary opportunity to reimagine Joe D. Dennis Park as an inclusive and welcoming space for families in Westwood and beyond." 

The next steps will include budget discussions regarding the 20% local match, opportunities for community input, and the commencement of the design process.

Updates here: https://www.westwoodks.org/projects-and-plans/page/joe-d-dennis-park-redevelopment-0