After speaking with several families who raised safety concerns about Forsythe Park, I had the opportunity to sit down with Hillary Sirmon, the organizer behind the inclusive playground vision for the park.
Hillary shared that her passion for inclusive play spaces began with her own child with special needs. She has helped fundraise and plan multiple park projects before, and her mission has always been simple: create spaces where all children, regardless of ability, can play together.
Forsythe Park is part of the City of Monroe’s broader Parks & Recreation Master Plan — a long-term strategy approved by City Council to revitalize parks across the city. The plan includes upgrades, expanded recreational amenities, and improvements intended to make parks more functional and welcoming for families.
However, Hillary explained that the Forsythe project is still approximately $25,000 short of full completion.
Forsythe Park has the potential to be one of Monroe’s most beautiful and inclusive gathering spaces. The goal now is ensuring that it is not only accessible — but safe.
Donations for the nonprofit raising money for this project can be made at:
John Clarke Perry Foundation on Venmo
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