Ambetter Health has announced the completion of a new playground at Southeast Park in Hialeah, Florida. The project was accomplished in one day on January 30, with over 100 volunteers from Ambetter Health, KABOOM!, and the City of Hialeah working together to build playground equipment, add landscaping, and create seating areas. The new facility is intended to provide children in the community with safe outdoor recreation and social opportunities.
Charlene Zein, President and CEO of Ambetter Health Florida and Sunshine Health, said, “It was incredibly meaningful to see more than 100 company volunteers come together to bring this playground to life. We’re proud to support a project that brings joy and encourages healthier, active lifestyles for children throughout the community.”
This marks the second time Ambetter Health has collaborated with KABOOM! and the City of Hialeah on such an initiative. Lysa Ratliff, CEO of KABOOM!, commented on the ongoing partnership: “We are proud to once again partner with the City of Hialeah and Ambetter Health to create a kid-designed playspace at Southeast Park, building on the success of our 2019 playground build at Bucky Dent Park. This playspace will spark joy, connection, and belonging for generations of children. In our 30th year, this build is a powerful reminder that when we invest in play, we invest in our kids’ health, happiness, and futures.”
Hialeah Mayor Bryan Calvo also acknowledged those involved: “This playground is an investment in our children’s health and happiness. Thanks to the incredible volunteers who helped bring this vision to life and I’m grateful to our partners KABOOM! and Ambetter Health for providing a safe and vibrant green space at Southeast Park where children can play and grow.”
Ambetter Health operates through the federal Health Insurance Marketplace serving underserved populations in Florida. The City of Hialeah is known as “The City of Progress,” home to more than 233,000 residents within about 20 square miles in northwest Miami-Dade County. Over 94% of its population identifies as Hispanic.
KABOOM! is a national nonprofit focused on addressing disparities in access to quality play spaces across communities in the United States. In its three decades of work, it has partnered with various groups nationwide aiming for equitable access for all children.
