WEST HARTFORD –The Mandell JCC is set to receive $500,000 in the form of a Bonding Cash Grant from the State of Connecticut as funding for the rebuilding of Jonathan’s Dream Reimagined. The original Jonathan’s Dream was built in 1996 as the first Boundless Playground and accessible to children of all abilities.

Jonathan’s Dream was originally developed in 1996 by West Hartford residents Amy and Peter Barzach, to celebrate the life and memory of their son, Jonathan. The first of its kind, the playground was designed to accommodate all children, regardless of their physical abilities. Jonathan’s Dream Reimagined will feature new and innovative equipment and experiences that enable children of all ages and abilities to discover, many for the first time, the freedom of playing together without limitations.

“I know the project, and it’s a great project,” said Governor Dan Malloy, who was among a team of local legislators brought together with the help of Robert Fishman, executive director of the Jewish Federation Association of CT, to support the project. Other legislators whose efforts helped ensure funding for the project included State Senators Beth Bye and Carlo Leone, and State Representatives David Baram, Brian Becker, and Andrew Fleischmann.

According to JCC Executive Director David Jacobs, the legislators “will remain invested in Jonathan’s Dream, working to make sure more money is set aside to support the inclusive playground in the future.”

Jacobs also acknowledged “the continued efforts and passion” of the project’s volunteer coordinator, Ronit Shoham.

For more information visit jonathansdreamreimagined.org.

CAP: (l to r) Jonathan’s Dream Reimagined Volunteer Coordintor Ronit Shoham, Gov. Dan Malloy and JFACT Executive Director Bob Fishman at the announcement of the award of a state grant in support of the project.