Children in Ottawa’s Parkwood Hills now have a new play structure to enjoy, thanks to the PCL Hard Hat Heroes fund. An initiative between PCL Constructors Canada Inc. and United Way Ottawa, the fund builds capital projects to improve Ottawa neighbourhoods.
“The Hard Hat Heroes fund was really a natural fit and a wonderful way for our employees and company to give back to the communities we work in,” said Emily Parent, senior accounting manager for PCL Constructors Canada Inc. “It’s incredible to see our first project come to life and know that families are enjoying it.”
In Parkwood Hills, 9 per cent of the residents are children younger than nine-years-old and 18.5 per cent of residents live in single-parent homes. Because of this, local and affordable activities for families are essential.
The new play structure at Inverness Park also received matching funds from the City of Ottawa, and support from the Nepean, Rideau & Osgoode Community Resource Centre.
“Children need a safe, fun environment to play, learn, and grow,” said Sandy Wooley, Executive Director, Nepean, Rideau & Osgoode Community Resource Centre. “The new play structure at Inverness Park will provide children and youth with increased access to healthy recreation opportunities, and provide a space for community residents to come together and connect with their neighbours.”
Community centres and parks are essential neighbourhood hubs. PCL Hard Hat Heroes projects will bring together communities through physical improvement projects to buildings, public spaces, facilities, and public art.
“PCL Constructors Canada Inc. and its employees are making an incredible difference in our community,” said Michael Allen, President and CEO, United Way Ottawa. “The Hard Hat Heroes fund is a great example of an organization using its team’s generosity and expertise to change lives in our community.”
In the coming months, the Hard Hat Heroes fund will unveil a gazebo in Golden Manor to give seniors in that neighbourhood a shared space to connect and build a sense of community.
Learn more at UnitedWayOttawa.ca.
