M a u i N e w s May 2, 2004

Volunteers to Build Kalakupua Playground

By Claudine San Nicolas

HAIKU - It's "barn-raising" time for the new Kalakupua Playground in Haiku where volunteers are raring to go. The project conceived by Upcountry parents will be built this month in just six days at Maui's 4th Marine Division Park.

"It's chicken without the head time now," said Alison Bridges, a publicity coordinator for the $200,000 project.

Dozens of volunteers have committed to the tasks, but dozens more are needed during the May 11-16 construction period. The project has raised about $130,000 so far, and fund-raising is expected to continue even after construction is complete.

Kalakupua's objectives include creating a safe, age-appropriate playground for young children. This particular project has incorporated ideas provided by Maui children like a giant octopus, a tree house, a children's amphitheater and a special area for toddlers.

The goal of a community-built playground like Kalakupua, which means magical in Hawaiian, is to bring people together to work side by side.

The project was designed by architect Bob Leathers, founder of Leathers and Associates, a national playground builder based in Ithaca, N.Y. Company representatives will be on site at all times during construction, and Kalakupua organizers have rallied for local professional help to assist in the project.

"Everything's in place," Bridges said.

Construction kicks off at 8 a.m. on May 11, and by 5 p.m. on May 16, a new playground will be finished, according to playground planners. Final approval is expected within seven days after construction by Leathers himself.

Local businesses have donated tools as well as food, and children in the Upcountry area have not only helped with design, but with publicity as well.

In the last week, for example, five Upcountry schools have joined forces to create different sections of a promotional mural that will read: "Help Us Build May 11-16."

The children have also worked on personalized thank you cards to give volunteers helping with the project.

All ages and skill levels are needed for carpentry, landscaping, child care, food service and general assistance. Bridges said the project needs more tools, and organizers have set aside money to repair any damaged tools.

Children and adults must wear covered shoes when helping. "It is a work site," Bridges said. Clogs, sandals or slippers will not be allowed.

Organizers recommend that volunteers leave their jewelry at home, but bring a sweater or light jacket and a hat to wear.

Volunteers are also asked to show up 15 minutes early, and encouraged to apply sunscreen before and during work. Shifts will run 8 a.m. to noon, 12:30 to 5 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. until sunset. Half-hour meal breaks are at noon and at 5 p.m.

Children 2 to 9 years old will be required to check in for child care. Youths 10 to 13 years old may work alongside a parent, who'll be responsible for the child's safety. Teenagers 14 to 17 years old may work independently, but may not use power tools.

Bridges said the weather will not stop construction.

"Rain or shine, we have to do this," she said.

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