The Ethridge Inclusive Playground

It was the long term vision of our former Pastor Emeritus Rev. Dr. Glenn Ethridge and his wife Cathy Ethridge to build a playground especially suited for children with disabilities. In July 2020, Glenn and Cathy set up a fund at Oak Grove for the “Ethridge Inclusive Playground” and asked that people donate to this playground in memory of Glenn.

The Ethridge Inclusive Playground Committee is pleased to share this project with the church and community to fulfill the Ethridges’ vision for a neighborhood playground where children of all abilities can play together.

The Committee has worked together with Landscape Structures and Playground Creations to design an Inclusive Playground to be installed in a portion of the Oak Grove Park. The playground was dedicated and opened in March 2022.

If you would like to hold a gathering 
at the park, please notify us of your intent to do so by filling out the playground intent form at: 
ogumc.org/reservations/room-reservation/ or email Executive Director Dale Smith dsmith@ogumc.org for more info.

The public phase of fundraising began in September 2021. The memorial gifts after Glenn’s passing and contributions this Fall have raised over $150,000 and Oak Grove has secured an additional matching gift of $150,000. As of 2023, less than $45,000 of the $600,000 cost remains of this robust and unique community project. Many thanks to those who have already given and to the Committee for their work!

If you would like to contribute to the Playground please do so at ogumc.org/donate by selecting “Ethridge Playground” in the drop-down fund menu or dropping off a check at the church marking “Ethridge Playground” in the memo line.

Thank you for supporting the Ethridge Inclusive Playground.

Additional contact: Dr. Beth LaRocca-Pitts (blarocca-pitts@ogumc.org) or Cathy Ethridge (cathyethridge18@gmail.com).