ROCK HILL, S.C. — Novant Health has announced a $150,000 partnership with Rock Hill’s Miracle Park, the first park in the world to receive a Global Universal Design (GUDC) certification. This investment marks a major milestone in Novant Health’s initiative to foster more inclusive, healthy communities throughout the greater Charlotte and South Carolina regions.
A Hub for Global Inclusivity
Located at 1005 Eden Terrace, Miracle Park is a 15-acre facility specifically designed to eliminate physical and social barriers for families and children of all ability levels. Its innovative layout earned it the prestigious Global Universal Design Gold Certification from the Global Universal Design Commission (GUDC), which recognizes spaces that exceed basic accessibility standards to create truly usable environments for everyone, regardless of age or background.
The park features several high-tech and sensory-rich amenities, including:
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Miracle League Fields: Specifically designed baseball fields with rubberized surfaces to ensure wheelchair accessibility.
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Inclusive Playground: A state-of-the-art play area featuring sensory pods, interactive music zones, and adaptive swings.
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Future Developments: Upcoming phases include a multi-purpose field for sports like soccer and kickball, an adaptive challenge course, and a retail space intended to provide local employment opportunities for individuals with different abilities.
Shared Vision for Community Wellness
Novant Health’s leadership emphasized that health extends beyond traditional clinical settings. “We believe health is shaped not only in doctors’ offices and hospitals, but in the places where people live, play and connect,” said Dr. Sid Fletcher, senior vice president and president of Novant Health’s greater Charlotte region.
The $150,000 investment is aimed at supporting Miracle Park’s mission to provide joyful, accessible outdoor experiences while advancing Novant Health’s goal of building remarkable futures for the community.
Alice Davis, a board member for Miracle Park, noted that the park serves as a “powerful statement” about community value and inclusion. The facility is operated and maintained by the City of Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department through a public-private partnership with the York County Disabilities Foundation.
For more information on the park’s amenities and upcoming events, community members are encouraged to visit miracleparkrockhill.com.
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