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The installation of a new Communication Board at Kiwanis Park, designed to support non-speaking and minimally verbal children, promoting inclusive play for all families was dedicated recently by the Town of Rutherfordton. The Communication Board is a project of Channing's Joy Foundation and funded through a generous donation made in memory of Lois and RuAnn Moore. The board provides children with an accessible, visual way to express needs, share ideas, and engage with others while enjoying Kiwanis Park. Using symbols and images, the board empowers children who may have difficulty with spoken language to communicate more confidently with caregivers, peers, and the broader community. The board is also fully bilingual, adding an extra element of accessibility. Channing's Joy is a nonprofit with local roots "dedicated to promoting inclusion and acceptance of autism and all individuals with special needs." Channing, the foundation's namesake, was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in 2018.
Located near the Kiwanis Park playground, the board is visible and welcoming to children and adults of all ability levels. In addition to the front-facing communication features, the back of the board is enhanced with meaningful artwork by Channing Flack and RuAnn Moore, making the installation especially personal.
"This Communication Board is a statement about who we want to be as a community and that Rutherfordton Parks are welcoming to everyone," said Lindy Abrams, with the Town of Rutherfordton's Parks, Recreation, and Arts Commission (PARC).
"A communication board in a park is more than a sign, it's my child's voice in a place that once felt out of reach. It also opens the door for conversation, inviting others to learn and understand. For our family, it means connection, inclusion, and the simple joy of truly belonging," said Lauren Flack, the founder of the Channing's Joy Foundation.
"Inclusion for differently abled children has always been a cause near and dear to my heart. Every child deserves the opportunity to enjoy the same experiences and opportunities as their peers. My grandmother, Lois Moore, advocated for RuAnn and so many others throughout her life. I am honored to be able to contribute to this cause in her memory," said Sarah Crain-McCracken.
The board was first introduced at an outreach event at Norris Public Library Storytime, as part of April Autism Awareness month, before being installed at its new home at Kiwanis Park.
The Town of Rutherfordton extends heartfelt thanks to the families involved, as well as community partners including Channing's Joy, Smarty Symbols and Sarah Crain-McCracken for their collaboration, creativity, and shared commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
