The Leaps and Bounds Playground at A.C. Steere Park in Shreveport recently reopened, welcoming children and families to enjoy a space dedicated to inclusive play. This playground, notable for being the only one within a 100-mile radius designed specifically for children with disabilities, has a rich history intertwined with the dedication of local organizations and community partners, including SWEPCO and the SWEPCO Foundation.
The journey began in 1999 when Karen G. Gordon, the President of Right to Play, envisioned a playground where children of all abilities could play together. After hearing her proposal at a Shreveport City Council meeting, David Langston, Customer Experience Support Lead at SWEPCO, recognized the importance of this initiative and was eager to lend a hand.
“It’s essential that we create environments where every child can feel included and valued,” Langston said. “The Leaps and Bounds Playground embodies that spirit.”
In January 2005, the dream became a reality when SWEPCO employees joined forces with Right to Play to construct the playground. The efforts of volunteers were pivotal in transforming this vision into a vibrant space for children, equipped with swings, slides, and sensory play areas. SWEPCO employees have since coordinated cleanup days to maintain the playground's beauty. In addition, Langston and Customer Services Coordinator Twila Dunlap serve on the Right to Play Board of Directors.
This year, the City of Shreveport and Right to Play completed a $470,000 surface replacement project at the playground. Funded by the 2024 Bond, the capital operating budget, and generous donations to Right to Play, including a $25,000
Shreveport Councilman Jim Taliaferro, Mayor Tom Arceneaux, Karen Gordon and members of the Right to Play Inc. board, including SWEPCO employees Twila Dunlap and David Langston, and SPAR Director Shelly Ragle cut the ribbon reopening the A.C. Steere "Leaps and Bounds Playground," known as the Purple Park, after its resurfacing work on Aug. 14, 2025.
SWEPCO Foundation grant, the upgrades focused on replacing the aging surface with a new, safe, and accessible material. This improvement not only enhances safety but also extends the life of the playground, ensuring that children who use wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility devices can enjoy the equipment.
"The SWEPCO Foundation is proud to contribute $25,000 to this essential project,” said Brett Mattison, Vice President of the SWEPCO Foundation and SWEPCO President and COO. “By partnering with the City of Shreveport and Right to Play, we are helping to create a safer, more accessible playground that will serve the community for years to come. Every child deserves the opportunity to play, and we are proud to support inclusive environments that welcome all."
This resurfacing project ensures that our commitment to safe, inclusive play continues for years to come, Gordan said.
“We are deeply grateful to the City of Shreveport and our supporters for making this possible,” she said.
Families are encouraged to visit the newly revamped Leaps and Bounds Playground at A.C. Steere Park, located at 4009 Youree Drive, to experience the renewed commitment to accessible play.