"Brandon's Playground" 

Once a "VISION" now a "REALITY"

Brandon Sims, a nine year old student of the Arkansas School For the Blind approached the Gravel Ridge Lions Club and ask them to build a new playground for his school. 

 The playground equipment they had was old and in bad need of repair. 

Brandon had been around Lions all his life and had seen miracles happen when Lions get involved and had no doubt in his mind that it could be done! 

Brandon did not stop with just one club.  He and his aunt and uncle (Lions John and Wanda Barnett) went to many clubs where he made the same request and before long  the money started coming in. 

Brandons Aunt, PDG Wanda applied for grants, set up donation jars, and spread the word to everyone she came in contact with.  This became a statewide project. 

It was going to take a minimum of $30,000 dollars to purchase the equipment. It was hard to believe that in less than ONE year, the funds were collected. 

Once the equipment arrived the call went out to all Lions that help was needed in assembly.  Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, from early in the morning till the sun quit shining, Lions worked diligently to get the job done.  

We would like to thank everyone who made monetary donations and for those who took time to come out and help a "DREAM COME TRUE" for so many deserving young boys and girls who will by the end of March have a brand new playground built with love and dedication by the

LIONS OF ARKANSAS !!!!!