Florence Parks and Recreation Department is being honored with a 2015 Playful City USA designation for the first time. The national recognition program honors cities and towns across the country for making their communities more playable. The Town of Florence Parks and Recreation Department is one of only 241 cities and towns nationwide, which received the Playful City USA designation.

Florence Mayor Tom Rankin explained the importance of this national recognition and the need for parks and recreation services in our community. “The Town of Florence is committed to the importance of maximizing the quality of life for our residents through quality, accessible recreation programs, parks and facilities. The Town Council acknowledges our role and the importance that playability has in the development of our children and we are committed to developing parks and playgrounds in all areas of our Town.”

The program is sponsored by the Humana Foundation in partnership with KaBoom! – a national non-profit dedicated to children receiving balanced, daily active play. This program recognizes and honors communities which “make play a priority…and “demonstrate a commitment to ensuring all kids get the balance of play” necessary to their physical and social developments.

Some of the selection criteria focused on community partnerships, infrastructure investments and a dedication to the social and physical benefits of active play for children.

Besides national recognition for a successful application, Playful City USA communities become eligible to apply for grants and playgrounds that support targeted programs and infrastructure in Florence