United Services receives Cuivre River grant for Dardenne Prairie play area

United Services of St. Charles County received a $5,000 Operation Round Up grant for the renovation and expansion of the outdoor play area at their United Services-West facility located in Dardenne Prairie.

“We are grateful for the many ways that the Cuivre River Electric Community Trust supports our organization. Their commitment to investing in young children gives agencies like United Services the ability to help the children we serve to meet their fullest potential,” said Denise Liebel, United Services president and CEO. “In partnership with Cuivre River’s Operation Round Up, we are paving the way for their future success.”

Operation Round Up has supported United Services mission, facilities and programs at locations in St. Peters and Dardenne Prairie with more than $95,000 in grants since 1997.

“The Cuivre River Electric Community Trust has been a strong advocate of our programs for many years,” said Leslie Tucker, United Services site director-west. “There is an immense need to provide services for children of all abilities. This includes outdoor facilities that are beneficial to a child’s development.”

The enclosed outdoor play area renovation will feature pored-in-place safety surfacing under the playground structures.

“The rubber surface provides greater access to children using wheelchairs, walkers and other types of adaptive equipment because the surface is smooth and without obstacles,” Tucker said. “Additionally, providing a safe environment is an important component for our programs at United Services and the pored-in-place material exceeds industry standards.”

United Services is a private, not-for-profit education and therapeutic center for children with special needs. More than 330 children from 6 weeks to 6-years old attend United Services-West. Special Education services and therapies are offered in an inclusive environment, with children learning and playing alongside typically developing peers. Extended care services are offered on-site, also serving 6 weeks through kindergarten age. Services include special education, preschool, speech, physical and occupational therapies, extendeed care and family support programs. For more information on United Services visit www.unitedsrvcs.org or call 926.2700.