Help Fund Virginia's Fun and Family-Friendly Splash Pad

Summer in Virginia can get hot and sticky, especially for families looking for safe and enjoyable ways to cool off. A splash pad offers a perfect solution: a water play area where kids can run, splash, and laugh without the risks of a pool. But building a splash pad takes more than just enthusiasm—it requires funding, planning, and community support. This post explores why Virginia needs a splash pad, how it benefits families, and how you can help bring this fun and family-friendly project to life.

The City has received a $500,000 MPCA Grant to start off the project, but we need to fundraise to get this project to completion! Consider donating today at https://www.communitygiving.org/fund/virginia-splash-pad-fund/

Proposed Splash pad with water jets in Virginia, MN

Why Virginia Needs a Splash Pad

Minnesota's warm summers can be challenging for families with young children. Swimming beaches require supervision, swimming skills, and can pose safety concerns. Splash pads provide a safer alternative where children of all ages can enjoy water play without standing water or deep pools.

Splash pads also offer:

• Accessibility: They are wheelchair-friendly and inclusive for children with different abilities.

• Low maintenance: Unlike pools, splash pads don’t require lifeguards or complex filtration systems.

• Community gathering spots: They encourage families to spend time outdoors, fostering social connections.

  
  

Virginia currently lacks options for children and adults to cool down in an affordable, safe way. Adding a splash pad would fill this gap and create a welcoming space for families to cool down and enjoy quality time together.

Benefits for Families and the Community

A splash pad is more than just a play area. It promotes physical activity, social interaction, and community well-being.

Physical Health

Water play encourages children to move, run, and jump, helping develop motor skills and coordination. It also provides a refreshing way to stay active during hot weather, reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Social Connections

Splash pads bring families together, creating opportunities for parents and children to meet neighbors and make friends. These spaces often become hubs for community events, birthday parties, and casual gatherings.

Economic Impact

Splash pads can boost local economies by attracting visitors who spend money at nearby shops and restaurants. They also increase the appeal of neighborhoods, potentially raising property values and encouraging new residents.

What Makes a Splash Pad Family-Friendly?

Designing a splash pad that truly serves families means considering safety, accessibility, and fun features.

• Safe surfaces: Non-slip, cushioned ground prevents injuries.

• Varied water features: Jets, fountains, and sprays that cater to different ages and preferences.

• Shaded areas: Seating and shade structures protect parents and kids from the sun.

• Restroom access: Nearby facilities improve convenience.

• Seating and picnic spots: Spaces for families to relax and enjoy snacks.

  
  

Including these elements ensures the splash pad is welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.

How the Splash Pad Project Will Work

The plan for Virginia’s splash pad involves several key steps:

1. Site selection: The site on Silver Lake was chosen as it is a central, accessible location in a community park.

2. Design and planning: We have been collaborating with landscape architects and community members to create a safe, fun layout.

3. Fundraising: We are now actively working on gathering funds through grants, donations, and community events to make this project a reality!

4. Construction: Once funds have been secured, the City can begin to hire contractors to build the splash pad with durable, eco-friendly materials.

5. Opening and maintenance: Launching the splash pad with a community celebration is the goal! Setting up ongoing care will be done through a partnership with City and local volunteer groups.

   
   

Each phase depends on community involvement and financial support.

How You Can Help Fund the Splash Pad

Funding is the biggest hurdle for this project. Here are ways you can contribute:

• Consider Donating Online: The Virginia Community Foundation, a known and trusted partner in our community, has agreed to hold the fund for the SplashPad project. Please consider donating today! Small or large donations add up quickly.

• Attend fundraising events: Starting in early 2026, we will hold a series of fundraiser to help bring awareness and fundraise for this project. Consider volunteering or donating!

• Sponsor a feature: Businesses or families can sponsor water jets, benches, or shade structures. If you are interested in being a sponsor, please contact Jared at revivevirginia@gmail.com so we can discuss how we can best partner on this project!

• Spread the word: Share information with friends, neighbors, and social groups.

• Volunteer time: Help organize fundraising events or assist with planning.

  
  

Every bit of support brings the splash pad closer to reality.

Examples of Successful Splash Pads

Other communities have seen great success with splash pads. For instance:

• Aurora, MN: The SplashPad in Aurora attracts hundreds of visitors each summer to the Pine Grove Park as a safe, convenient way to cool down! Due to the generosity and hard work of the non profit "Caring for the Kids Community", the City of Aurora splash pad was installed in Pine Grove Park in 2021.

• Chisholm MN: The Chisholm Kiwanis SplashPad in Memorial Park provides a safe, free water play area that has become a neighborhood favorite. The Kiwanis partnered with many businesses and organizations to make the Splash Pad a reality. Check out the sign at the Splash Pad Park which lists all of the donors and helpers on the project! 

• Hibbing, MN: The splash pad at Bennett Park merges nature trails with water activities, promoting outdoor adventure. This 34-acre park integrates contemporary amenities like a splash pad with trails, playground elements, and sports fields. Established in the 1920s, it is one of Hibbing's oldest parks.

  
  

These examples show how splash pads can enhance community life and provide lasting benefits.

What Families Can Expect Once the Splash Pad Opens

When the splash pad opens, families can look forward to:

• Safe, supervised water play without the need for swim lessons.

• Free or low-cost access, making summer fun affordable.

• Regular community events like splash parties and family days.

• A clean, well-maintained space designed with children’s safety in mind.

• Opportunities to meet other families and build friendships.

  
  

The splash pad will be a place where memories are made and summer days are brighter.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Our area families deserve a safe, fun, and accessible way to beat the summer heat. A splash pad offers exactly that—a place where children can play freely, parents can relax, and communities can come together. The project depends on community support to move forward.

If you want to help fund Virginia’s splash pad, consider donating, volunteering, or spreading the word. Together, we can build a space that brings joy and refreshment to families for years to come.

Let’s make this summer splash-tastic for Virginia’s children! Consider donating today!