Right photo: Representative Aaron Michlewitz, Lauren Cook and Commissioner Amy Kershaw. Left photo: Cathy E. Minehan and Lauren Cook
On Wednesday, September 18, it was a beautiful morning. Guests from all over Boston came to celebrate the Ellis Early Learning Park and its recent renovation. Located between Chandler and Tremont Streets, the Ellis playground has been loved by the community since its construction in 2007. In April 2024, Ellis embarked on some much-needed renovation: upgrades included replacing the play equipment to accommodate infants and toddlers, refurbishing the turf, and adding a beautiful mural of Boston’s Orange Line painted by Sasha Kouzza. The playground incorporates musical instruments, natural wood, and a platform to watch as the trains run below (a fan favorite!).
For children living in urban settings, running around Ellis Park could be their only chance to play outside safely. The park's renovations furthered our ability to provide quality educational experiences to all. Not only does the playground benefit Ellis children, but the park is open to the public, enhancing the richness of the South End community.
The event honored those who made the playground renovations possible: the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), the Baupost Group, and Cathy E. Minehan (former President and CEO of the Boston Federal Reserve). Attendees included Ellis board members, trustees, directors, and staff. We were privileged to hear remarks from Commissioner Amy Kershaw and Massachusetts State Representative Aaron Michlewitz. The two stressed the importance of investing in early education and the work needed to make it possible. They credited Ellis as the blueprint for providing equitable, quality childcare, making their jobs easier when looking for references.
In her speech, CEO Lauren Cook thanked the supporters saying, “This space is a great example of how individual, government and corporate giving can come together to make something magical,” Lauren said, “and shows how important it is to have green, safe, places for children to play.” The event concluded with children running through bubbles to enjoy the new playscape, and everyone left with smiles on their faces.
Ellis is thankful to the EEC, the Baupost Group, and Cathy Minehan for all they did to make the playground possible. The gates are now open to all and can be enjoyed year-round!
Right photo: Yesenia Gil, Drusilla Pratt-Otto, Theresa Jordan, Kira Wilke, Thu Phan and Daniel Vo. Middle photo: Sean Curran and David DesPrez. Left photo: Kim Lucas, Eugenia Soiles and Claire McNally
Photographs courtesy of Paige McWhorter Photography.
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