With a shared vision of delivering special places that change the way our society plays, Variety will continue the partnership model established by Touched by Olivia, collaborating with communities, councils and developers to build Variety Livvi’s Place playspaces.
Touched by Olivia was formed in 2006 by John and Justine Perkins, with a mission to create healthier and happier lives for kids by creating inclusive playspaces across Australia. The partnership with Variety will help build on the existing network of 30 playspaces already in place around the country.
“The partnership between Variety and Touched by Olivia is a perfect fit. With children and their families at the very heart of all we do, it’s heart-warming to meet another charity with a shared passion to deliver inclusion through play to Australian communities. This partnership is a wonderful example of organisations coming together for the greater good and we are excited about how much more we can achieve together,” says Touched by Olivia co-founder Justine Perkins.
Livvi’s Place Playspace, Craigieburn VIC
The collaboration will continue Variety’s active involvement in inclusive play over the years, and will help accelerate the vision of all communities having access to an inclusive playspace
“Inclusion is central to Variety’s mission of giving kids a fair go. Whether it’s a wheelchair for a child with a physical disability, or a Sunshine Coach for a school to get their kids out in to the community, we are providing the opportunity for kids to be included,” claims David Sexton, Variety: the Children’s Charity NSW/ACT CEO.
“We’re thrilled to be able to build on the wonderful work of Touched by Olivia, by creating special places where thousands of kids and parents of all abilities and ages can play side by side.”
A Variety Livvi’s Place was officially opened in Bankstown on 28 September 2018, with additional playspaces in planning and construction in Taree, Glenfield, Blacktown and Young.
Livvi’s Place Playspace, Marion SA. Image © Kevin Fallon
For more information go to www.variety.org.au/nsw/individual-or-community/