Thorntown, Ind— A new interactive trail has been added to Tom Johnson Memorial Park in Thorntown. The trail was funded by the MIBOR Realtor Association’s Regional Placemaking Micro-grant program.
The Born Learning Trail is a series of 10 interactive signs that offer fun, interactive learning activities for young children and their families. The activity stations are focused on boosting children’s language and literacy skills and have been placed along the walking path that encircles the park.
“Recognizing the value early learning experiences have on our children’s successes, this trail will engage our community using everyday moments outdoors to boost school readiness, imagination, and fun,” said Angie Moody, Town of Thorntown Community Development & Parks Department Director. “We are thrilled to add the Born Learning Trail to the Tom Johnson Memorial Park and are thankful for the partnership with MIBOR on this project.”
The MIBOR Realtor Association’s $2,169 grant provided the trail signage and supplies to complete the Born Learning Trail. The signs were installed and activity stations painted during the Boone EDC’s Day of Service on October 8 by MIBOR members, Thorntown Parks volunteers, and Boone EDC staff. The Day of Service was an opportunity to connect Boone County’s businesses with local non-profits’ projects.
“MIBOR recognizes the value of placemaking in economic development and has invested in several projects across the region,” said Lee Ann Balta, Boone County MIBOR Division Chair. “As Realtors, lenders, and affiliate service providers, MIBOR was eager to partner with our local Boone County members and the Town of Thorntown on this initiative, and we look forward to seeing families enjoy the Born Learning Trail for years to come.”
“The combined effort of this grant and the unique activity trail is one of the ways we can continue to increase the quality of life in Boone County,” said Amy Hammerle, Boone EDC’s Workforce & Community Development Manager. “Placemaking amenities like the Born Learning Trail play a direct role in our economic development efforts and will make our community an even more desirable place for businesses and residents to locate.”
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Media Contact:
Chassity Neckers
317.995.3207
chassity@betterinboone.org