The Cindy Miles Adaptive Fund Transforms Play for Children of All Abilities

The Cindy Miles Adaptive Fund (CMAF), established in February 2023, is committed to creating an inclusive playground in Northampton, Pennsylvania. This initiative honors the legacy of Cindy Miles, a visionary in pediatric physical therapy who passionately advocated for accessible fitness and fun for individuals of all abilities.

Miles dedicated over 45 years to the physical therapy community, significantly impacting countless families through her practice and teachings. She served as president of the American Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy for six years and owned a private practice in Whitehall, PA. Cindy’s unwavering belief in the power of movement and fitness for all led her to advocate for adaptive physical activities, ensuring that individuals, regardless of ability, could reach their full potential.

In alignment with Cindy’s vision, CMAF is working on developing a 10,000-square-foot inclusive playground at the 4th Street Park in Northampton. This playground is designed to be a welcoming space where children of all abilities can play, learn, and grow together. Features will include wheelchair-accessible ramps, adaptive swings, and sensory-rich equipment, fostering an environment that promotes physical activity and social interaction among all children and their families.

Several initiatives have been launched to support the playground project:

• Miles for Kids: An annual fun run, walk, and roll event that encourages community participation and raises awareness about the importance of inclusive play.
• Cindy’s 45 Team: A membership program where participants commit to exercising at least 45 minutes per week for a yearly fee of $45, promoting fitness and supporting the fund’s mission.
• Buy a Brick: A commemorative program allowing supporters to purchase personalized bricks, which will be incorporated into the playground’s design, honoring loved ones or marking special events.
• Online Store: CMAF apparel and accessories are available through their online store, with proceeds contributing to the playground’s development.

In the beginning, CMAF faced challenges in securing a location for the playground. After exploring options in Whitehall Township, the fund found a supportive partner in Northampton Borough. The borough’s council members and residents warmly embraced the project, reflecting the community’s commitment to inclusivity and honoring Cindy’s legacy.

The inclusive playground is poised to serve families throughout the Lehigh Valley, particularly those with children who have disabilities. With nearly 6% of local children and up to 11% of the entire population living with a disability, this playground will provide a much-needed space where everyone can engage in outdoor activities without barriers. By fostering an environment of acceptance and accessibility, CMAF aims to ensure that every child, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to play, learn, and thrive alongside their peers.

CMAF’s dedication to this cause shows the power of community collaboration in creating spaces that celebrate diversity and promote inclusivity. Through their unwavering efforts, Cindy Miles’ vision of fun and fitness for all is becoming a reality, enriching the lives of countless families in Northampton and beyond.

To Help Support this fund, please visit: Cindy Miles Adaptive Fund – Humanitarian Social Innovations