A message from Valpo Parks Director Kevin Nuppnau: A tradition reborn

In 1994, Valpo Parks and hundreds of community volunteers came together to build the beloved ValPlayso playground. The unique wooden structure instantly became a favorite for children across our community. In addition to the playground itself, kids had the opportunity to leave their mark on a handprint wall, creating a lasting impression.

That wall is still standing today, 31 years later. Over the years, more than 200 tiles have been lost to weather, wear, or vandalism. This summer, our skilled Valpo Parks maintenance staff spent countless hours carefully restoring the wall, replacing the broken or missing tiles with new, blank ones.

Valpo Parks is excited to announce that rather than leaving those spaces empty, we’ve chosen to offer today’s children the same opportunity to leave their mark on the wall, just as I, and so many others did three decades ago. This project will link the past with the present and allow the youngest generation to become an important part of ValPlayso’s history.

Beginning on Monday, September 15th at 9 am CST, community members can reserve a spot on the ValPlayso handprint wall for their child. To reserve a spot for your little one (ages 12 and under), simply click the link below and follow the prompts.

Each handprint costs $50, and all proceeds will go towards shade umbrellas for the playground. By participating, you’re not only giving your child a chance to leave a lasting mark, but you’re also helping to enhance the park for everyone.

This project is a perfect example of how Valpo Parks strives to honor our past while building a better future, with you.

Yours in parks,

Kevin Nuppnau
Director

Reserve your tile here!