Ankeny Named Playful City USA for Sixth Straight Year

Submitted by the city of Ankeny:

For the sixth consecutive year, KaBOOM! has named the City of Ankeny a Playful City USA community, according to a news release from the city.

was named one of 213 cities dedicated to creating innovative play spaces that improve the lives of the city’s youth and the neighborhoods in which they live, the release said.

Mayor Steve Van Oort credits Ankeny’s ranking to the effectiveness of community partnerships working to prioritize children’s health and active lifestyles.

“We are extremely proud that Ankeny has once again been honored by KaBOOM!,” said Van Oort in the news release. “It is through community partnerships and innovative practices that we continue our effort to create play spaces within walking distance of every child. This designation recognizes our commitment to Ankeny’s children and to citizens of all ages.”

The news release said KaBOOM! recognized Ankeny for its outstanding dedication to play, citing Ankeny’s annual All-City Play Day that strives to engage the entire community in a day of fun, playful activities.

Last year's event attracted over 1,500 residents, 60 volunteers and a variety of activities for residents of all ages. This year's All-City Play Day is scheduled for July 11 at Hawkeye and Wagner Parks from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

“Some of the most innovative concepts and cost-effective programs are being developed in Playful City USA communities,” says Darell Hammond, founder and CEO of KaBOOM! and author of The New York Times best-seller KaBOOM!: How One Man Built a Movement to Save Play. “Cities like Ankeny are key allies in the fight to combat the play deficit and serve as outstanding role models for government and community leaders across the country.”

Playful City USA celebrates and highlights these unique initiatives developed by communities across the country. A primary goal of Playful City USA is to encourage cities and towns to share ideas, concepts and programs in an effort to increase play opportunities for children.