PRT - David Boone Advisory Award

 Our Executive Team was recently honored by The City of Rock Hill's Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Department at their annual Volunteer Dinner. This is what they had to say about our team:

This committee and its partners has imagined, fundraised, developed and built Miracle Park phase one which opened in September of 2021. In 2022, they have continued to fundraise and plan for phase two. They have put their hearts, soul and hard work into making Miracle Park not only a dream but a reality that has become a destination for families, seniors and youth of all abilities.

In 2016, one of these members traveled to Greenville to watch his nephew play in a Miracle League game. That was the inspiration he needed to come back and discuss with family and friends his idea of building a miracle field in Rock Hill. Having grown up playing sports and now with his children being involved in sports he knew Rock Hill needed a field for athletes of all abilities to play. It didn’t take long for them to begin the implementation of this idea. Connections were made and others jumped at the chance to be involved in something so great. A committee was formed…a builder, a developer, a fundraiser, community leaders…a meeting was held with York County disabilities foundation members, sports commission members, city staff members, more community leaders and from there, the possibilities continued. The idea was brought forth to put the field on property that already held a city park. Additionally, Winthrop University was approached about the adjacent property. Through many discussions and meetings and nearly a year later, a public/ private partnership was formed.

Years later and millions of dollars raised, this field became not just a field but an entire park. Through so many efforts, the first phase included an all-inclusive playground with innovative play equipment, restrooms, an office and concessions building, a multi-purpose field and of course the Miracle Field. This group made sure to go beyond the norm and complete the requirements needed to be awarded universal design standards. The second and third phases are being planned and will be just as exciting as the first.

The park has thousand of visitors a month. From Miracle League, Benji Ball, youth softball games, playground time, story time, the Book Mobile, kite flying, kickball, many more events and programs the park is busting at the seams. If you have been there, you know. What a wonderful sight!!

This committee has worked tirelessly to host events and fundraisers to benefit the park. They have been instrumental in getting the community involved throughout the whole process. Their dedication and time has been one that has built a place where everyone belongs and no matter your ability…you have a place to play.

I’d like to present the David Boone Advisory Award to the Miracle Park Executive Committee. This committee includes David Williams, Alice Davis, Warren Norman, Kennedi Christopher, Kylie Carroll, John Taylor, Michelle Schaffer, Sig Huitt and Jack Leitner.

We are very thankful to the PRT team for all they do for Miracle Park and are honored to accept this award!