September 22, 2018
In May 2013, Oklahoma was devastated by tornado outbreaks, including an EF5 tornado – the most powerful classification – that ripped through Moore, completely leveling parts of the community. Entire houses were gone. Schools were destroyed. Briarwood Elementary itself sustained major structural damage and had to be completely demolished.
With the help of donors and KABOOM! staff, the community came together in droves, barriers were broken, and willing hands from all walks of life wielded ratchets, pounded hammers, and carried posts. In total we built 5 playgrounds in the Moore area between 2013 and 2014, and awarded two Imagination Playgrounds.
The build at Briarwood is fondly remembered. Teachers from the school were out dancing to get people moving in the morning; parents were moving mulch. Their sense of resilience really shone through that day. Over 200 volunteers showed up to ensure kids in Moore could play again. Countless more showed up for the other builds as well.
March 21, 2024
Last week, President Biden released his FY 25 Budget proposal, kicking off federal budget negotiations. While this is not a final document, it is indicative of the Administration’s priorities for the remainder of the year.
December 20, 2022
After the unthinkable tragedy at Robb Elementary School on May 24, 2022 the City of Uvalde, KABOOM!, and the Archewell Foundation to joined together to unite the community in a positive way. Learn more about how Uvalde is healing through community service.
January 12, 2023
Lysa Ratliff, KABOOM!'s CEO, is serving as an At-Large Member of Maryland Governor-Elect Wes Moore's Transition Team. Read the comments she submitted to the incoming Administration on the importance of introducing a mandatory recess policy in the State of Maryland.