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 3, 2020
Why KABOOM! evolved in order to more boldly and clearly reflect our commitment to playspace equity.
January 17, 2021
Black children, who want nothing more than to run, jump, play and belong, continue to live in a very different America than their white counterparts.
October 11, 2022
We are committed to supporting kids’ wholistic health, recently we took two important steps toward strengthening the mental and physical health of children, families, and communities.