This conversation might be closed, but I wanted to include another resource for your playground fundraisers & grants. When reviewing the specific "manufacturer's grants", make certain that it isn't just a discount disguised as a grant. You'll find that most manufacturer's are willing to extend discounts w/out binding you into purchasing a specific model.
I have to admit I did not read all of the above posts, however, Lowes does give grants for playground equipment. Give it a try, you have nothing to loose
We were in a similar situation and with this mess of an economy, we decided to keep our climbing equipment for a few more years and paint down games on our blacktop. We used a company called Creative Pavement Stencils, I think there website was
Creative Pavement Stencils
and for a few hundred dollars we purchased really easy stencils that made the kids really active - they use the games more than the climbing equipment!! What was different from other stencil company was they had really colorful and unique designs, and their stencils were plastic, reusable, werent made of numerous peices and we didnt have to buy fancy striping machines. THey just rolled out and we painted. If they fade over the years, we have stored the stencils so we are set.
The U.S. Department of Education's Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools offers a competitive grant program entitled the Carol M. White Physical Education Program (PEP).
The Carol M. White Physical Education Program provides grants to community-based organizations to initiate, expand, or enhance physical education programs, including after-school programs, for students in kindergarten through 12th grade.
Grant recipients must implement programs that help students make progress toward meeting state standards. Funds may be used to provide equipment and support to enable students to participate actively in physical education activities. Funds also may support staff and teacher training and education.
