A new bench swing was recently installed at Veteran’s Memorial Park.  In a benevolent gesture for the community, Val Dodson graciously donated the swing which is dedicated, “For the citizens of Dawson County from Granny, Luke and Val.” 

The gift is a first for Veteran’s Memorial Park.  The successful beautification program at Rock Creek, initiated by the Dawson Woman’s Club, has grown beyond its boundaries. 

Val was inspired by fond memories of visiting the park with lifelong friend and Dawson resident, Joyce Maddox. On many occasions, they brought Joyce’s grandson Luke Wilkins to the park for picnic lunches and playtime. Val and Luke specifically selected Veteran’s Memorial Park to receive the swing. 

Luke also remembers coming to the park.  He explains, “My Granny had a hurt back and when we came here there was no place for her to sit while I played.”

Eight year old Luke thinks placing the swing in the park will help others to “live a little longer” and have a place to relax while enjoying the park.   "My Val and I don't want other grannies with hurt backs to have to stand."

Additionally, the Dawson County Park Board has “invested in picnic tables for Veteran’s Memorial Park to coordinate with the color scheme of the swing Val selected,” said Parks and Recreation Assistant Director Lisa Henson. 

Dawson County Recreation and Community Activities Director Barb Baptista is excited about the contribution.   “People donate their time or other means to fulfill a personal mission, to leave a legacy, or to perhaps recognize and celebrate the life of someone. They may or may not realize that they are ‘connecting the dots’ and becoming agents for community impact,” she said.   “I feel honored by every request that the Recreation and Community Activities Department receives; to be the conduit of citizens’ wishes and act as the stewards of their gift.” 

How can you impact your community?  “Opportunities are endless,” declares Barb Baptista. “Some options?  Volunteer your time coaching; commit to delivering a meal route once a week for a homebound senior; share your talents by teaching a one-time class at the Senior Center.”

 “We welcome donations for the purchase of park grills friendly to those with mobility limitations, individual pieces of playground equipment (such as an accessible swing), benches, recycling stations, picnic tables, or fitness stations by a trail,” Baptista continued.  “These are just a few ways that individuals can choose to ‘connect the dots.’”

Val is happy to contribute the swing.  “I hope that other citizens will use this park as a place to memorialize or celebrate persons close to them by purchasing a bench or a swing,” she said.

For more information on contributing to the parks, please call Barb Baptista at 706-344-3646 or email bbaptista@dawsoncounty.org.