Help Me Build an Adaptive Playground for Archbishop Damiano School!

Hi everyone,

I’m Marc DiBartolomeo, and I’ve taken on a challenge that’s close to my heart—raising $10,000 to help build an adaptive playground for Archbishop Damiano School (ADS). This playground will provide a safe and accessible space for the amazing students at ADS, including my stepson, Dean.

Why This Matters
Dean is a student at ADS and lives with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS), a severe form of epilepsy that affects his daily life in many ways. It’s been tough, but ADS has been an incredible place for Dean to grow, learn, and be part of a supportive community. Now, the school is looking to create an adaptive playground where Dean and his classmates can play safely and enjoy the outdoors, something every child deserves.

About Archbishop Damiano School (ADS)
Archbishop Damiano School is a special education school in New Jersey, providing services to students ages 3-21 with intellectual and developmental disabilities. ADS offers individualized programming and therapeutic support to help students thrive. The school’s mission is to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child has the opportunity to learn, play, and grow.

You can learn more about the school and the playground project by watching this CBS3 segment: Click to Watch Here

I also made a video to share my journey, which you can watch here: Marc’s LinkedIn Video.

The Goal
ADS needs to raise $600,000 to complete this playground, and I’ve committed to raising $10,000 by running a 5K on January 1, 2024. For me, running a 5K might as well be a marathon because I’m not a runner by any means—but I’m doing it for Dean and for all the kids at ADS.

How You Can Help
I’m asking for your support. Whether it’s a small donation or spreading the word, every little bit helps us get closer to making this playground a reality. You can donate directly through my fundraising page: https://givebutter.com/Marc5K.

Let’s raise the funds needed so Dean and his classmates can enjoy a playground designed just for them. Together, we can make a real difference for these kids. Thank you so much for your support!

Best,
Marc DiBartolomeo

Marc DiBartolomeo's 5K Journey: Fundraising for an Adaptive Playground at Archbishop Damiano School

By Archbishop Damiano School

Marc DiBartolomeo's 5K Journey: Fundraising for an Adaptive Playground at Archbishop Damiano School

Help Us Create a Safe and Accessible Playground for the Students of ADS!