CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio — Six-year-old Sebastian Nelson had a dream and took the first step to turn it into reality. In March 2023, the confident and gregarious Circleville Elementary first grader visited the Pickaway County Community Action Organization (PICCA) and met one-on-one with Executive Director Becky Hammond. His request was simple yet impactful: he wanted a playground near the Ohio Heights apartment where he lives with his mother, Paige Giffin, and three siblings.

“There is nothing for children to do, and a playground would be fun and benefit the community,” Sebastian told Hammond. He highlighted that many families at Ohio Heights and the nearby Lincoln Heights do not have transportation to get to Barthelmas Park, the closest playground, nearly a mile away. Children, he said, were also afraid to cross the busy Kingston Pike to reach the park.

Sebastian’s heartfelt plea touched Hammond and PICCA Housing Director Nicole Smith, inspiring them to create a playground on a 4,300-square-foot plot of land at Ohio Heights, which already included a small climbing and slide structure donated years ago.

Sebastian’s vision is beginning to materialize. On July 3, a new swing set was unveiled at the site, funded by PICCA’s operating budget, according to Smith. Meanwhile, PICCA is actively seeking grants and donations to complete the playground project, which could cost over $150,000.

The new swing set cost $12,000, and mulch for the area added another $2,100. PICCA also improved the chain-link fence surrounding the playground.

“We’re determined to make it happen for our families,” Hammond said. “This is merely the first step.”

At a small ribbon-cutting event on Wednesday afternoon, Nelson, now 7, was the first person to use the swing set, followed by his 10-year-old brother, Chase, and other children from the complex. The joy and sense of accomplishment on Sebastian’s face illustrated how one person—even a child—can make a significant difference in their community.

“We are just so thankful,” Giffin said. “The children will love this.”

As for Sebastian, when he is not swinging, he has big plans for his future, aiming to become a professional football player or president of the United States.

“He’s got big dreams,” Giffin said.

Those interested in donating to the Ohio Heights/Lincoln Heights Playground Project can contact Becky Hammond at (740) 477-1655, Ext. 1000, or via email at [email protected].