The Child Learning Center in the department of speech, language and hearing sciences at CU-Â鶹¹ÙÍø has completed construction of a new classroom loft donated by the Flatirons Kiwanis Club in Â鶹¹ÙÍø.
In 1996 the Flatirons and the Foothills Kiwanis Clubs merged and the Flatirons club donated its remaining funds to build the loft in the Child Leaning Center. The loft is in memory of Everett Luce and Les Grote, two former Flatirons Kiwanians who volunteered much of their time and energy to the children at the center.
The loft was designed by Linda Martin, a child development specialist, and the CLC staff. It is accessible to children with a wide range of abilities. The loft includes a ramp and ladder, and can be transformed into a library, dramatic play area, puppet stage and whatever the children want to create.
All construction of the loft was done by Kiwanis Club members.
"The loft adds a whole different look and feel to the classroom," said Sue McCord, coordinator of early childhood programs at the Child Learning Center. "It's nice for the kids to have a chance to feel like there is a fun place where they can climb above adults."
Kiwanis Club members have devoted much of their attention to the CLC for almost 15 years. Members built the playground structure, swing set and sandboxes. They also dug a garden, created hand-made blocks, supplied scrap wood for projects and hung a zipline, a ride that allows children to hang on a trolley device as it glides down a cable strung between two trees.
CLC administrators have recognized Ken Criswell, Lloyd Jones, Leonard Jones, Johnny Berndsen, Bob Mohling, Waverly Person and Jay Cavanaugh for their loyal commitment to the center.