A 15-year-old Boy Scout has a vision to build a new commercial playground in Oquawka, Illinois.
Jarid Guyton, an 8th grader in Henderson County, proposed the plan in June of 2013. The project meets the requirements for his Eagle Scout Project, and the Boy Scout would earn that rank if the project is completed.
The park will cost about $70,000 to build, and Guyton said he has already raised half of that amount through fundraising.
"I wanted to do this because Oquawka doesn't have a commercial playground," Guyton explained. "The playground we have now is not safe. It's wooden and breaking down."
The new playground would feature toys and attractions that represent Henderson County history, including a slide named after Norma Jean, an elephant that was struck by lightening when the circus was in town back in 1972.
A few months ago, Guyton received a letter stating he was chosen to receive the Open Space Lands Acquisition Grant, supplying enough money to fund the remaining amount needed for the park.
But in March, Guyton received a different letter. His grant has been suspended due to Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner issuing a review on state-funded grants.
"I was upset," Guyton said.
Unsure whether or not he will receive the grant, the 15-year-old scout went back to the basics of fundraising. He said he's not giving up on his vision for the Oquawka park.
If you would like to donate to Guyton's project, click here.
Or, you can mail donations to PO Box 853, Oquawka, IL 61469.