The Grange Foundation is proud to announce the award of a $1,000 National Grange Deaf Awareness Grant to Moosup Valley Grange #26, part of the Rhode Island State Grange, in support of its innovative project, “Play Beyond Words: A Day of Connection.”
This inclusive community event, scheduled to take place at Goddard Memorial State Park in Warwick, Rhode Island, will bring together children who are deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing for a day of integrated play, crafts, and celebration. The event aims to foster natural connections among children of all communication backgrounds while raising awareness of deaf culture and the mission of Rhode Island Hands & Voices.
“Play Beyond Words” stands out as a model of community engagement and deaf awareness. With interactive games using visual cues, storytelling in American Sign Language (ASL), a deaf magician, and an inclusive 3K “Silent Steps” fundraising walk/run, the event will not only provide a joyful experience for families—it will also advance understanding, inclusion, and friendship across communication differences.
“The Grange Foundation is especially proud to support this project’s commitment to accessibility, community outreach, and meaningful connection,” Grange Foundation President Chris Hamp said. “From ASL interpreters and CART services to visual signage and sensory-friendly spaces, the event exemplifies the goals of the Grange Deaf Awareness Program.”
“Our goal is simple but powerful: to show children and families that communication differences should never be a barrier to friendship,” said Makayla Piers, the grant applicant and event coordinator. “We’re grateful to the Grange Foundation for believing in this mission.”
“We are proud to support this effort of Moosup Valley Grange #26 for their vision and leadership in creating a more inclusive and connected community,” Hamp said. “We look forward to the stories, smiles, and impact this event will bring—and to the lasting connections that will grow beyond a single day of play.”