Brad and Louie Munson to Receive Presidential Accolades for Their Inspirational Volunteerism in Bringing Louie's Together Playground to Tomball
Tomball, TX - August 3, 2024 โ The Wise Up to Rise Up Foundation, dedicated to inspiring the next generation through community involvement and visionary thinking, is proud to announce that Brad Munson and his son, Louie Munson, will receive prestigious Presidential accolades for their exceptional contributions to the community. Their efforts have brought Louie's Together Playground to lifeโan inclusive playground at Juergens Park in Tomball, designed for children of all abilities.
Louie Munson, born with Achondroplasia, a type of dwarfism, has always been passionate about construction and making people laugh. The idea for Louie's Together Playground was inspired by a social media post showcasing Louieโs dream of becoming a construction worker. When comments on the post downplayed his dream, Dr. Nichole Julia, author of The Ables Fables , featured dwarfism in her book series. The story, Louie's Together Playground , highlights a llama named Louie who builds an inclusive playground with friends of all abilities.
Moved by this story, the Munson family collaborated with the City of Tomball to make Louieโs dream a reality. Brad Munson, a local Chick-fil-A operator, led the fundraising, planning, and design of the playground, dedicating over 4,000 hours to the volunteer project. His efforts will be honored with the U.S. Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and the U.S. Presidential Volunteer Service Gold Medal from the President of the United States.
Louie Munson, who played a vital role in the playgroundโs development, will receive the Presidential Bronze Medal for his approximately 30 hours of volunteer work. Louie attended city hall meetings, assisted in design selections, and contributed to the playground's construction, embodying the spirit of imaginative and impactful community involvement.
The City of Tomball and the Tomball Legacy Fund are also supporting the construction of Louie's Together Playground, which will feature a construction theme reflecting Louieโs interests. The City has donated space at Juergens Park and pledged to maintain the playground for years to come. The Wise Up to Rise Up Foundation, founded by Khristopher Alexander Fields, will continue to support the playground with ongoing volunteer efforts to ensure it remains a vibrant, inclusive space for future generations.
"When I learned about this remarkable story, I felt compelled to act. I was truly inspired, which is why I took immediate steps to make this award a reality," said Fields. "I contacted the board members of the Wise Up to Rise Up Foundation, and we unanimously agreed to sponsor the Presidential Awards for the Munson family, recognizing their exceptional volunteer work."
Fields added, "This project perfectly embodies what the Wise Up to Rise Up Foundation stands forโimaginative, inspirational thinking aimed at making a positive difference in the community. Brad and Louieโs efforts highlight the power of visionary thinking and community involvement, and we are honored to support and sustain their legacy. We are proud to have played a key role in facilitating their upcoming recognition from the White House."
Construction of the playground is set to begin in August, with a total project cost of $815,731, funded by the City of Tomball, the Tomball Economic Development Corporation, Chick-fil-A, and individual donations. This initiative represents a significant milestone in creating inclusive environments where all children can play and grow together.
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