Hospital president gives $50,000 to preschool

Members of the SSM Health St. Francis Hospital leadership team, board of directors, physicians and members of the St. Francis Hospital Foundation gathered at the new barrier-free/inclusive playground September 15 to honor Michael Baumgartner and his family.

Baumgartner, president of SSM Health St. Francis Hospital, generously gifted $50,000 to the new playground at SSM Health Preschool and Child Care Center, in honor of his grandson, Adam Martin.

“It’s hard to beat the joy and laughter of a child. It’s even more special when it is one of your grandchildren,” Baumgartner said. “My grandson, Adam, is a special young man. He loves being outside and playing with his brothers. It is a blessing, being able to support Adam and other children, with this inclusive park.”

Barrier-free/inclusive playgrounds are accessible for all abilities. Modifications are made to the play structure, walking surfaces and other equipment in the park so that every child with or without a disability can play side-by-side.

The playground is the largest play structure in Maryville. SSM Health St. Francis Hospital hopes to complete contracts with Maryville Parks and Recreation soon so that the playground can open to the community on evenings and weekends.

“It’s a wonderful play space for the children at the preschool and child care center, but even more importantly, it will be a wonderful play space for over 400 children in Nodaway County living with a disability,” said Megan Jennings, St. Francis Hospital Foundation Development Officer. “We are forever grateful that Mike helped make this dream possible for our community.”