(PLATTSBURGH - Monday August 15th 2022) - The City of Plattsburgh wishes to congratulate local high school senior, Bailey J. Vanarmman on his recent achievement of raising $8,000 through a city soccer tournament on August 7th at Melissa Penfield Park. Mr. Vanarman plans to use this money to purchase inclusive playground equipment and gift it to the City of Plattsburgh as part of the Parks Renewal Project.
Bailey Vanarman is a high school senior at Plattsburgh Public High School and recently was inducted into the National Honor Society. As part of his participation, Mr. Vanarman must fulfill community service projects that benefit his community, and chose to organize a 3v3 soccer tournament and will use the proceeds to fund the purchase of new and inclusive playground equipment in Melissa Penfield Park. “The reason for wanting to raise money for all inclusive playground equipment is because I want all kids to be able to play and benefit from the equipment I’m able to purchase. The equipment will allow kids to learn through play. The equipment I’m looking at getting is all music themed due to my love for all things music.” says Mr. Vanarman.
Many local businesses and organizations stepped in to support Mr. Vanarman’s tournament, such as North Country Kids, Warren Tire, AEDA, and Castine Properties. Hamilton Funeral Home, Wes Heating and Peru Federal Credit Union, all located in Peru, also stepped up to support the initiative.
Originally, Mr. Vanarman set a fundraising goal of $3,000 but quickly realized the playground equipment he wanted to purchase totaled closer to $14,000. “I didn’t want to just purchase one piece, I wanted to be able to purchase several so lots of kids could play music together”, added Mr. Vanarman. He is thankful for the support of his family, friends, teachers, Mr Peryea and Mr. Mulligan and his mom.
Mr. Vanarman is still working toward his goal of $14,000 and plans to hold a Basketball tournament later this fall, and is looking for businesses and community groups who would like to support this next fundraiser. Of his community, Mr. Vanarman adds, “This is a great place to grow up and live. By getting involved and giving back, it helps continue to make it a great place to be.”
If you would like to provide feedback on the City of Plattsburgh’s Parks Renewal Project, a survey has just been launched and can be found at https://cityofplattsburgh-ny.gov/parks-renewal and will collect responses until October 14th 2022.
