MOORESVILLE, N.C. (May 27, 2017) – The Earnhardt Family Playground is now an integral part of the landscape at Rescue Ranch, offering inclusive fun for all children at the venue run by NASCAR driver Ryan Newman and his wife Krissie. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Kelley Earnhardt Miller attended the dedication for the playground, which came about through a generous donation from The Dale Jr. Foundation and a like amount from an anonymous donor connected to the family.

The nonprofit animal welfare organization’s 10,000-square foot inclusive Earnhardt Family Playground houses elements for children with all abilities which includes: eight wheelchair accessible activity centers, roller and sidewinder slides, sway fun, several climbing walls, one handicap accessible zip line, custom play barn, swings equipped for children of all abilities and much more.

“It’s important to me and everyone involved with our foundation to give back to our community, particularly where we can have an impact on kids,” Earnhardt Jr. said. “Ryan and Krissie have created an amazing place at Rescue Ranch that encourages a deeper respect and understanding for animals.  The inclusive playground is just one piece, but I hope an important piece.  If it contributes to the overall experience in any way, then it served its purpose.”

Supporting youth, nature and conservation, the Earnhardt family’s values go hand-and-hand with the mission of Rescue Ranch.

“It brings us such joy to see children playing on The Earnhardt Family Playground for the first time today,” said Krissie Newman, co-founder and president of the nonprofit organization. “This playground couldn’t have come to fruition as quickly as it did without the support of our generous donors. Our family, staff and donors love this community and are elated that kids of all abilities will finally have a place to play together.”

The new playground will play a part in Rescue Ranch’s educational programs to promote respect for animals and responsible pet ownership, as well as agricultural, environmental and wildlife conservation by providing an additional place for all to play including Critter Campers, school groups and more.

The public is invited to experience The Earnhardt Family Playground at a community ribbon-cutting Saturday, June 3 beginning at 10 a.m. and running until noon.