Action to Date In early 2007, our group of parents approached the city about the idea of the soft playroom. The city was aware of the need because of the communications from other parents over the previous years and was receptive to looking into the concept. The city proposed converting a racquetball court at Chinquapin Recreation Center, 3210 King St,. and several public meetings were held in March and May 2007 to discuss the idea. On May 16, we were notified that the city is giving us “Club Room 4” on the lower level at Chinquapin. The room is 800 square feet and will accommodate approximately 15 children at one time. Since then, our design team has worked tirelessly and with great creativity to determine how best to take advantage of the room’s unique shape and height. On September 29, 2007 we held a kick-off event, “Let’s Get It Started!” which drew hundreds of people and helped us raise more than $5,000. We are now planning future fundraising events in the hopes of raising thousands more by June 30, 2008 so that we can get started on installation. In March 2008, we held an arts & crafts fundraiser at Chinquapin and helped spread the word about the effort, showing newcomers the space that will accommodate the soft playroom. We also have plans for a Great Zucchini performance on April 19 and several dine-out evenings at local restaurants. Our latest drive is to find corporate donors who can help us with matching funds and significant donations. This is a great opportunity for Alexandria-based businesses to give back to their community! Volunteers meet on the third Wednesday of every month from 7:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. in room 4 at the Chinquapin Center to plan future fundraising efforts and settle on a final design. Meetings are open to anyone who would like to help! To get involved, donate online or e-mail softplayroom@gmail.com to get plugged in to our volunteer and community network. Keep checking back for project updates!