MADERA, Calif. – On Thursday, Valley Children’s and Table Mountain Rancheria celebrated the groundbreaking of a new inclusive play experience designed to promote healing, connection and joy for children of all abilities.
Hospital leaders and staff joined members of the Table Mountain Rancheria Tribal Council, patients, families and community partners to mark the start of construction on the Table Mountain Rancheria Play Experience, a major addition to the hospital campus in Madera County.
“This new play experience is truly an investment in every child and family who comes to Valley Children’s,” said Valley Children’s Hospital President and Chief Administrative Officer William Chaltraw, Jr. “It reflects our shared belief that play is an essential part of each child’s journey, regardless of their circumstances or abilities.”
The play experience is made possible through an $8 million commitment from Table Mountain Rancheria, announced in December 2025. Once completed, the space will offer children and families a welcoming outdoor environment designed to support play, exploration and engagement.
“We understand the importance of good medical care, but we also know that healing takes many forms, and for children, one of those forms comes through play,” said Tribal Chairperson Michelle Heredia-Cordova. “There’s a healing power in getting outdoors, soaking up sunshine, getting the body moving, sharing laughs and finding some moments for fun.”
The gift was inspired, in part, by Chairperson Heredia-Cordova’s personal connection to Valley Children’s, where her daughter received lifesaving care as an infant.
RELATED: Gift From Table Mountain Rancheria to Bring Inclusive Playground to Valley Children’s
Plans for the grounds include elevated walkways, adaptive swings, inclusive climbing structures, slides and other accessible equipment thoughtfully designed for children who use mobility devices. The experience will create opportunities for patients of varying abilities to play together and enjoy the benefits of outdoor recreation.
“This is an incredible, transformational gift that Table Mountain Rancheria has bestowed upon us,” said Dr. Julieanna Sahouria, pediatric emergency physician at Valley Children’s who also serves as chief of staff and base hospital medical director. “We can build the biggest play area, but if we’re not including all children of all ages and all abilities, then we aren’t being inclusive. This is truly an inclusive play experience.”
Construction is expected to be completed in mid-2027. In addition to its play features, the project will incorporate elements recognizing Table Mountain Rancheria and celebrating the Tribe’s cultural heritage.
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