We Go Round at Southside Park

We Go Round at Southside Park

Every playground needs a merry-go-round! Opened in 2005, Universal Universe, located in Sacramento’s historic Southside park, was one of the first fully accessible playgrounds in Northern California.

Today, the playground continues to provide a fun place to play, yet with years of constant use the original merry-go-round is broken, blocked off, and was never accessible to wheelchairs.

Our goal is to purchase a We-Go-Round, a fully accessible ride designed with fun and safety in mind. It will have seating for children who do not use wheelchairs and ample room for wheelchairs that can be easily rolled on and secured. It provides shelter from the sun and handles inside and outside that are used to propel the carousel and help keep it at a reasonable maximum speed.

The We-Go-Round fundraiser is a partnership effort between Jonnie and Friends Reach for the Stars and the City of Sacramento. Jonnie & Friends is a tribute to Jonnie Laver who developed meningitis at a young age and became reliant on a wheelchair.  He loved Universal Universe and played there regularly until his passing in 2019. His family is now dedicated to restoring the playground to ensure kids of all abilities have access to play. 

Help Jonnie and Friends Reach for the Stars meet its goal of a new We-Go-Round!

The City of Sacramento has agreed to install the We-Go-Round for us in Spring 2021. Universal Universe playground at Southside Park is located at 2115 6th St, Sacramento, CA 95818

Donate now! Be sure to select: We Go Round at Southside Park!
Facebook | Instagram