Breann reaches goal to fund new playground at Berston Field House.
9-Year-Old’s birthday campaign exceeds goal, raises more than $57,000 to fund children’s playground.
What started as a simple birthday wish turned into a remarkable display of community generosity. Through a fundraiser initially started on Facebook, 9-year-old Breann Thompson set out to raise $500 toward the new children’s playground at Berston Field House, in honor of her birthday. She didn’t just meet her goal, she soared past it with significant support from the Serra Foundation, Woodrow Stanley Youth Foundation, individual donors, and matching gift contributions – to raise more than the $57,000 needed to fund the children’s playground.
“I can’t wait for big and little kids to be able to play on our playground at Berston,” said Breann Thompson. “I’m so excited. Thank you everyone for the donations!”
Breann participates in Leading Ladies and The Chosen Few Arts Council (TCFAC), which are youth programs housed at Berston. She is deeply connected to the Field House, being part of a multi-generational family that has benefited from its recreational offerings. Her grandfather regularly swam at Berston’s pool, and her father and uncles spent time playing basketball in the gym. Breann is now the third generation in her family to be positively impacted by Berston, a testament to the enduring legacy and importance of this local community hub.
“At the Serra Foundation, we are committed to nurturing the dreams of our community’s children,” said Julie Serra, president of the Serra Foundation. “Supporting Berston Field House in honor of 9-year-old Breann Thompson is not just about building a playground; it’s about creating a space where laughter, friendship, and growth can flourish.”
Once the Friends of Berston learned of Breann’s fundraiser, they moved to support her efforts by incorporating it into the Berston Next 100 Capital Campaign. The Campaign is an initiative to expand and renovate Berston Field House, enhancing its historic role as a vital community hub. The campaign aims to build a new state-of-the-art recreation center, and renovate existing spaces for indoor and outdoor sports, arts, education and community activities, ensuring Berston’s legacy of service to Flint and Genesee County residents for the next 100 years.
“The Woodrow Stanley Youth Foundation is honored to be a contributor to Berston’s new playground equipment,” said Jasmine McKenney, president of the Woodrow Stanley Youth Foundation. “We celebrate my father’s legacy and his love of Flint and commitment to youth development.”
“Breann’s efforts have helped raise the entire amount needed to fully fund the playground’s construction, ensuring that our children will have a safe and vibrant place to play for years to come,” said James Avery, executive director of Friends of Berston. “We are celebrating Breann – who we see as a representative of all children – and her efforts, as we continue working to raise the remaining funds necessary to complete the entire renovation and expansion project.”
Supporters can contribute to the Berston Next 100 Campaign by clicking the button below, and choosing the Capital Campaign option. Every contribution helps Berston continue its mission to provide a thriving hub for community enrichment, sports, arts, and education.
