While many children in Selma can play on jungle gyms and swing sets without worry or limitation, some children, such as those with special needs or disabilities, cannot so easily.

Carolyn C. Bates, founder and director of Selma Disabilities Advocacy Program, is on a mission to help children with special needs get educated and have fun like any other child.

Bates’ program offers a playground and park, classroom and computer center for children with special needs and learning disabilities. Still, Bates feels the city of Selma should provide more funding to help the center be an even greater point of access for those with disabilities.

“We want the Selma City Council to provide support through additional playground pieces where even adults can use it to build their motor skills,” Bates said. “Adults and children with special needs need exercises like everyone else.

“Our program is very important because we not only serve Selma and Dallas County but we have referrals from other counties as well,” Bates said. “We partner with universities across the United States to make services better for even our seniors.”

Bates, who now suffers from dyslexia and osteoporosis, said the playground and park play important roles in the lives of those with special needs.

“Many parents don’t have a place to take their children that’s safe, but this program is a place children and their parents can come to and enjoy,” Bates said. “The playground has swings and sliding boards, and we have a park deck equipped with wheelchair access. It also serves as a foundation to aid in social, motor and cognitive skills.”

Bates said above all, the center offers hope to those labeled with stigmas.

“We teach our children to be advocates for themselves,” Bates said.

“We’re a one stop place for education, job training and legal representation.”

The center will hold its summer program for nearly 40 children with special needs beginning Monday.

Bates also plans to have a “wall of recognition” completed by September to honor all of those who’ve contributed to the park and success of the organization.