The Groden Network

Creating Space for Play, Growth, and Joy

April is Autism Awareness Month—a time to recognize, uplift, and support individuals with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities. At the Lawson Charitable Foundation, we are proud to partner with The Groden Network to support a project that brings meaningful, everyday impact to the children in their care.

Through a 2025 Impact Grant, the Lawson Charitable Foundation is supporting the development of a new, inclusive playground at the Groden Network’s residential group home in Smithfield, Rhode Island. This playground, scheduled to open in Spring 2026, is part of a broader initiative to bring sensory-friendly, developmentally appropriate outdoor play environments to all three of their residential homes.

Designed with intention and care, the playground will include sensory sandboxes, adaptive swings, spinning elements, textured panels, quiet break areas, and structures that encourage movement and exploration.

A Space Designed for Growth, Connection, and Joy

inclusive play The Groden Network’s residential homes provide 24/7 care for children with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities—ensuring their daily needs are met with consistency and compassion. This new playground builds on that foundation by creating a safe, accessible outdoor environment tailored to how these children experience the world.

More than a place to play, this space is designed to support:

Sensory regulation
Communication and social interaction
Gross and fine motor development
Emotional well-being and engagement
Safe, consistent access to outdoor activity

By bringing this environment directly to where the children live, the playground ensures that play—an essential part of childhood—is always within reach, thoughtfully designed, and aligned with each child’s unique developmental needs.

Our Mission in Action

This project reflects the Lawson Charitable Foundation’s commitment to supporting organizations that are helping individuals and families navigate complex challenges with strength and determination.

The playground project aligns closely with our Special Needs Assistance for Children giving area, which focuses on expanding access to resources, adaptive equipment, and opportunities that allow children of all abilities to grow, thrive, and experience joy.

By investing in projects like this, we aim to support not only immediate needs, but also long-term impact—creating spaces and opportunities that empower children and strengthen the communities around them. And best of all, are the smiles projects like this bring.

We look forward to celebrating the opening of this playground in Spring 2026 and the lasting impact it will have on the children who call these homes their own.

Learn more about The Groden Network and the amazing resources they provide to our community.

The Lawson Charitable Foundation was created in 2021 by Cathy and Tom Lawson. The mission of the Foundation is to help those that are working hard to help themselves and others.