The project’s roots actually go back to Hurricane Katrina, after which NJFMBA donated and built playgrounds along the Gulf of Mexico. The organization’s kindness was returned years later, when two Mississippi communities donated more than 1,000 wrapped gifts to New Jersey towns devastated by Sandy. The Sandy Ground Project became the next step in the spirit of paying it forward.

Each themed playground is devoted to the memory of one child or teacher who was killed at Sandy Hook. The color schemes and play areas will match the victims’ favorite colors and activities.

“Noah’s memory will live on with this playground, through the children of our community,” said Dan Caracciolo, who was instrumental in bringing the playground project to Bay Park. Caracciolo is also the founder of the local grass-roots organization the11518.

Paying it forward

Before construction began, and in keeping with the pay-it-forward theme, two local community fundraisers were held to raise money for the group’s next two projects: building playgrounds to honor the victims of the Boston Marathon bombings and the tornado in Moore, Okla., both of which occurred in 2013.

“I am in complete awe, and I’m very humbled by the amount of support we got for this project,” said Caracciolo. “We’re looking forward to being a part of this pay-it-forward network in the future.” He added that he plans to attend the dedication ceremony for the 26th playground in Watertown, Conn., later this summer.

“This was one of the most memorable weekends that I have ever experienced,” said Bay Park resident and Sandy victim Rachel Sumeson. “My parents were here for it, and my dad said that we live in one of the greatest communities. The Pozner family and Where Angels Play Foundation really brought out the best in everyone.”

For more information, visit www.thesandygroundproject.org.