Celebrating Inclusivity: Sana and the Creative Movers Playgroup
Sana Garner was honored at this year's Community Champions for her dedication and passion in advocating for children with disabilities.
By Sydney Kerelo
On October 2nd, KenCrest honored many incredible individuals who have made a difference in the lives of those we support with an intellectual or developmental disability. One such individual is Sana Garner, an inspiring non-disabled parent who has become a beacon of hope and inclusivity for children with disabilities. Through her dedication and passion, Sana has transformed not only her son’s life but the lives of countless children and families in the community.
Sana’s journey began with her intelligent, kind, wheelchair-using son. At four months old, Sana’s son Apollo started showing symptoms of Spastic Quadriplegia Cerebral Palsy (CP)— a form of CP that varies from mild stiffness to severe pain or paralysis and uncontrollable muscle spasms in both arms and legs. She took him for tests, and afterward, he was referred to an Early Intervention provider, where he connected with KenCrest’s Early Intervention Program and received physical, occupational, speech, and special instruction.
As she navigated parenting challenges, she quickly recognized a significant gap in opportunities for children with disabilities to explore their environment through play. Realizing that her son deserved the same experiences as his peers, she bravely founded the Creative Movers Playgroup.
The playgroup has four to seven families attending each month. It also has various playground locations, such as Freedom Playground in Haverford or CADES Inclusive Playground and Music Garden in Swarthmore, a new accessible playground designed for people using mobility aids to play together.
With unwavering determination, Sana created a welcoming and engaging space for children of varying abilities. The playgroup organizes regular meetups at inclusive playgrounds, allowing children with different mobility methods to connect and play together. From the start, Sana’s vision was clear: to foster friendships and create an environment where children can simply be kids. Today, thanks to her efforts, the Creative Movers Playgroup has grown into a thriving community of families who share experiences, laughter, and support.
Beyond the playground, Sana's advocacy has expanded into education. As her son prepares to transition into the school district, she has become a passionate voice for inclusivity in schools. By engaging with school officials and other parents, Sana has championed the needs of children who use alternate mobility methods, ensuring they receive the support and resources necessary for success. Her advocacy reflects her belief that every child should have equal opportunities to thrive academically and socially regardless of ability.
What makes Sana truly exceptional is her authenticity and kindness. She openly shares her experiences, fostering a sense of community among parents navigating similar challenges. Her gentle approach and willingness to engage in difficult conversations have inspired many to join her cause, building a network of support that extends far beyond the playground.
The impact of the Creative Movers Playgroup is undeniable. By identifying accessible playgrounds and actively reaching out to families, Sana has created an inclusive space where children can come together. Her active presence on social media continues to raise awareness about the importance of inclusive play, encouraging other parents to advocate for their children’s needs as well.
Reflecting on Sana's remarkable achievements, we at KenCrest are grateful for her dedication to creating a more inclusive world. Her work exemplifies our mission to empower individuals and families, fostering environments where everyone can thrive. We were honored to celebrate her at the Community Champions event, recognizing her as a true champion for inclusivity.