AUBURN, Ind. — A local nonprofit just kicked off a big push to build something DeKalb County has never had: a free, public splash pad. Fortify Life announced Fortify Play, an inclusive playground and splash pad coming to downtown Auburn, and the community is already stepping up in a big way.
One-third of the $1.5 million goal is already locked in just weeks after the public launch.
Fortify Play: More Than Just a Playground
The park will sit on a city-owned lot off Connection Drive near West Seventh Street. It will be fully fenced for safety and built for every child, no matter their abilities.
Plans include:
- A 10-feature splash pad open to all ages
- Fully accessible zip line, merry-go-round, and swing sets
- Shaded pavilion and on-site restrooms
- Sensory-friendly play zones
“This isn’t just a playground,” said Sydney Kent, Development Manager at Fortify Life. “It’s a place where every kid in DeKalb County can play side by side, no barriers.”
The splash pad will run on recirculated water with modern filtration, keeping operating costs low for the city once it’s built.
Fundraising Hits Early Milestone Fast
Fortify Life quietly raised $500,000 in lead gifts before going public. Since the February announcement, donations have kept rolling in.
In less than one month, the campaign has secured roughly 33% of the total needed.
Local businesses are jumping in with dine-to-donate nights, T-shirt sales, and sponsorship packages. Naming rights for different park features are also available, from individual splash toys to the entire pavilion.
“We knew this community shows up,” Kent said. “But the speed of the support has been incredible. People see the renderings and immediately say, ‘We need this yesterday.’”
Why DeKalb County Needs This Now
Right now, families in Auburn and surrounding towns have to drive to Fort Wayne or Kendallville for a public splash pad. On 90-degree days, those parks get packed.
Fortify Play will be free, open dawn to dusk, and just minutes from most homes in the county.
Parents of children with disabilities have been especially vocal. Many current playgrounds have mulch or equipment that wheelchairs can’t navigate. Fortify Play is being designed from the ground up to meet ADA standards and beyond.
One mom wrote on the Fortify Life Facebook page: “My son is nonverbal and uses a walker. He’s never been able to play on a splash pad because of steps or uneven ground. This changes everything for us.”
Next Steps and Timeline
The project already cleared the DeKalb County Plan Commission. The team is now filing for the Improvement Location Permit with the City of Auburn and the State Design Release for the sunshade structure.
If fundraising stays on pace, ground could break as early as fall 2026, with a grand opening targeted for summer 2027.
Fortify Life says every dollar raised stays local. The park will be turned over to the City of Auburn for maintenance once complete, meaning no cost to taxpayers for ongoing care.
You can help make it happen today. Donate online at fortifylife.org, grab a T-shirt, or join the next dine-to-donate event. Every bit gets kids one step closer to splashing in their own backyard.
DeKalb County has waited long enough for a place like this. Now it’s actually happening, and it’s happening because neighbors decided to build it together.
What do you think? Will you be first in line when the water turns on? Drop your thoughts below and tag #FortifyPlay when you share, because this one is worth shouting about.
