Team Depot Volunteers Transform Outdoor Spaces at Chileda Learning Center – Menasha, WI Campus

In a heartwarming show of community spirit and corporate partnership, a team of 10 dedicated volunteers from The Home Depot’s East and West Appleton, WI locations joined forces with staff at Chileda Learning Center–Menasha on August 27, 2025. Their mission? To help create a more inviting and engaging outdoor environment for students with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), and complex behavioral needs. 

A Day of Impactful Service 

The volunteer team rolled up their sleeves and got to work enhancing the school’s outdoor facilities. Their efforts included: 

• Constructing a mobile Gaga pit for accessible play 

• Installing basketball hoops to encourage physical activity and teamwork 

• Setting up picnic tables to foster social interaction and outdoor learning 

All materials were generously donated by the East and West Appleton Home Depot stores, reinforcing their commitment to giving back to the communities they serve. 

Creating Spaces Where All Students Can Thrive 

“These new additions will provide our students with more opportunities for sensory-friendly physical activity and meaningful social engagement,” said Rob Becker, Principal at Chileda Learning Center–Menasha. “This collaboration is a beautiful example of how corporate engagement can directly impact the lives of children with special needs. We are very grateful to Home Depot for their generous gift of time, talent, and treasure.” 

A Shared Commitment to Community 

Brooke Wruck, Store Manager at the Appleton East Home Depot, echoed the sentiment: 

“The mobile Gaga pit is designed to be accessible and adaptable, allowing students of all abilities to participate. The basketball hoops and picnic tables will give students more ways to enjoy the outdoors. We’re delighted to support this amazing organization that’s making such a positive difference in the community.” 

More Than Just a Project 

The day of service also included a barbecue lunch and a tour of the school, giving volunteers a deeper understanding of Chileda’s mission and the students they serve. With classes set to resume after Labor Day, the timing couldn’t have been better. The new outdoor features are sure to bring joy and excitement to students returning to campus next week. Highlights from the day are captured in the illustrations and links below.   

Get Involved 

Want to make a difference in the lives of children with special needs? Whether you’re a local business or community member there are multiple ways to support Chileda’s mission. Visit www.chileda.org to learn more about what we do and how you can contribute.  

Rob Becker is the principal of Chileda Learning Center located in Menasha, Wisconsin. With over 30 years of professional experience at both public and private schools both domestically and internationally, Rob has held various teaching as well as administrative roles from early childhood through high school, including special education. Rob and his wife Cindy have three adult sons who all live in Denver, CO.  In their spare time, Rob and his wife enjoy travelling all over the world, but especially to Denver to be with their grown boys.  

*The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or professional advice. Chileda, Inc. strives for accuracy but is not responsible for errors or omissions. Chileda Inc. disclaims any liability for any losses or damages arising from the use of this blog site.