A Gift of Play: Table Mountain Rancheria Helps Build Inclusive Playground

Soon, laughter and sunlight will fill a new space on Valley Children’s campus: a playground designed for every child. This vision will become a reality thanks to an extraordinary $8 million gift from Table Mountain Rancheria, a federally recognized Native American tribe of the Chukchansi and Monache people, that will transform the hospital’s south lawn into a haven for healing and joy.

“This gift is more than a playground. It’s a promise to our children that their well-being matters,” said Todd Suntrapak, President and CEO of Valley Children’s. “We are deeply grateful to Table Mountain Rancheria for their vision, generosity and enduring partnership.”

The playground will feature elevated walkways and multi-level towers for children using mobility devices, inclusive climbing structures and slides, adaptive swings and sensory-friendly equipment. Construction begins in early 2026, adjacent to the hospital’s existing play area.

For Michelle Heredia-Cordova, Tribal chairperson of Table Mountain Rancheria, the project is deeply personal. Her daughter Alexandria underwent heart surgery at Valley Children’s just 11 days after birth and continues to return for checkups at the Willson Heart Center.

“Myself and other tribal members have made use of Valley Children’s, and I’m grateful for the service and the care that our children have received there. And so that is a part of why we wanted to make this donation,” she said.

Heredia-Cordova believes play is essential to healing. “Every child deserves a place to play, grow, and heal, right here at home. We are honored to support Valley Children’s Hospital in creating an inclusive play area where children of all abilities can come together, have fun and find comfort during their journey to wellness,” she said.

She also credited the dedication of employees at Table Mountain Rancheria and Table Mountain Casino Resort for making the gift possible.

“The spirit of giving is central to us as a people. We strengthen our community, and in turn, the community strengthens us. And it creates a cycle that reflects our values here at Table Mountain,” she said.

Valley Children’s Healthcare Foundation President Robert Saroyan called the donation a reflection of a longstanding relationship.

“This is the kind of partnership that brings our mission to life. This latest demonstration of their generosity will help create a space where children can experience joy and healing in ways that truly matter,” Saroyan said.

For Valley Children’s leaders, play is more than fun; it’s vital.

“Play is everything for kids. It’s how they explore the world, learn how things work together and how people work together,” said Dr. Carmela Sosa, medical director of the Guilds Center for Community Health.

Heredia-Cordova summed up the vision simply: “What I’m looking forward to most is just seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces. Like just seeing the joy and seeing kids being kids.”