Health & Fitness
Warren Park to Receive Generous Gift in “KJ’s Playground” Special Needs Park
BELLE ISLE, Fla. (FNN NEWS) – In August of 2016, local philanthropist Christopher Comins received the wonderful news that he was a grandfather. At the same time his daughter, Jenny Lynn Hutnick, and the entire family learned that her son, KJ, was born with Down Syndrome. Down Syndrome is a genetic disorder caused when abnormal cell division results in an extra full or partial copy of chromosome 21. This extra genetic material causes developmental difficulties and physical features distinctive to Down Syndrome. Rather than looking at KJ’s condition as a challenge, Hutnick, a nurse, went to work by creating a foundation called The Up Side of Down, with the specific purpose of improving the lives of children with Down Syndrome. Comins, her father, has partnered with the foundation to fund this exciting and unique project. “My daughter gave me a gift in KJ and I want to do whatever is in my power and resources to make his life and the lives of other children with Down Syndrome meaningful,” said Comins. “KJ couldn’t have been born to a better mother and more selfless person.”
Chris Comins’s daughter, Jenny Lynn Hutnick, with her son KJ. Photo: Randy Ross/Florida National News.
“KJ’s PLAYGROUND” IN WARREN PARK
Nestled among the pristine tree-lined streets and Conway Chain of Lakes in Belle Isle, Florida, is Orange County’s Warren Park, the site where the interactive and special needs park, “KJ’s Playground,” will be built. Special needs parks, in the simplest of descriptions, features traditional playground style equipment modified for various forms of movement, like wheelchairs and children with crutches and braces.
Special needs parks, like Morgan’s Wonderland seen here, offer playground equipment that helps special needs children play. Photo: New York Times.
The goal is simply to enhance physical, cognitive, emotional, and social functioning, as well as a sense of belonging in a community.
Orange County Commissioner Pete Clarke expressed, “I was excited to learn that Chris and his family were bringing this project to an Orange County park. It speaks volumes to the charitable nature of this and all the projects Chris has brought to the residents of Orange County and especially those in Belle Isle.”
“I recall when I first met with Chris at a chance meeting where he mentioned the interactive park and I suggested Warren Park. I recall how matter of fact he was in wanting to do this project.” City of Belle Isle Commissioner Bobby Lance said. “We’re very fortunate in the City of Belle Isle to have such a giving neighbor in Chris and his entire family…especially the inspiration for the project, his grandson KJ.”
While the completion date is not confirmed, Comins acknowledged that he and his daughter are researching other special needs parks throughout the country in order to bring the most relevant and appropriate equipment to the project. Comins, retired, lives in the City of Belle Isle and was just recently spotlighted by Florida National News for a donation and complete reconstruction of the City of Belle Isle Police Station.
Florida National News will be there for the opening and dedication of “KJ’s Playground” and will bring you that report timely.
___________________________________________________
Randy Ross is a political contributor for Florida National News. | info@floridanationalnews.com
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — AdventHealth is now accepting applications for its 2026 Community Impact Grants, aimed at supporting nonprofit organizations working to address critical health needs across Central Florida.
The grant program partners with community-based organizations to expand initiatives that improve quality of life and promote long-term sustainability. Eligible nonprofits serving residents in Orange, Osceola, Seminole and South Lake counties are encouraged to apply.
Applications are open from March 30 through April 16, with funding expected to begin Jan. 1, 2027.
FOCUS ON COMMUNITY HEALTH NEEDS
The grants are guided by Central Florida’s Community Health Needs Assessment, which identifies key challenges impacting residents’ well-being.
“Our annual Community Impact Grants are guided by Central Florida’s Community Health Needs Assessment to ensure we are investing meaningfully where our neighbors need us most,” said Tricia Edris, senior vice president of innovation and partnerships for AdventHealth Central Florida. “We are honored to align our resources and stand as partners to create measurable, lasting impact across the region.”
PRIORITY AREAS FOR FUNDING
The 2026 grant cycle will focus on three key areas:
- Housing instability
- Transportation
- Food insecurity
These priorities reflect social determinants of health that can significantly influence a person’s ability to live a healthy and stable life. Community organizations often serve as the first line of support for residents facing these challenges.
COMMUNITY IMPACT AND PARTNERSHIPS
Past grant recipients say the program has helped expand opportunities for residents. Crystal Davidson highlighted the impact of the initiative on workforce development.
“Schools and colleges often don’t have the funding to provide introductory workforce programs that expose students to new career opportunities,” Davidson said. “Through partnership grants like the one AdventHealth is providing, we’re able to give young people hands-on experiences that help them discover their potential and build a path toward a meaningful career.”
AdventHealth will also host an informational webinar to guide organizations through eligibility requirements, funding priorities and the application process. Interested applicants can learn more and apply through the AdventHealth website.
