Fort Atkinson, WI — Badgerland After School Enrichment Program (BASE) recently celebrated the ribbon cutting of its new Early Childhood Playground at 1233 Janesville Ave, marking a major milestone in the organization’s ongoing expansion and its commitment to creating a safe, fun place for the community’s kids to BE during the critical hours when school is out.

Designed specifically for 4, 5, and 6‑year‑olds, the new playground features age‑appropriate climbing structures, a swing set, and open space for movement and exploration. Just beyond the playground, BASE’s new garden provides opportunities for all children to grow food, explore nature, and participate in hands‑on outdoor learning. The playground was made possible through the generous support of BASE’s Future Home Capital Campaign, which continues to transform the organization’s campus into a vibrant, welcoming hub for youth and families.

“This playground represents more than new equipment,” said Executive Director Alicia Norris. “It’s an investment in our youngest community members- giving them a safe, inspiring place to grow, explore, and build confidence every single day. We’re grateful to our supporters who helped make this vision a reality.”

The Early Childhood Playground is part of BASE’s broader effort to expand programming for children ages 4 and up, enhance outdoor learning, and create spaces that feel like home for the hundreds of children served each year. In partnership with the School District of Fort Atkinson, BASE will extend its programs to include wrap‑around and extended care for 4K students, as well as after‑school care for elementary children ages 5 and 6 in a newly licensed childcare space for the 2026-2027 school year.

The facility also includes a commercial kitchen, multipurpose room, community rooms, and enrichment classrooms designed to support both BASE’s elementary out‑of‑school‑time programs and the greater community. With Phase I nearly complete, BASE continues developing new projects that strengthen community engagement and support long‑term growth across its 66,000‑square‑foot facility.

BASE welcomes community members, partners, and local employers to tour the new facility and learn more about upcoming initiatives. To schedule a visit, contact BASE at admin@basefortatkinson.org.

About BASE

Badgerland After School Enrichment Program (BASE) provides high‑quality after‑school and summer programming for children in Fort Atkinson and surrounding communities. Through hands‑on learning, enrichment activities, and supportive relationships, BASE empowers youth to explore, create, and thrive.

Kids create a colorful “Welcome to Our Playground” sign, mix lemonade for ribbon‑cutting guests, and plant native prairie plants along the walkway as part of BASE’s larger prairie restoration project supported by a Xerces Society grant.