Honor Frankie: Upgrade Oak Bluffs Playground

Help Rebuild the Oak Bluffs Preschool Playground in Memory of Frank Edward Rodenbaugh

On March 19, 2025, our beloved son, Frank Edward Rodenbaugh, passed away at just two years old. Frankie was a joyful, curious, and loving child who found one of his favorite places at the Preschool Playground at the Oak Bluffs School—just outside the kindergarten classroom where his mother, Julie, teaches. He spent countless hours there with his sister Clare, exploring the slides, racing across the bouncy bridge, and soaking up the magic of play.

To honor his memory, we are partnering with Project Headway, a program within the public preschool system, to raise funds for a full rehabilitation and upgrade of the Oak Bluffs Preschool Playground. This isn’t just about Frankie—it’s about all the children of Martha’s Vineyard. Together, we can build something safe, inclusive, and lasting for the entire community.

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Our Goal: $200,000

This playground is well-loved but in need of significant upgrades. With your help, we can:

• Install modern, inclusive play structures

• Replace worn surfacing for improved safety

• Enhance accessibility for children of all abilities

• Add shade and natural elements to create a more welcoming space

• Cover planning, permitting, and professional installation costs

All funds raised will go directly to Project Headway and the revitalization effort for this playground.

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Why It Matters

This playground is more than just swings and slides. It’s where kids build confidence, social skills, friendships, and memories. For our family, it’s where Frankie laughed, played, and bonded with his sister Clare nearly every day. For the larger community, it’s a vital resource for early childhood play and development—and it deserves attention and care.

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How You Can Help

• Donate – Every gift, big or small, brings this project closer to reality.

• Share – Please help spread the word on social media, through email, and in your circles.

We’ll also be sharing photos and updates as the project moves forward.

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This playground project is a tribute to Frankie’s joyful spirit and a gift to all the children who will run, climb, laugh, and grow there in the years to come. With your help, we can bring something beautiful to life in his name—and for the benefit of the entire island.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

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With gratitude,

Matthew, Julie, and Clare Rodenbaugh

In partnership with Project Headway