Broadmoor School, the educational program for the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities/Deepwood, recently celebrated the Deepwood Foundation’s Tribute Garden, a community project several years in the making. Located in the northern corner of the Clark Family Adaptive Activity and Learning Center, at 8090 Broadmoor Road, the Deepwood Foundation Tribute Garden features four customized benches and over 250 bricks and pavers bearing personalized messages from sponsors, donors and families connected to the foundation and board. Nearly 150 people attended the Deepwood Foundation’s recent Tribute Garden dedication at Broadmoor School in Mentor. The project features four customized benches and over 250 personalized bricks. (Submitted) The garden marks the fourth and final stage of the Clark Center’s Playground, which opened in 2021 at Broadmoor. The cost of the project is over $600,000, officials noted and is funded by several private and corporate sponsorships. Additionally, the installation was created to honor individuals who have generously given their time, resources, spirit and compassion, as each brick serves as a symbol of the strong support that continues to uplift those with developmental disabilities. “We know that disabilities can touch any family,” said Deepwood Foundation President Andrea Poklar-Byrne, addressing attendees during the garden dedication. “It’s because of your heartfelt support that we are able to empower these families and provide essential resources to individuals with special needs. “Your contributions help us continue our mission — one filled with hope and opportunity.” Lake County Board of DD/Deepwood Superintendent Elfie Roman also expressed gratitude. “We cannot thank you enough for your benevolence,” she said. “We wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for you.” Officials added that limited staffing and increased projects at the foundation made it difficult to complete the project sooner, but that the addition of staff members Jaclyn Drago and LeeAnn Mullen — under the guidance of Program Administrator Tana Habat — brought the endeavor to fruition. “The Tribute Garden is a lasting tribute to the profound impact our supporters and families have had on the lives of those we serve,” said Deepwood Foundation Executive Director Rikki Coach. While about half of the bricks in the garden have been sponsored and customized, the foundation is continuing to sell bricks. For more information or to donate a custom brick, visit DeepwoodFoundation.org.