SPRING LAKE, N.C. - Liberty PlayTown, an imaginative and inclusive play center located in Harnett County, announced its grand opening on Oct. 12, 2024. This unique facility, co-owned by Carolyn Wilson and Krista Petty, offers a unique space for play for children ages 0-7. In addition, the center will be fully wheelchair accessible and provide a sensory-friendly space for children, with private playtime available for children with special needs.

Wilson and Petty's path to opening Liberty PlayTown was aided by their participation in the Lift-Off Lab program last fall. Lift-Off Lab is a business startup program offered by the Central Carolina Community College Small Business Center with support from Harnett County and the Dunn, Lillington, Angier, Erwin, and Coats Chambers of Commerce. The program not only offered Wilson and Petty essential business tools and information to make their vision a reality, but awarded them a $5,000 startup grant.

"Central Carolina Community College is a part of our community. We greatly appreciate their presence in the area and their willingness to assist people who have a dream of entrepreneurship but need a little guidance and encouragement," said Wilson. "Harnett Lift-Off Lab provided a wealth of knowledge, as well as a group of people that encouraged each other along the way."

Terri Brown, Small Business Center Executive Director at Central Carolina Community College, said, "Carolyn and Krista's dedication to the Lift-Off Lab program and their business has been inspiring to watch. Liberty PlayTown will be a wonderful asset to our community and their work with special needs children is something that is needed in our area."

Having lived in the Anderson Creek area for so many years and being a part of a community that truly cares about their fellow neighbor, Wilson noted, "We started this business with the desire to maintain that same sense of love-your-neighbor mindset. It is our hope, through our tiny mock town at Liberty PlayTown, that we can encourage children to one day live out their dream."

Liberty PlayTown's offerings will include a safe, sensory-friendly environment designed for children with cognitive and sensory processing needs. Therapists can reserve private sessions to work with children in an environment tailored to their needs. The program is part of its broader mission to foster inclusion and provide a welcoming, supportive space for children of all abilities.

Wilson and Petty are passionate about not only creating a play space, but also fostering community engagement and citizenship. Liberty PlayTown will offer a full calendar of family-friendly events, including partnerships with local businesses to offer special experiences for families. They will also be introducing a date-night program, offering parents of small children up to four hours of childcare while they enjoy local dining and entertainment options.

With its grand opening now complete, Liberty PlayTown looks forward to becoming an integral part of the Anderson Creek community. Through its inclusive play spaces, and ongoing events, the center is poised to make a lasting impact.