Parks Foundation of Burgaw to honor GAF, a local business and community partner, with naming rights of new community splash pad at Bishop Rayford Hankins Memorial Park

A major sponsor has secured naming rights for Burgaw’s upcoming community splash pad, helping bring the project to life at Hankins Memorial Park.

The Parks Foundation of Burgaw, Inc. is thrilled to announce that GAF, North America’s largest roofing and waterproofing manufacturer, has received the naming rights of the  new community splash pad being constructed at Bishop Rayford Hankins Memorial Park. In addition to monetary donations from GAF, which has operated in the Burgaw community for more than 30 years, the company is also donating its StreetBond solar reflective coatings for the splash pad to provide a colorful and protective area for the community. 

In recognition of this generous support, the Parks Foundation has named the facility the "GAF Community Splash Pad." This project is a shining example of how public-private partnerships can  bring valuable recreational spaces to life for the entire community. 

"The GAF Community Splash Pad will be a fantastic asset to our local families, providing a place for children and adults alike to cool off and enjoy the outdoors," said Sydney Lewis, Chairperson, the Parks Foundation of Burgaw. "We are incredibly grateful for GAF's contribution, which will  play a pivotal role in making this vision a reality. Their support reflects their commitment to the community and will help us create a lasting space for everyone to enjoy." 

The splash pad is part of a broader community fundraising effort, with contributions from private and commercial businesses and local citizens. The Parks Foundation is responsible for raising half  of the total construction cost of the splash pad facility. At the same time, the remaining funds  will be secured through a grant from the North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, managed by the North Carolina Parks Authority and the Governor's Office. 

Construction of the GAF Community Splash Pad is expected to take place between 2026 and  2028. The splash pad will offer a unique, accessible and family-friendly water recreation  experience in the heart of Burgaw. It will feature state-of-the-art water features designed to  entertain children and families during the warm months. 
This collaboration is part of GAF’s social impact initiative, GAF Community Matters, which is  focused on making a positive difference as neighbors and partners in the community by  leveraging roofing expertise, resources and products to help build resilient communities.  

“We’re proud to not only be an employer in Burgaw but also make a positive difference as a neighbor and partner in this community,” said Steve Boehling, General Manager at GAF Burgaw. “We’re honored to support the Parks Foundation of Burgaw by being part of this wonderful project and help to provide a space that will bring joy to residents and visitors alike for years to come.”

For more information on the GAF Community Splash Pad or to contribute to the project, please  visit the Parks Foundation of Burgaw’s website or contact the Foundation directly.