The Hallman family gathered together to open Benny’s Place at KidsAbility Waterloo, a reimagined space that will meet the evolving needs of children and families served by KidsAbility. Two students from KidsAbility School helped with the ribbon cutting, joined by Lisa Talbot, Executive Director, KidsAbility Foundation, Krista Mooney, Principal, KidsAbility School, and Jennifer Foster, CEO, KidsAbility.
A Space for Movement, Therapy, and Possibility
WATERLOO, ON — KidsAbility and KidsAbility Foundation, alongside families, employees and supporters, proudly celebrated the grand opening of Benny’s Place—a newly reimagined therapeutic space at its Waterloo site that honours the legacy of Benny’s Pond while meeting the evolving needs of children and families today.
Originally a therapeutic pool funded through the generosity of the late Lyle S. Hallman, affectionately known as “Benny”, the space has now been transformed thanks to a major gift from his family members Jim and Sue Hallman, into a bright, inclusive area designed to support therapy, play, and connection.
“Today, we open a space with limitless possibilities,” said Jennifer Foster, CEO of KidsAbility. “Benny’s Place reflects a renewed promise—to evolve, grow, and meet children and families where they are, through inclusive programs and daily movement-based therapy.”
The transition from pool to a dedicated space for play-based programming was driven by consultations with the community and a thorough evaluation of service demands. The revitalized space now supports a range of infant to school-aged programs: early childhood development and Autism support to physical literacy, caregiver workshops, and summer readiness camps
“This transformation wasn’t about removing something—it was about making room for more,” added Foster. “More of what will greater serve the growing, diverse and unique needs of local families in the community.”
Sue Gibson, Associate Director of Client Services, highlighted the daily impact of the space: “This is where children discover what their bodies can do—and where families find community and support.”
Lisa Talbot, Executive Director of KidsAbility Foundation, shared the emotional journey behind the project. “The Hallman family believed in what this space could become. Because of them, Benny’s Place continues a legacy of generosity and opens a future of new possibilities for every child who enters.”
The event concluded with remarks from Jim Hallman, who reflected on his father’s legacy and the family’s ongoing commitment to KidsAbility.
Benny’s Place was made possible thanks to the Hallman family and additional community supporters, including ARC-Acoustics and Nicole Guse of Guse Productions.
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