The playground
The reconstruction of the playground, a dream of the residents for children to play and have fun, came out of the collective imagination and became a reality with the puxirum between the participants of the reFloresta Movement and the community. A space for laughter, exchange, and coexistence. Meet the project below!
History
The Anã community has long been a place full of energy, where many residents—especially the younger ones—sought spaces for creativity, gatherings, and play, whether in the forest or by the river (acha, pei-pei, mata no meio, sete pecados, taco, pira, soccer, and pique-bandeira).
With this in mind, in 2007, the first high school class in Anã decided to build a community square—a dedicated space for children to play and for other activities like theater, art workshops, and shared celebrations.
Once built, the square quickly became a beloved spot. People would gather to walk, children filled it with life, and the space gained meaning not just for its function but for the way it came to be—an idea born from the community, with simple materials like wood and tires used to make the swings, seesaws, and slides.
“I was there when the first square was built—it was a project by Professor Shayla and Professor Leon. I remember how the community embraced the idea, and I saw the people of Anã coming together like never before. We would wake up early to collect wood and bring it to the site. I was so happy to see my children playing there. Even the older kids would organize teams and tournaments—it was so much fun, and everyone came to watch.
It’s sad to see the square neglected now. My grandson never got to play there like his mother did. The community scattered, and there’s no longer a space where everyone can meet and talk. I believe that square brought us together.”
—Antônio Cardoso, 53, Anã community resident.
However, over time, the materials used in the construction of the playground wore out, and no maintenance was carried out—neither for the toys nor for the space itself. Gradually, the square disappeared, leaving behind only traces and memories. Even so, children still return to that space daily, playing among what remains of the old square—full of history, but now without toys, workshops, or structured activities.
“I still got to play in the square. It was already quite run-down, but there were still some things we could use. My classmates and I would go straight there after school to play soccer and volleyball. We’d stay until dusk, then go down to the river to play pira. I loved going—it was right in front of my house and helped me avoid staying cooped up indoors. Even with everything falling apart, I had experiences there that have stayed with me to this day.”
—Kezia Amorim, 25, Anã community
“I had limited access to the square, but I still liked going. I remember that many of the toys had already collapsed, and the ones still standing were dangerous. I even had some accidents. But for me, it was important. I got to meet my friends, play, and be outside. I didn’t complain about anything—just being there, even among the remains, made me happy.”
—Milena Godinho, 19
Meaning
Anã’s first square marked an important milestone for both the students and community members who brought it to life. At its inauguration, the teachers who led the initiative handed out certificates to the participants—many of whom were receiving one for the very first time. This moment of recognition validated the power of collective effort and gave new meaning to the community’s contribution.
To this day, many parents who helped build the space reflect on the feeling of creating something for their children—a place where they could play safely, connect with others, and grow up with a deep sense of belonging to Anã. Childhood is when people develop most as human beings, and the square was meant to be a space where values, relationships, and identity could flourish.
The Progress
The space for the square still exists—a beautiful open area in front of the community, next to the church and along the banks of the Arapiuns River. The idea of rebuilding it had always been present, but without enough momentum or recognition as a priority, the project remained on hold for years.
That changed with the third session of the reFloresta Movement and the Workshop of the Future. During this time, the vision for a new square—on the same site as the original—was brought to life by the community itself. Many of those who once helped build the first square are now once again involved, supporting and shaping this new chapter.
The construction of the square
The dream coming true
The puxirum—also known as a mutirão—was a day-long collective effort. The project was led by Seu Danilo, one of the community’s leaders. Known for his work as a multi-artisan, carpenter, farmer, and for having one of the biggest hearts in Anã, he was invited to lead the square’s reconstruction—and he didn’t hesitate for a second. Alongside the reFloresta Movement, he co-designed the new playground. He sourced native wood from the forest and opened a clearing that would soon become a space for joy and gathering.
Danilo also designed all the wooden elements. Piece by piece, they came together to form a playground: complete with toys, swings, a slide, and shaded areas for children and adults to enjoy.
On the day of the puxirum, reFloresta volunteers and community members joined forces under Danilo’s guidance, assembling the playground from plans that existed only in his head. With nails, hammers, and collective energy, the playground slowly took shape—built with care, laughter, and a few bent nails along the way.
Children participated actively in the building of their own dream. Their presence energized everyone; their joy became the driving force behind each swing lifted and each beam placed. Help poured in from all directions—neighbors brought snacks and water, others jumped in to lend a hand.
Each time a new piece was finished, a wave of kids rushed to test it out. The puxirum became a celebration of community spirit, collaboration, and the passing on of traditional knowledge. From weaving the thatch to digging the foundations, the playground emerged as a symbol of what can be built when people come together—with sweat, laughter, and the strength of those who live where the Arapiuns River begins.
The result
The playground in Anã has brought life back to the community. Residents now have their own space to have fun just as they always dreamed. The children have a new home—one built with love and now filled with laughter and joy. Because the square is located in a well-ventilated and shaded area, it also serves as a space for outdoor gatherings and meetings.
