Kempton Howard Park

In the heart of Riverdale, Toronto, lies Kempton Howard Park. It’s a place where the echoes of laughter mingle with the whispers of the past. Kempton Howard Park wasn’t always its name. It was once known as Eastview Park, a simple green space nestled beside the Eastview Neighbourhood Community Centre. The park, much like the community it served, was a vibrant hub. Children darted across the playground, the rhythmic crack of bats hitting baseballs filled the air, and the wading pool offered a cool respite on hot summer days. Kempton Howard Park is more than just swings and baseball diamonds. It stands as a testament to the life and legacy of Kempton Howard, a dedicated youth worker at the Eastview Boys & Girls Clubs of Canada. Tragically, in December 2003, Kempton’s life was cut short. His loss reverberated through the community, leaving a void that could never truly be filled. In 2007, the city of Toronto decided to rename the park in his honor. It was a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to nurturing the city’s youth. The renaming ceremony was a poignant moment, attended by local officials, community members, and Howard’s family. Today, Kempton Howard Park continues to be a vital part of the Riverdale community. The baseball diamond, with its wired field screen, is a constant reminder of the games Kempton Howard likely watched and perhaps even played. The laughter of children echoes his spirit, a spirit of dedication, service, and unwavering commitment to the youth of his community. Kempton Howard Park is a testament to a life well-lived and a symbol of hope for the future.