Greetings, Wash Park residents! This month, we are delighted to introduce you to James Creasey, the passionate founder of Jiminy Wicket, an organization that uses the game of croquet to bring joy and connection to individuals of all ages and abilities. James’ journey from the corporate world to the croquet lawn is as inspiring as it is transformative.

Fifteen years ago, James was at the helm of a Denver-based publishing company, ensuring its continued success while keeping the corporate culture of Wall Street at bay. His commitment to maintaining a positive company culture led him to discover croquet at a summer picnic. The game instantly resonated with him, providing a sense of joy and relaxation he had not experienced before. He was reminded of his love of play. 

Shortly after leaving the corporate world, James’ father was diagnosed with vascular dementia. To support his mother, who was his father's primary caregiver, James committed to spending time with his father, engaging him in activities that could bring them both joy. It was during a family trip to Cornwall, England, that James introduced his father to croquet. The game became a bridge, allowing them to connect and communicate in a way that transcended words.

Moved by the profound impact croquet had on his father and those around them, James decided to bring the game to others facing similar challenges. He returned to Colorado and initiated a program with the local chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, playing croquet with individuals living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Thus, Jiminy Wicket was founded, and now for over a decade James and his team have been bringing smiles to countless faces, proving the therapeutic power of play. 

James’ vision for Jiminy Wicket expanded further when he was invited to introduce croquet and expand the horizons at the Florida Special Olympics Youth Summit. The response was overwhelmingly positive, leading to the inclusion of croquet in schools and plans for a significant presence at the 2026 USA Summer Games in Minnesota. The game’s accessibility and inclusivity make it a perfect fit for individuals with intellectual disabilities, allowing everyone to engage at their own pace.

James Creasey believes in the transformative power of play. His advice to the residents of Wash Park is simple yet profound: “When we play together, we suspend judgment and engage in a way that creates genuine human connections. Play is universal and brings us together, regardless of age or ability.”

James invites you to embrace the spirit of play, whether through croquet or any other activity that brings you joy. He encourages everyone to find ways to connect with others and create moments of shared happiness. Jiminy Wicket’s impact is measured in smiles per hour (SPH), a testament to the joy that play can bring to our lives.

Jiminy Wicket is on a mission to expand its reach and bring the joy of croquet to more individuals across the country. This year, they aim to raise $100,000 to support their initiatives in Florida and beyond. You can support their cause and get involved by participating in their fundraising events, such as high-end croquet trips in the United Kingdom, or by simply spreading the word about their work.

James Creasey’s journey from corporate executive to croquet evangelist is a remarkable story of passion, resilience, and the enduring power of play. Through Jiminy Wicket, he has touched the lives of many, fostering connections and bringing joy to those who need it most. We are proud to have him as part of our community and look forward to seeing the continued impact of his work.

So, Wash Park residents, let’s take James’ advice to heart: find your way to play, connect with others, and embrace the joy that comes with it. Together, we can create a community that thrives on smiles and shared experiences.

Learn more at www.jiminywicket.org