The memory of West Caln boy Scotty McMillan will enrich the lives of other children in Downingtown thanks to generous support for the United Way of Chester County’s 10th Born Learning Trail.

The trail was dedicated to Scotty Thursday morning at the Struble Trail near Kardon Park.

Scotty McMillian died in 2014 after allegedly being beaten and tortured by those who were supposed to look after him. He was three years-old.

The learning trail features signs and stencils which literally lead parents and young children through language development activities. It’s the kind of fun learning little Scotty should have been joining in on as it’s so important for growing brains.

“Research tells us children are literally ‘born learning.’ That means five years of education take place before they ever enter kindergarten,” United Way CEO Claudia Hellebush said.

“Early learning is essential to success in school, which is essential to success in life. We’re thankful to all of our partners who help us bring these trails to communities across Chester County. We want to help parents, grandparents and other caregivers use everyday outings like trips to Struble Trail to support that learning.”

“It is a true indication of the compassion of Chester County citizens, to be moved by the tragedy of Scotty’s death in such a way that honors his memory and creates a program that will enthrall young children and their families every day,” added Chester County Commissioner Michele Kichline.

The Born Learning Trail also hosts a child-sized Little Free Library where preschool children can take a book and leave a book for others. Both installations were funded by the Siemens Caring Hands Foundation, Meridian Bank and Home Depot in Downingtown, and put up by volunteers from VOYA and the Chester County Department of Facilities and Parks.

Read more about the nine other Born Learning Trails and various Little Free Libraries in past VISTA Today coverage here.