Brochures Summer 2017 | Page 8

Parks Foundation of Highland Park To maintain our vibrant park system, the Park District of Highland Park has joined the ranks of 2,000 park districts nationwide that are benefitting from grant and donation opportunities that only a Foundation can provide. The Parks Foundation of Highland Park is an independent, community-led, 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization created to support the mission of the Park District of Highland Park “To enrich community life through healthy leisure pursuits and an appreciation for the natural world” Meeting the growing and changing needs of the community and keeping taxes and program fees in check requires a delicate balance. The Parks Foundation bridges the gap between public resources and the need to maintain a vibrant park system by: • Raising funds through private and corporate contributions, grants, and in-kind donations to enhance the Park District of Highland Park’s delivery of quality recreation programs, services, facilities • Providing scholarship funds for participants experiencing economic difficulty through the SMILE Grant-in-Aid program • Identifying, cultivating and inspiring advocates and supporters to promote generous giving of time, talents, and treasure to ensure the availability of a quality park system DID YOU KNOW? • Only 6% of resident property tax is paid to the Park District • Property taxes support approx. 50% of the park district operating costs to maintain nine facilities, over 700 acres of land, and 3,000 programs • The remaining 50% is derived from user fees, memberships, grants, and donations Get Involved Become a member… the Parks Foundation is currently seeking Board members. The Foundation Board supports the mission and work of the Foundation and provides mission- based leadership and strategic governance to the Foundation. Serving as a Board member is an extraordinary opportunity for an individual who has a passion for the Park District and the services it provides. Board members will have a desire to dedicate time, talent, and treasure to support the District’s delivery of quality parks, facilities, and recreation programs for community members of all ages. Make a donation… as a 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization the Parks Foundation may accept contributions, gifts, items or bequests from foundations, organizations, and individuals. You can make a donation online at pdhp.org or mail your donation to: Parks Foundation of Highland Park 636 Ridge Rd Highland Park, IL 60004 For more information on the Parks Foundation of Highland Park please contact Liza McElroy at 847.579.3108 or email [email protected]. Keeping Great “Parks” in Highland Park