Mission
The mission of the Fox Valley Park Foundation is to aid the Fox Valley Park District in the acquisition, conservation, preservation and development of land and open space and to provide funds for youth enrichment recreation programs.
History
The Foundation was established in 1981 as a not-for-profit corporation to help benefit the Fox Valley Park District. The Park Foundation is an IRS 501(c) (3) organization. Its board is comprised of Park District Trustees and members from the community. Board members meet twice a year—in May and September.
Board Members
Foundation Board of Directors:
John McGary, President
Al Miller, Vice President
Emily DeMar, Assistant Treasurer
Kristina Bohman, Trustee
Linda Cole, Trustee
Theodia Gillespie, Trustee
Charles Myler, Trustee
Sal Rios, Trustee
Rose Smilgys, Trustee
Staff Members assisting the Foundation Board:
Steve Messerli, Executive Director
Nancy McCaul, Treasurer
Debbie Thompson, Secretary
Attorney for the Foundation Board:
Patrick Kinnally
Gifts
Charitable gifts may be made to the Park Foundation in cash, securities, life insurance or real estate. The donor may designate the purpose of the gift or gifts can be designated for the area of greatest need. Gifts may be made in memory of a relative or friend. All gifts are deductible to the extent allowed under federal income, gift and estate tax laws. Call 630-966-4516 for information.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
The Park District has several opportunities through which to leave a lasting legacy. Some specific contributions the Foundation has received include the following:
- Planting a tree in memory of a loved one. $500 Memorial
- Endowments for continuation of Park District programs or special events, such as Friendly Center Club for Active Adults age 55 and older.
- Scholarships for children, such as the Brendon Anderson Memorial Basketball Scholarship.
- Placing a park bench in a serene setting with a loved one’s name on a plaque. $1,000 Memorial
Fund-raisers
The Park Foundation hosts one major fund-raiser per year to benefit the youth of the community. This fund-raiser is the Golf for Kids benefit golf outing held at Orchard Valley Golf Course in Aurora. Proceeds from this event provide funding for a wide variety of youth activities including The First Tee Youth Golf Program. For more information on the Golf for Kids Benefit, check the website or call 630-966-4516.
