Gifting

Western Springs Friends of the Parks Foundation

The Western Springs Friends of the Park Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing ways to help care for the Western Springs Parks. Every year gifts from numerous individuals, companies, and organizations help the Park District carry out its mission to maintain 13 parks, totaling nearly 91 acres in our community.

We are grateful you’re reflecting on the park district and your experiences by connecting a gift to a project, or program that’s had an effect on you!

History

The foundation was formed in 1998 for the sole purpose of soliciting, receiving and allocating financial and other resources to fund or enhance capital projects at one or more of the 13 parks in Western Springs. The Foundation operates independently from the Western Springs Park District Board and the normal budgetary processes of the Park District. However, the Foundation Board works closely with the Park Board to help finance capital improvement projects that are consistent with the Park District’s long-range goals and plans.

As its first project in the late 90's, the Foundation assisted the Park District in funding a walking and riding path around Spring Rock Park. The Foundation has also assisted in distributing funds raised by neighborhood groups to benefit renovation of several playgrounds over the years.  These Parks include: Laidlaw Park, Veterans Park and Ridgewood Park. The Foundation has also contributed funds for other paths at Spring Rock Park and most recently a new pavilion at Laidlaw Park.

Benefits of Giving to the Friends of the Parks Foundation:

• Personal Satisfaction
  Enjoy seeing the Western Springs community share the benefits of your contribution. Give back to your community by funding future park projects that may not otherwise be possible. Your monetary contribution will nurture our community spirit, protect and preserve our Park District resources, and promote the health and welfare of our residents.
• Memorials
  Remember friends and loved ones in a tangible way with a gift that perpetuates a warm memory and respected name.
• Tax Benefits
  Realize a savings on your taxes. The Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) organization, and all contributions are tax deductible.
  
  

Ways to Contribute to the Friends of the Parks Foundation:

• Bequests
  Decide in advance how you want your assets to be shared. You may designate a preferred area of interest, a Park District project or local neighborhood park to be assured your wishes will be fulfilled.
• Trusts
  Working with your attorney and financial advisor, you may determine that a trust is the most beneficial to both you as a donor and the Foundation.
• Memorials
  Capital improvement memorials, including a plaque “in memory of” or “in honor of…” are available.
• Gifts and Donations
  Personal property, land, appreciating securities, and cash contributions in any amount make welcome gifts to the Foundation.