BMO Harris Bank Supports Naperville Parks Foundation and Scholarships
BMO Harris Bank recently announced a generous $5,000 contribution to the Naperville Parks Foundation, jump starting the Foundation's 2015 goal to raise support for Naperville Park District recreation scholarships.
The Naperville Park District has offered a scholarship program since 1985 to provide the opportunity for residents who are struggling economically to enjoy recreation programs of their choice. In recent years this program has grown steadily, reflecting the reality of financial need even in suburban communities like Naperville. In fact, the Naperville Park District has seen requests for recreation scholarships more than triple between 2008 and 2014.
"Seeing that the need for scholarships keeps growing, the Foundation wants to help provide funds that will directly benefit those experiencing financial hardships in our community," said Naperville Parks Foundation President Jim Healy.
The Naperville Parks Foundation was formed in 2011 to benefit the community's parks and open space as well as the Park District's scholarship program and other special projects. The Foundation has set its major 2015 goal to support the Park District's scholarship program, inviting area businesses and individuals to contribute toward this program.
"When we partner with local non-profits like the Naperville Parks Foundation we try to make an impact on the greatest needs in the community," explained BMO Harris Bank Naperville Market Leader Chris Michalski. "We also hope that the BMO Harris Bank name-and what it stands for-will encourage prospective donors to the support the organization."
In addition to providing parks and open space that is free to the public and benefits everyone, the Park District's recreation programs give kids and adults opportunities for healthy physical activity, inspiration in exploring new interests, and a chance to meet new friends.
"We are grateful for partnerships with the Foundation and businesses like BMO Harris Bank that help the District make the benefits of recreation available to everyone, especially in times of financial stress," said Executive Director Ray McGury.
Corporations and individuals can support the Naperville Parks Foundation in several ways. The second annual Naperville Winter Ale Fest is coming to Frontier Sports Complex from 12:00 noon-4:00 p.m. on Feb. 28. Part of the proceeds from the festival will benefit the Foundation, going directly to the scholarship program. For tickets and more information, visit http://www.napervillewinteralefest.com/tickets/.
Individuals are invited to make a donation to the Naperville Parks Foundation when registering for a Park District program at www.napervilleparks.org. Simply check the donation box in the payment form.
Corporations interested in contributing to the Foundation may contact Brett Lindahl at blindahl@napervilleparks.org or call 630-848-3575.