Community Corner
Sponsors sought for Forest Preserve District’s 2027 Centennial Celebration
A variety of sponsorships are being offered by The Nature Foundation of Will County as a way to show support for the District.
The Forest Preserve District of Will County will mark its 100th anniversary in 2027, and businesses and organizations are invited to be part of the milestone as Centennial Celebration sponsors.
The Nature Foundation of Will County, the Forest Preserve’s nonprofit fundraising partner, is offering sponsorships ranging from $1,000 to $100,000, with benefits extending throughout the centennial year. A full list of sponsorship benefits is available at willcountynature.org.
“Now is the time to show your support for the Forest Preserve District’s past and future preservation, conservation, education and recreation programs and activities,” said Foundation Executive Director Tara Neff. “It’s a way to align yourself with the Forest Preserve’s mission and show that you care about and support Will County’s natural and cultural resources.”
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Sponsorships will be accepted throughout 2027, but sponsors must commit by Oct. 31, 2026, to take full advantage of all benefits available at their selected level.
The levels are: Bald Eagle Partner, $100,000; Osprey Sponsor, $50,000; Swainson's Hawk Sponsor, $25,000; Northern Harrier Sponsor, $10,000; American Kestrel Sponsor, $5,000l Party Supporter: $1,000.
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“The most important thing is the visibility sponsors will get from partnering with us,” Neff said.
The Forest Preserve’s website receives more than 1 million visits annually, while its social media platforms generate 40 million views a year and have a combined 510,000 followers. The District also operates six visitor centers and 40 preserves throughout Will County.
Benefits vary by sponsorship level and include logo placement on Forest Preserve signs and event promotions, recognition in the Compass digital newsletter and at visitor centers, and recognition at the July 24 Cheers to 100 Years celebration at Hickory Creek Preserve.
“Some of the events will be new, and some will be our tried-and-true offerings, including the Be a Trailblazer scavenger hunt, Eagle Watch, Maple Syrup Magic and more,” Neff said. “It’s the things you already love about the preserves with a little extra oomph.”
