Nature Foundation's Donations Support Forest Preserve Programs

ROMEOVILLE, IL — The Forest Preserve District of Will County received more than $21,000 in donations from The Nature Foundation of Will County in 2021.

The funding supported Forest Preserve nature activities, programs and exhibits that benefited preserve visitors, according to the preserve.

According to a fundraising summary presented at the February Forest Preserve Board of Commissioners meeting, an additional $20,000 from last year's funding was rolled into 2022 to help complete the All-Persons Interpretive Trail Project at the Four Rivers Environmental Education Center in Channahon.

In January, $45,000 in new funding was also awarded to the forest preserve for 2022 programs, exhibits and nature work, the preserve said.

“We’re pretty excited about these programs and projects and are deeply grateful for our donors and supporters,” said Foundation Executive Director Cindy Harn at the Forest Preserve's Board meeting. “Their generosity, and this Board’s commitment to public service and excellence are really why we are here today.”

Harn presented the District with a check for $17,200, a portion of the 2022 funding, which will be used for: the care and feeding of the Forest Preserve’s animal ambassadors; “The Way We Worked” exhibit at Isle a la Cache Museum in Romeoville; “The Buzz” nature show's monthly time slot on WJYS TV, the District's nature website for kids Willy’s Wilderness.org; the Preserve the Moment Photo Contest; and the upcoming "The Preserves are for You" promotional campaign.

Forest Preserve Board President Joe VanDuyne said he and his fellow commissioners really appreciate the Foundation's efforts.

“The Forest Preserve could not provide these excellent and amazing services without the help of the Nature Foundation, so thank you so much,” he said in a release.

2021 Foundation support went to the Sculpting Wild Juried Art Contest at Plum Creek Nature Center, the National Parks Endangered Animals Quilt Exhibition at all four visitor centers, the Don't Be a Zombie Exhibit at Plum Creek, the Woods Walk program, and land stewardship and youth service programs throughout the District, according to the preserve.

In 2022, the Foundation will seek more sponsorships; expand its volunteer opportunities; host native plant seminars and sales, both online and in-person; and offer a summer concert at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, according to the preserve.