OUR PURPOSE

The Western Springs Friends of the Parks Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to promoting the use of parks and open space. We believe that by collaborating and combining our resources, we can execute our vision of creating quality park spaces that are open to all members of the community to relax, work and play.

We are a 501(c)(3) corporation, (our letter of exemption status can be downloaded here) 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 12 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.

OUR HISTORY

As its first project, the Friends of the Parks assisted the Park District in funding a walking and riding path around Spring Rock Park. The Foundation has assisted in distributing funds raised by neighborhood groups to benefit renovation of the playgrounds areas at Laidlaw Park, Veterans Park and Ridgewood Park, including Patrick’s Playground. The Friends of the Parks oversaw funds for paths to the new Spring Rock Park pavilion. Currently, the Friends of the Parks is supporting the efforts to fund a new sound curtain for the tennis community.

GET INVOLVED

  • Donate – You can donate online or mail a check directly to Western Springs Friends of the Park Foundation. (Attn: Angelo Velliotis at 4400 Central Ave., Western Springs IL 60558. Please specify if there is a specific project you want to support). 

  • Organize a Project – Have an idea for a Parks related project? Please contact us to discuss how we can work together.

  • Join the Friends of the Parks – Please reach out if you’d like to get involved on a regular basis and support our mission.

  • Assist in spreading the word about the Friends of the Parks

  • Inquire at your company about charitable matching contribution programs.