Foundation Grants $33,000 in Support for Members in Need
Five years ago, the Trustees of the Illinois Park and Recreation Foundation (IPRF) established the Special Assistance and Disaster Relief Fund to support the members of the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) who have fallen on hard times. Little did they know how important this decision would become for IPRA members in 2020!
Dedicated stewardship and generous gifts grew the fund and when an acute need presented itself due the pandemic, IPRF was able to offer two pandemic relief grants to IPRA members who were significantly impacted by COVID-19 or the subsequent economic downturn. Sixty-six (66), $500 grants were distributed to IPRA members totaling $33,000 in distributions!
“IPRF is committed to the support of the IPRA membership. It is during these times where it is critical for us to step up, lead the charge and set the tone. We need to make sure the IPRA members we serve understand we are here to lend a hand, a shoulder or financial assistance. Will you help us? Invest in your fellow professionals, especially during one of their most challenging times. This pandemic cuts deeper than just their careers, it has affected their families and livelihood.” - Mike Kies, IPRF Chair
As we all know, the pandemic, layoffs, sickness, and health care costs continue. Hope for the pandemic's demise remains in our hearts and IPRF remains firmly committed to serve IPRA members throughout its duration. Thank you for your generosity and partnership in this noble effort. Would you consider a one-time donation to support a third round of relief grants in 2021? Thank you! We can't do it without you.