“The Parks Foundation of Oak Park donates $10,000 to PDOP’s Scholarship Fund”

The Park District of Oak Park received a generous donation of $10,000 from the Parks Foundation to support its Scholarship Fund. The District’s Scholarship Fund is available to assist under-resourced individuals and families who lack financial access participate in Park District programs.

Each year, the Parks Foundation supports the Scholarship Fund with donations secured from hosting fundraising events along with individual gifts. Edward Kerros, Parks Foundation vice president, stated “We believe in fostering connections and building community among Oak Park residents. Participating in Park District programming affords all individuals the opportunity to do just that.”
Jan Arnold, executive director, said “The Parks Foundation is an invaluable partner and supports the Park District in many ways. We are especially grateful for their support of our Scholarship Fund as their donations aide in our efforts to ensure equitable access to our parks and programs.”

Scholarships are awarded on an annual basis to each individual in a qualifying household. Funds may be applied to all Park District programs, including classes, passes, and special events reducing the cost of a program up to 75%. Applications for the 2023 Scholarship Fund will be released online December 1. Individuals are encouraged to apply for funds each year. Please visit pdop.org/scholarships.

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About Park District of Oak Park: The Park District of Oak Park serves the recreation needs of Oak Park’s 53,000 residents, providing nearly 3,000 programs and special events annually throughout our versatile recreation centers, 18 parks totaling 84 acres, two outdoor pools, indoor ice rink, gymnastic center, the Oak Park Conservatory, Cheney Mansion and Pleasant Home. Since 1912, our high-quality programs and well-maintained parks and facilities have dependably met residents’ diverse leisure, wellness, childcare and other needs and helped enhance quality of life. Learn more at https://www.pdop.org/.

About the Parks Foundation of Oak Park: The Parks Foundation promotes giving opportunities around Oak Park parks and to support extraordinary projects within the Park District of Oak Park. Its mission is to collaborate with Oak Park residents, community groups and partner organizations to support exceptional and extraordinary projects that enhance our parks and community life. Founded in 2012, the Foundation is chartered with the State of Illinois as a 501(c)3 charitable organization. While a separate and independent entity, the Foundation coordinates closely with the Park District of Oak Park to help address community health, recreation and wellness needs for all. For more information, visit the Parks Foundation website at: https://parksfoundationop.org.