Illinois Park and Recreation Foundation-IPRF

06/11/2026

IPRF Scholarship Highlight

Dawn Schaefer, Executive Director for Kishwaukee Special Recreation Association

"I am truly grateful for the opportunity to attend the Financial Sustainability Certificate Program this past March. Although I had heard Jamie Sabbach speak at various conferences over the years, being part of this cohort and having direct access to her expertise was an exceptional experience. Her guidance provided a deeper, more strategic framework for understanding financial sustainability for today and building towards the future. I am sincerely appreciative of the IPRF scholarship that made this experience possible, and I look forward to applying what I learned to strengthen both my professional practice and the long‑term stability of my agency."

05/28/2026

The IPRF held a Board Social yesterday in Morris, IL. Foundation board members met up to learn about the IL state fossil - The Tully Monster. It was a beautiful day for a self-guided walking tour of downtown Morris, and a great opportunity for board members to connect in-person on our collective mission.

05/21/2026

Did you know the Illinois Park & Recreation Foundation does more than scholarships? The Foundation is the fiscal sponsor for this year's 2026 ProConnect Mentorship Program. IPRF funds helped to both cover program costs and reduce registration rates for members statewide. We value and support IPRA members at every point in their career. The time, treasure, and talent of experienced professionals goes back to support the next generation of leaders in parks, recreation, and conservation.

05/07/2026

The Illinois Park & Recreation Foundation's annual Golf Outing supports the Park & Recreation profession and makes a charitable impact! Proceeds go to professional scholarships, education workshops, disaster relief funds, and diversity initiatives.

https://tinyurl.com/iprfgolf

This year, registration sold out in under 24 hours! However, we are maintaining a waitlist for additional golfers. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for companies and organizations to put themselves in front of over 140 dedicated leaders from our profession.

04/09/2026

Introducing the IPRF Quarterly Review! Illinois Park & Recreation Foundation's newsletter will share the Foundation's stories and success. Keep current with Foundation programming, learn about the impact of our work, and find opportunities to support the Foundation.

https://members.ilipra.org/ap/EmailViewer/rZeJbR1L

01/30/2026

We are thrilled to share that the Silent Auction and Raffle raised over $7,500 in support of our mission! This incredible result would not have been possible without your support and the generosity of our community.

We do want to note that there are two auction items that were not purchased during the event. These items are now available online at Buy It Now prices and may be purchased at the following link:
https://www.32auctions.com/IPRFbuynow

In addition, both items will be available for viewing at the IPRA Information Booth on Saturday for anyone who may be interested in purchasing them in person.

Thank you to each of you, and to everyone who donated items, promoted the auction, volunteered, purchased tickets, and encouraged participation. The collective effort truly made a difference, and the success of this fundraiser reflects the strength of our network and shared commitment.

Silent auction 'IPRF Silent Auction - Buy it Now' hosted online at 32auctions.

01/30/2026

Last chance! Get your bids in now!

01/30/2026

Bidding closes in 15 minutes!

01/30/2026

Keep an eye on your prize!! Bidding closes in under 2 hours! 32auctions.com/iprf

01/29/2026

So many amazing prizes, so little time! Stop by the Silent Auction today - We're here to answer your questions (and take your bids) until 5pm. Bid all night long at 32auctions.com/iprf. Bidding closes tomorrow (Friday, January 30) at 3pm. Proceeds benefit IPRF initiatives and scholarships!