For more than 50 years, the St. Charles Park Foundation has strengthened the St. Charles Park District by raising funds and accepting charitable gifts that enhance parks, recreation programs and community opportunities for residents of all ages.
“The Foundation is really the best way to support the Park District,” said St. Charles Park Foundation Board President Jayne Beck. “Every dollar donated helps provide opportunities for people to participate in programs, stay active and enjoy everything our parks have to offer.”
The Foundation is inviting the community to its fourth annual A Night on the Fox on Friday, July 31. Guests ages 21 and older will enjoy an evening aboard the St. Charles Park District’s paddlewheel riverboat featuring live music, appetizers, desserts, drink tickets and raffle basket drawings while cruising the Fox River. A limited number of tickets are still available at stcparkfoundation.org/events.
Proceeds from events like A Night on the Fox directly support initiatives such as the Foundation’s Financial Aid Program, which helps remove financial barriers to recreation by assisting economically challenged youth, families and individuals with the cost of Park District programs and fitness memberships.
“The need for financial aid has grown tremendously over the past several years,” Beck said. “We’re seeing more families turn to the Park District for affordable recreation, and we’re proud to help ensure those opportunities remain accessible.”
The impact of the program continues to grow. In 2017, the Financial Aid Program provided $10,000 in assistance to 95 families and individuals. By 2024, the program awarded $60,000 in financial assistance to nearly 300 participants and families.
Financial Aid supports participation across every stage of life—from toddlers enrolled in early childhood programs to older adults maintaining healthy lifestyles through fitness memberships and recreational activities.
The Foundation’s fundraising efforts continue this fall with Pistons for the Parks on Sept. 12 at James O. Breen Community Park. The free community event features a juried showcase of vintage vehicles with People’s Choice, Kid’s Choice and Grand Champion awards. Vehicle owners may register for a small participation fee, with proceeds benefiting the Foundation. The event is held in partnership with the St. Charles Park District’s annual Big Truck Show.
In addition to its special events, the Foundation offers year-round giving opportunities through its Memorial Program. Community members can honor loved ones or celebrate special milestones with Memorial Trees, Memorial Benches and commemorative pavers at Pottawatomie Park.
Pet lovers can also create a lasting tribute at Delnor Woods Park’s Dog Memorial, home to the Timeless Tags sculpture. Visitors are invited to leave a pet ID tag on the sculpture in memory of a beloved companion, creating a colorful and meaningful community memorial.
“The Foundation allows us to build on an already outstanding Park District,” Beck said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to know that our community’s generosity helps ensure everyone has the opportunity to experience the benefits of parks and recreation.”
To learn more about the St. Charles Park Foundation, upcoming events or ways to give, visit stcparkfoundation.org.