DeKalb, IL—The DeKalb Parks Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit created to support equitable access to parks and recreation for all community members. With a focus on social equity, health and wellness, and conservation, the Foundation will play a critical role in ensuring that everyone, regardless of income, can benefit from the transformative power of parks and programs. Established in 2025, the nonprofit hopes to continue to expand access to the local community in its second year of operation through fundraising efforts.
The Foundation is participating for its second year in Give DeKalb County on Thursday, May 7, joining over 100 nonprofit organizations in a one-day online giving campaign to raise funds for local causes. Community members can show their support by donating to givedekalbcounty.org/organizations/dekalb-parks-foundation
“We are committed to strengthening community connections and expanding access to DeKalb Park District programs,” said Paul Zepezauer, Executive Director of the DeKalb Park District and Board President of DeKalb Parks Foundation.
In addition to Zepezauer, the Foundation’s board also includes Chrissy Tluczek, Superintendent of Recreation, and Mat Emken, Superintendent of Parks—each bringing extensive experience and a shared dedication to improving the quality of life for DeKalb residents.
“On May 7th, we invite our community to join us in supporting the DeKalb Parks Foundation through Give DeKalb County. Every donation—no matter the size—helps expand access to recreation programs, provide scholarships for families, and enhance the parks and green spaces that bring our community together,” said Tluczek. “Your generosity helps ensure that every DeKalb resident has the opportunity to play, connect, and thrive for generations to come.”
The Foundation is also underway with planning the 20th Annual Golf Fore the Kids Scholarship Golf Outing on Friday, June 19 (rain date June 26), at River Heights Golf Course, 1020 Sharon Drive. Open to participants ages 16 and older, this popular event raises essential funds for the District’s Scholarship Assistance Program, which helps families in need of access to youth programs, camps, and recreation opportunities.
Golfers can look forward to:
- 18 holes of golf with a cart
- Lunch and drink tickets
- A buffet-style dinner
- Swag bag and hat for the first 100 golfers
- Raffles, golden ticket blind bogey winners, and an awards ceremony
Participants can register in advance for $100 per individual or $360 per foursome. Day-of registration is $400 per foursome. Dinner-only tickets are also available for $30, which include access to the evening dinner selection and ability to participate in raffles.
Register, donate, or sponsor at: https://www.dekalbparksfoundation.org/golf-fore-the-kids-fundraiser or email DeKalb Park District Marketing Manager, Mikayla Wilhelm, at mwilhelm@dekalbparkdistrict.com
This fundraiser outing is proudly presented by the Larson and Darby Group.
For more information about the DeKalb Parks Foundation and more ways to give back to DeKalb, visit dekalbparksfoundation.org
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