OUR MISSION

Philanthropy, Stewardship & Partnership

FOR THE LOVE OF OUR PARKS.

Burlington Parks & Recreation
are a Treasure.

They provide space to come together as a community. They may also provide refuge for those seeking solitude and peace. They are places where we meet, meditate, and marvel. Whether on a path by the lake, in the heart of Burlington, or deep in the woods, our parks connect us to the natural world and to one another.

Our community is strengthened through our commitment to preserving and enhancing Burlington’s parks and recreation assets for this generation and for those that follow.

Mission. Values. Purpose.

Parks Foundation of Burlington seeks to inspire the spirit of stewardship and philanthropy for our community's treasured parks and recreation assets for our residents and visitors.The Foundation seeks opportunities for self-sustaining support that will not impose a burden on the City of Burlington’s Parks, Recreation, and Waterfront Department’s annual operating budget.

Parks Foundation of Burlington is an independent, 501(c)3 nonprofit, governed by its Board of Directors. The Foundation operates in collaboration with Burlington Parks, Recreation and Waterfront Department, aligning its priorities with the Department’s strategic initiatives and projects.

In its role, the Foundation acts as the umbrella fundraising organization for all Parks, Recreation and Waterfront philanthropy. This allows the great work of current friends and volunteer groups to continue to raise funds in support of designated projects.

The Foundation also:

Applies for grants for which government agencies are not eligible.
Solicits and accepts estate gifts that provide support for future improvements to our city's recreational resources.
Serves as the fiscal agent for the proper stewardship of those funds while maintaining the relationship with the City to assure the money raised is spent on appropriate projects.
Focuses on partnerships throughout the community to advance its mission.