Conserve. Educate. Enjoy.
Our Mission
Our mission is to engage in protecting and restoring the treasured natural habitats of the Forest Preserves of Cook County and to enhance the outdoor experiences of all communities.
We will do this by encouraging and administering private gifts to further the Forest Preserves’ mission and goals.
The Foundation adopted its first strategic plan in September, 2015 to help guide its growth and impact. Read our 2016 Annual Report.
Founded in 2006, the Forest Preserve Foundation began with the belief that philanthropic giving could best supplement tax dollars that support the visionary goals of the Forest Preserves of Cook County.
In 2012, the Foundation actively started raising private funds, hosting the first Conservation Cup, its annual golf benefit. That year the Foundation granted $3,500 to the Forest Preserves.
In 2016, the Foundation awarded nearly $250,000 to support opportunities that allow families and children from a diversity of backgrounds to enjoy the forest preserves. Over its lifetime, the Foundation has granted in excess of $740,000 toward its primary goal: increasing access for all to the Cook County Forest Preserves.
To learn more about the Forest Preserve Foundation, view our one-pager here:
Programs
The Forest Preserve Foundation raises funds that support meaningful experiences in the Forest Preserves of Cook County, especially for youth who rarely have the chance to safely play and learn outdoors.
Grants
Since 2012, the Foundation has granted more than $740,000 to support programs that ease youth and family access to the wonders of the preserves and innovative educational programming.
News
Keep up with our programs and events by reading our new blog, where we share stories and reflections about the people and many places that makes the Preserves special.