On Thursday, September 5th, 2024, the Forest Preserve Foundation’s 13th annual Conservation Cup drew golfers and non-golfers from across Cook County to the stunning George Dunne National Golf Course in Southwest suburban Oak Forest. Guests were welcomed by blue skies, fluffy white clouds, rich green forests, shimmering lakes, and bright yellow blooms of native goldenrod in this Forest Preserve gem of a course.
The event raised over $182,000 to care for the treasured public lands of the Forest Preserves of Cook County and support programming that nurtures the next generation of environmental leaders. This year’s Conservation Cup Committee, chaired by Julie Conenna and Anngie Richter, designed a delightful day filled with games on and off the course.
“I’m extremely grateful for the generous sponsorship and continued support for this year’s Conservation Cup. The weather was perfect, setting the stage for a day filled with laughter, great company, and an enjoyable day on the golf course,” said Julie Conenna, an avid golfer, “A big shoutout to everyone that joined us and made the day unforgettable.”
Co-chair, Anngie Richter, who also serves on the Foundation’s board, enjoys the Conservation Cup, even though she doesn’t golf. “It’s great to see so many participants and volunteers coming together to support the Foundation. Restoring and safeguarding our natural resources is crucial for our communities. Creating habitats for everyone to enjoy enhances quality of life, boosts mental health, and helps combat the challenges posed by climate change.”
While Anngie doesn’t golf, she got a kick out of the air cannon.
The day began with check-in, games galore to play, animal ambassadors to meet along with knowledgable naturalists, and a bloody mary bar.
Committee member and Board Vice Chair LeeAnn Foster-Tomas was thrilled with her new Foundation insulated tumbler that served as the perfect vessel for the Bloody Mary Bar.
Sand Ridge Nature Center Naturalist Lanie Rambo and Animal Ambassador Specialist Nicolette Vanderwarren shared their wealth of knowledge about animal ambassadors, a Fox Snake and Eastern Box Turtle.
Golfers gathered in their carts for the "Shotgun Program" (no shotguns involved) with President Preckwinkle, Interim General Superintendent Eileen Figel, Foundation President and Exectuive Director Debra Walker Johnson, and Indigo Sports Regional Manager.
Out on the course, experienced golfers mingled with novices. Though some serious competition ensued on this challenging terrain, there were also sympathetic sighs over a near miss, helpful pointers, and kind encouragement, More than anything, these foursomes were having FUN!
As golfers returned from the green and dinner-only guests arrived, lively music wafted from the tented pavilion, inviting everyone to connect at a cocktail reception and dinner program.
Some happy Buckets of Fun Winners!
“I was truly inspired by the huge impact the Foundation provides to meaningful youth programs, such as the Conservation Corps.” – Julie Conenna
“I especially enjoy hearing from our program participants and hearing their passion for habitat restoration and conservation.” – Anngie Richter
The evening program offered the opportunity for guests to learn more about how their support helps the Preserves and people thrive. After Foundation President Debra Walker Johnson and Board Chair Theresa Salus expressed their gratitude and spoke about the Foundation, Alice Brandon, Conservation Corps Manager at the Forest Preserves of Cook County shared her enthusiasm and knowledge about restoration at the Preserves.
Alice then introduced Arianna Telles, Conservation Corps Gap Year participant and Chicago Conservation Leadership Corps Assistant Crew Leader. Arianna told the story of a little girl who once wandered in the woods and now, grown, is learning to restore the forests so dear to her. This story, her story, filled the tent with wonder and passion.
Watch her speech HERE.
"We are truly grateful for supporters who made this success possible. You provide the resources needed to restore the preserves to full health and foster the next generation of environmental advocates and young leaders. By investing in programs and opportunities that are proactively inclusive and reflective of the diversity of Cook County, together we support both preserves and people in our communities." - Debra Walker Johnson
The Foundation looks forward to seeing everyone again next year!
Thursday, September 4, 2025
Save the date!
