There’s an easy way to stretch dollars to purchase equipment, complete a project or make improvements to a South Suburban Parks and Recreation (SSPR) park or property. The Matching Gifts Program encourages neighborhoods, homeowner associations, sports groups, businesses and other organizations to partner with SSPR in the continuing development and improvement of SSPR parks, facilities and programs.

The program allows your funds to be matched with SSPR funds to leverage dollars for a project or purchase of equipment. SSPR's Matching Gifts Program also creates the opportunity for interested groups and individuals to provide a meaningful gift to the community.

Requests for funding must be in writing and meet certain requirements. Applications requesting less than $2,000 are highly recommended. Applications for the Matching Gifts Program are due by Friday, March 6, 2020.

SSPR's Board of Directors has allocated up to $15,000 to the Matching Gifts Program for 2020. All projects approved must be completed in 2020. Examples of eligible projects include development or improvements to playgrounds; general park improvements, e.g., benches, drinking fountains; special equipment to support group activities, e.g., scoreboards, athletic equipment; and beautification projects, e.g., trees, flower and shrub beds and more.

To learn more, read the program guidelines, and complete the Matching Gifts Application.  Don't delay, applications are due by 5 p.m., Friday, March 6, 2020.