Continuation of Double Market Buck Program associated with the Farmer’s Market
The Double Market Bucks Program continues at Bloomington’s Community Farmers Market as a result of the Foundation role in facilitating external grant securement. Grant funds to BPF, “in the form of a one-time payment, for the Double Market Bucks Program, provide for an innovative project designed to improve low-income people’s access to the nutrient dense, fresh, local food available at the Market. The Double Market Bucks program seeks funding to “match” transfers at Market: when SNAP customers purchase Market Bucks, they will receive an additional equal amount of vouchers to use at Market. The Market Bucks may be used to purchase fresh, locally-produced fruits, vegetables, bread, meats, eggs, and cheeses. Because the Market Bucks are spent exclusively at Market, it ensures the economic benefits stay in the community and the funds help support small farmers.”
Successful Golf Scramble
Another successful Don Brineman Memorial Golf Scramble took place on August 28, 2024 at Cascades Golf Course to support youth scholarships and programs associated with Bloomington Parks and Recreation. Teders & Quackenbush was once again the Presenting Sponsor; Nature’s Way was the Cart Sponsor; and IU Credit Union was the Driving Range Sponsor. The 2024 event again featured a hole-in-one contest, as well as participation from Indiana University varsity golf athletes who provided opportunities for free drives and putts.
Scholarship Support for Kids
Approximately $18,000 was provided in scholarships to support youth involvement in Bloomington Parks and Recreation programs. Approximately 55 families with children were served in 2024, including the named Donald Shiflet scholarship to Fairview Elementary students.
Sponsorship of “Free Day” at Bryan Park and Mills Pools
The Bloomington Parks Foundation participated once again as a sponsor of a “free day” for pool patrons at the city’s pools on July 4. BPF funded a total of $1,950 at Bryan Park and Mills Pools.
Fee Waiver Support for Public Pool Patrons
The Bloomington Parks Foundation provided $10,000 to help the Parks Department cover the costs of pool fee waivers for qualifying low income families and patrons.
Overall Facilitation of Grant Securement
Fulfilling one of its primary missions, the Bloomington Parks Foundation facilitated securement of additional grant funds from various granting agencies in 2024 including the Bloomington Health Foundation, and the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County. Partnerships also allowed the Parks Department to acquire an EcoRover Tracked Wheelchair to enable students with mobility limitations to fully participate in Nature Day events at Leonard Springs Nature Park and Griffy Lake Nature Preserve, as well as other youth events.
Bench in Honor of Former Parks Director Paula McDevitt
On September 25, 2024, friends and family gathered to celebrate the legacy of Paula McDevitt who served in a variety of roles in the Bloomington Parks Department over many years, including its Director. Paula retired in late 2023. The Parks Foundation honored with the installation of an honorary bench along the Jackson Creek Trail Extension on Bloomington’s southside.
