Help create a stronger and more viable community to live, work and play. Your donations help support programs, special events, beautification of parks and facilities and enhanced services to the community. As a government agency, Downers Grove Park District relies both on tax-payer dollars and program fees; however, in order to increase our ability to provide high-quality services and facilities without increasing fees or raising taxes, we rely on the generosity of friends like you. Please make a donation today to help continue the programs that impact you, your family and your community for many generations to come.

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Tax Deductible Contributions

All donations are tax deductible under the full extent of state and federal laws. Please refer to IRS publication 526 for specific information. Need a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization EIN for tax records? No problem. The Grove Foundation for Recreation is our non-profit partner that will accept your donation on our behalf and restrict the funds for use in Park District initiatives.

Recreation-based Donations

The Grove Foundation for Recreation

The Grove Foundation for Recreation is a not-for-profit organization registered with the State of Illinois. The foundation has been supporting the Downers Grove community since 1991 by providing financial support for educational, recreational and social programs. The Foundation was originally created to fund Park District initiatives but has since opened its funding programs up to meet several other community needs and developed "Helping Children Grow", the Foundation's fifth grade recognition program.

While The Grove Foundation currently supports many other causes primarily focused on children, seniors and family emergencies, its relationship with the Park District remains strong.

Financial Assistance Program

In an effort to provide recreation, health and wellness opportunities to all residents, including those who are experiencing financial hardships, the Downers Grove Park District has established a Financial Assistance Program. Learn more about the program.

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Tree & Bench Tributes

Trees and benches make great gifts to both your beneficiary and your favorite park. Best of all, your donation is tax deductible and supports parks community-wide!

Park Benches
People may donate new or dedicate existing park benches. Whether existing or new, a donor recognition plaque will be installed on the bench.

Park Trees
Choose any Downers Grove park with planting availability. A donor recognition plaque will be installed with the tree. Tree sponsors can select the type of tree to be planted from a variety of tree species suitable for planting by the Park District, depending on the season. The Superintendent of Planning will work with tree sponsors to choose the parks and specific planting sites for the trees.

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DONATING MUSEUM ARTIFACTS

What does The Museum collect?
It is the mission of the Downers Grove Park District Museum to collect, preserve, exhibit, and interpret materials that explain and document the history of Downers Grove and its relationship to local, state, regional and national history. All objects accepted into the collections must have a direct connection to Downers Grove, or be able to help tell the story of the community.

How can you donate to The Museum?
If you are clearing out your attic or closets and find things of interest, contact the Museum. The staff will be able to tell you whether or not the object(s) would be considered for it's collection.

What happens to donated objects?
Donated objects accepted by The Museum are given one of three designations: Permanent Collection, Education Collection, or Property. Items are placed in the appropriate category based on a variety of factors, including provenance, intended use, availability, and condition.

Are object donations tax deductible?
YES! Under the terms of the Federal Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993, charitable gifts of appreciated property are fully deductible. Contributions of $250 and over will require a receipt for all donations, including property and cash.

Does The Museum staff appraise objects for donation?
NO. The value of an object donation must be appraised by a qualified person. The staff is prohibited from providing appraisals of the monetary value of materials offered as gifts, brought in for identification, or submitted for any other purpose. Therefore, the donor is responsible for obtaining the services of an appraiser.