Beverly Shores crowdfunding for playground project
Subscriber Benefit
As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe Now
The town of Beverly Shores along Lake Michigan has launched a crowdfunding campaign to renovate a public playground.
The goal of the campaign for Lituanica Park is to raise $16,512 by Dec. 15 to receive a matching grant through the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority’s CreatINg Places program.
Since the program began in 2016, it has helped eligible not-for-profits and local governments in Indiana raise more than $11.7 million in public funds and an additional $9.8 million in matching IHCDA money.
“The renovation of the playground in Lituanica Park will increase access to recreation, promote safe play and improve the overall quality of life in the community for children and their families,” Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Indiana’s secretary of agriculture and rural development, said in the news release. “This project will bring immediate positive change for Beverly Shores residents and make a lasting impact for years to come.”
Funds from the campaign would be used to replace a swing set, lay new playground mulch and repaint existing equipment. The campaign also would add a playground access ramp, play panel and activity walk.
“Play is one of the most significant gifts we can give our children,” said Steve Coughlin, parks committee secretary for Beverly Shores, a town about 36 miles east of Chicago with a 2022 estimated population of less than 1,000.
Donations and volunteers are needed, Coughlin said. Most of the money will be spent on playground equipment versus contractors.
The campaign has raised just over $7,000 to date.
Projects eligible for the CreatINg Places program must have a minimum total development cost of $10,000. Recipients receive $5,000 in IHCDA matching funds should they successfully raise $5,000 through the crowdfunding site Patronicity. IHCDA will provide matching funds up to $50,000 per project.