Our Mission
Deerfield Park Foundation was established in 1983 to preserve and beautify the open space in Deerfield, to help provide amenities for our parks, and to offer financial assistance to those in need to participate in recreation programs provided by the park district.
Deerfield Park Foundation History & Purpose
Since 1983 the Deerfield Park Foundation has worked to improve and beautify the parks and facilities of the Deerfield Park District. The Foundation provides assistance for residents in financial need to participate in recreation programs, supports park development initiatives that enhance community recreation and has programs for remembrance and recognition. To accomplish its goals, the Deerfield Park Foundation solicits tax-deductible contributions and conducts fund-raising activities. Deerfield Park Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation, recognized by the US Dept. of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service as a tax-exempt public foundation operated for the benefit of the Deerfield community.
Board Of Directors
Officers: Chairperson – David Neiman
Vice-Chair – Ben Rotman
Treasurer – Steve Markoff
Secretary – Brian Teven
Directors: Jeremy Baras, Michael Brandess, Chris Goodsnyder, John Mann, Pat McFarlane, Jason Merel, Zack Raimi, Victoria Street
Member Responsibilities
Board members attend meetings four times a year, provide direction and input for projects that benefit the Deerfield community and procure support from individuals and corporations to benefit the Deerfield Park Foundation. In addition, board members attend community events to share the message of the Deerfield Park Foundation and to garner support. We are currently seeking new board members. Please fill out the application and send to sherry@deerfieldparks.org or for additional details, please contact Foundation Manager, Sherry Prause at 847-572-2611 or email sherry@deerfieldparks.org.
Donation OPPORTUNITIES
scholarships
As outlined in the Park Foundation’s Mission Statement, we help provide assistance for residents in serious financial need to participate in Deerfield Park District programs. Following are ways to participate. Many generous individuals provide funds for scholarships by using the donate button below. Everyone is welcome to make a donation to our scholarship program.
Donate Now Scholarship donation form
Participate in Fundraising Events
Dine Out Locally and Support the Deerfield Park Foundation. Mention the Deerfield Park Foundation and 25% of your order will support DPF scholarships for people in financial need to attend Deerfield Park District programs and camps.
March: Jimmy Thai’s
April: Potbelly
Future Dine Out events will be posted here!
*We hope to offer a Moonlight Golf Outing in 2021! Check back here for details in 2021.
linda gryziecki scholarships
Two $1,000 Linda Gryziecki College/Post-Secondary Institution scholarships, named to honor Deerfield Park District’s Executive Director Linda Gryziecki who retired in 2011 after 38 years of service, are offered each year – one to a graduating high school senior and one to a current college/post-secondary institution student.
The application will be posted in December 2021 for the 2022-2023 school year.
Purchase of a Bench, Tree, Brick Paver, Engraved Item or give a general donation
Recognition opportunities to honor, celebrate or memorialize your family member, friend or loved one exist throughout the park district. Please view our recognition page.
Donations supporting the programs and services of the Deerfield Park District may be made through the Deerfield Park Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nongovernmental entity. All donations are tax exempt as allowed by law.