Supporter Spotlight: To Be Loved Is to Be Considered
By Yordanos Tesfazion
Since our founding 25 years ago, Seattle Parks Foundation’s work has been fueled by the love that community leaders, volunteers and donors have for public spaces, parks and the people who enjoy them. That love has culminated in the completion of over 300 grassroots neighborhood projects, drastically improving the quality of life for Seattle residents.
Currently, we fiscally sponsor over 100 active partners whose projects consider the specific needs of their communities. Our ability to support these essential projects is possible because of the supporters who consider the needs of our organization, and in turn, our partners.
There are several ways to show your love and consideration for Seattle Parks Foundation. Whether you’re a volunteer or a donor, your devotion to making public parks and spaces accessible is reflected in the meaningful impact we make alongside our community partners. Thank you for considering us, your community and our public spaces.
Why They Give
“My wife and I have lived in Seattle for more than 30 years and many of our fondest memories are linked to Seattle parks. Whether it was playing or watching sports with the kids, strolling along the water or amongst the trees, photo ops for proms and graduations, and most recently, the many friends made playing pickleball, Seattle parks have been the backdrop for so many wonderful moments. Giving to the Seattle Parks Foundation is our small way of saying thank you and making sure other families have a place to build their own memories.” – Frank Chiappone, regular Seattle Parks Foundation donor
“Seattle is a busy urban city, so it is a gift to have the jewel that is Volunteer Park near us. My husband Cal and I and our dog Bunk love taking regular walks through the park. We appreciate how it is maintained and delight in the park’s seasonal changes. We enjoy seeing concerts in the summer, and snow on the Black Sun sculpture in winter. But our favorite time at VP is in early spring when the west slopes are spilling over with beautiful blooming daffodils! “ – Laurel J. Anderson, recurring donor to Volunteer Park Trust
While many donors decide to make a one-time gift to Seattle Parks Foundation and/or our community partners, The Evergreen Team’s recurring gifts sustain critical community and park projects month after month, and in some cases, for years! A full list of Evergreen Team members can be found here.
“I love volunteering with A Cleaner Alki because the community is incredibly positive and welcoming. It’s not just a chore, but a choice we make to improve our surroundings. Our activities range from pulling invasive ivy and blackberries to cleaning drains, trimming walkways, and picking up trash around our city. As Bill Nye wisely said, ‘To leave the world a better place than you found it, sometimes you have to pick up other people’s trash.’” – Tania Mueller, recurring donor to A Cleaner Alki
Tania’s recurring donation to A Cleaner Alki makes her a member of our Evergreen Team. Because her monthly gifts are made through her employer, a specified amount of Tania’s salary goes directly to A Cleaner Alki, making the donation process quick and easy!
The consideration of Frank, Laurel, Tania and everyone who has contributed to our achievements over the past 25 years is a testament to the power we have and change we can create when we take a moment to consider the people and world around us.
Learn more about the partners behind the projects that need your support HERE.