Create a Legacy with the Foundation of the Virginia Recreation & Park Society

The Foundation of the Virginia Recreation & Park Society has as its core mission the strengthening and enhancement of parks and recreation through scholarships and professional development.  Through a tiered giving structure, the Foundation is positioned to increase its reserve, enhancing the level at which we fund scholarships, continuing education and other needs of our profession.  As we develop a culture of generosity, our desire is to Create a Legacy that will support the Foundation for future generations of students and professionals. 

The Foundation has funded over $200,000 in scholarships and awards approximately 20 scholarships annually for higher education, conferences and training opportunities.  The Education Endowment Fund has a goal of $1,000,000 to help talented, hard working professionals stay current with continuing education.  This Fund has already raised over $225,000. 

You can support the Foundation by giving HERE. You will be given the option of giving your tax-deductible donation to one of the following funds:

The Scholarship Fund allows Virginia college students to attend educational sessions at the VRPS Conference at no cost. These monies, as well as those raised by VRPS Service Areas and Resource Groups, provide professional scholarships to attend VRPS-sponsored events and conferences also at minimal or no cost. We also have a number of named scholarships that are awarded based upon the wishes of family and friends. These include the James K. Cole and Jesse A. Reynolds Memorial Scholarships. 

The Education Endowment was created with a goal of raising $1,000,000 in the interest of funding continuing education for parks and recreation professionals. Public funds for staff training are difficult to obtain and the Education Endowment will help talented, hardworking parks and recreation professionals stay current with continuing education. We have already raised over $200,000 towards this goal including memorial scholarships honoring Suzy Cooksey and Cecil Gilkerson.

The Foundation Fund is used to sponsor educational opportunities including the VRPS Annual Conference, Leadership Training Institute, and Management Conference. It is also used for administrative costs such as audits, investment management, credit card fees, and office support.