Vision, leadership and financial flexibility to enhance the value of Nebraska’s natural resources.
Nebraskans enjoy one of the best state parks systems in the nation. It wasn’t always that way.
In 1974, the National Campers Association harshly judged Nebraska’s state parks as “no showcase and in need of improvements.”
In spite of their best efforts, budget restrictions were squeezing the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission—and difficult choices were being made. As a result, Nebraska’s park and recreation system began to show signs of deterioration and the prospects for new development were dim.
Through the encouragement and support of a group of visionary Nebraskans, the Nebraska Game and Parks Foundation was established in 1983 to provide a conduit through which individuals, corporations and organizations could channel monies and property into the purchase of park and wildlife lands, to help build campgrounds and cabins and to provide other greatly needed facilities and improvements.
In its first two years, the Foundation underwrote acquisition and construction costs of nearly $2.5 million for projects including 10 cabooses converted into cabins at Two Rivers State Recreation Area near Venice, road improvements and picnic shelters at Louisville State Recreation Area and lighted tennis courts at Fort Robinson State Park near Crawford.
The Foundation continues to work closely with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to identify key projects and needs.
Unlike many foundations, officers of the Nebraska Game and Parks Foundation are unpaid. Except for modest operating expenses, all donations are used for Game and Parks Commission projects.
Thanks to the generosity of Nebraskans and others—and the leadership of its board members—, the Nebraska Game and Parks Foundation has been a resounding success.
Your tax-deductible contribution of any size or type is greatly appreciated.