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Fill It Forward initiative turns each refill scan into a donation supporting Starved Rock State Park UTICA, IL - The Starved Rock Foundation is proud to be the nonprofit beneficiary of a new reusable water bottle initiative launched as part of Heritage Corridor Destinations’ Appetite for Adventure summer program. New this year, the program includes complimentary Fill It Forward reusable water bottles designed to encourage sustainability while supporting local conservation eff

Annual scholarship will support local students pursuing careers connected to conservation and the outdoors. OGLESBY, IL -- The Starved Rock Historical and Educational Foundation has established its first scholarship, creating a new opportunity for Illinois Valley Community College students interested in pursuing conservation-related careers. The Starved Rock Historical and Educational Foundation has established its first scholarship at Illinois Valley Community College. T

Local photographers, businesses, supporters, and Miller Group Charitable Trust helped turn park photography into meaningful support for Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks. OGLESBY, IL -- The Starved Rock Foundation announced a $16,288.50 donation from the 2026 Starved Rock and Matthiessen calendar fundraiser during a donation ceremony held Sunday, May 3 at the Starved Rock Visitor Center. Starved Rock Foundation, along with local photographers, businesses, and communi

“Event of the Century” brings together community, volunteers, and state leadership to celebrate a legacy of impact UTICA, IL — April 13, 2026 — The Starved Rock Foundation hosted a powerful and emotional celebration on Saturday, April 11 at Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center, honoring co-founder Pam Grivetti for 50 years of service to Starved Rock State Park, a legacy that quite simply made the Foundation possible. The event venue was generously donated by the Lodge an

The Starved Rock Art Show returns this winter, inviting visitors to experience and vote on a wide range of nature-inspired artwork created by both adult and junior artists from the community and beyond. Presented at the Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center, the show highlights creative expression inspired by the landscapes, wildlife, and seasonal beauty of Starved Rock and surrounding natural areas. The exhibition is supported through funding provided by the Starved Rock Fo

Earliest sell-out in the project’s history highlights record community support OGLESBY, IL — The 2026 Starved Rock & Matthiessen Calendar fundraiser has officially sold out, marking the earliest sell-out in the history of the project. A total of 525 calendars were sold, the highest number ever produced and distributed for the annual fundraiser. This milestone also represents a record amount of funds raised in support of Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks, with final fun

From intimate wildlife encounters to sweeping landscapes, the 7th Annual Starved Rock Photography Show showcased the stories that unfold when people slow down and truly observe the natural world. Presented by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) with support and funding by the Starved Rock Foundation, the 2025 show featured 86 entries across eight categories, each capturing a unique perspective of plants, animals, and landscapes from across North America. The S