STARVED ROCK FOUNDATION SURPASSES HALF A MILLION DONATED TO STARVED ROCK STATE PARK
- Starved Rock Foundation
- Jul 23
- 2 min read
Three Decades of Growth: Small Beginnings, Big Impact for Starved Rock
UTICA, IL — The Starved Rock Foundation is proud to announce a historic milestone: more than $500,000 has been donated to Starved Rock State Park since the Foundation’s founding in 1991.
For over three decades, the nonprofit has served as the park’s official friends group, raising funds and providing volunteer support for projects that enhance visitor experiences and preserve the park’s natural and cultural resources.
From trail improvements and educational programs to museum exhibits and conservation initiatives, every dollar raised has helped ensure that Starved Rock remains a place where generations can explore and connect with nature.
“This milestone represents hundreds of thousands of hours volunteered at the front desk and bookstore, along with numerous fundraisers over the years — all fueled by the incredible generosity of park supporters near and far,” said Pam Grivetti, President of the Starved Rock Foundation.
“In 1991, we started with roughly a $500 donation in our early days, and to now stand here having contributed over half a million dollars to the park is truly humbling. It’s proof of what can be accomplished when people care deeply about a place and come together to protect it.”
The Starved Rock Foundation’s contributions have supported a wide variety of park needs, including:
Trail and facility improvements that make the park safer and more accessible.
Free educational programming for students, families, and visitors year-round.
Museum enhancements and interpretive exhibits at the Starved Rock Visitor Center.
Special projects and signage that connect people to the park’s history and ecology.
The Foundation expresses gratitude to its members, volunteers, donors, and regional partners who make its mission possible.
For more information about the Starved Rock Foundation or to learn how you can get involved, visit www.starvedrock.org.
About the Starved Rock Foundation: Founded in 1991, the Starved Rock Historical and Educational Foundation is the official nonprofit partner of Starved Rock State Park. In collaboration with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the Foundation supports the park through conservation, education, and recreation initiatives. Its volunteers lead interpretive hikes, serve as visitor center docents, organize trail cleanups, and coordinate seasonal events. The Foundation funds park improvements through memberships, donations, and proceeds from the volunteer-operated LeRocher Bookstore and Gift Shop. Over the past 30 years, the organization has contributed more than $500,000 toward enhancing the park’s programs, facilities, and natural beauty.
Media Contact:
Matthew Klein
Vice President, Starved Rock Foundation
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