About Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation
Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation is a grassroots volunteer citizens' organization founded in September 2016 by members of the Cedar Rapids community who recognized a need to raise private funds for the Cedar Rapids park system for expansion and improvements. The Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation rose out of discussions between members of the City's Parks, Recreation and Waterway Commission, Parks Department leadership, the City Manager's office, and a mutual desire to implement pieces of the City's Master Parks Plan and Riverfront Greenway plans, as well as other much needed projects. Founding members of CRPF were inspired by the incredible transformation of Greene Square, almost entirely funded by private and corporate donations.
Our Mission: To create, enhance and sustain innovative parks and recreation opportunities in Cedar Rapids for all community members.
Our Core Values:
Collaboration: The Foundation will work closely with the City of Cedar Rapids and Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation Department to identify projects in agreement with the CR Master Parks Plan, Riverfront Greenways Project and EnvisionCR to ensure sustainability.
Welcoming: The Foundation will seek input from the community and stakeholders in decision making.
Inclusiveness: The Foundation will identify projects that will be enjoyed across generational and socio-economic groups. ADA accessibility will be a priority.
Economic Growth: The Foundation will seek projects that spur economic growth and improve the vitality of the city by promoting a healthy and active lifestyle and enhancing year-round activities.
Recent Investments
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2026 Frequently Asked Questions
- How is Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation different from the City of Cedar Rapids?
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Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation is a non-city-owned 501(c)(3) non-profit that operates independently from the City of Cedar Rapids and receives financial support through donors, corporate sponsors, and fundraising events.
- What projects has Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation funded?
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Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation has funded a number of community projects totaling over $197,000, including:
$35,000 for Roundhouse Furnishings
$26,200 for Rollin' Recmobile
$15,000 for Net Climber (Cleveland Park)
$15,000 for Shade Shelter for 12th Avenue Dog Park
$15,000 for Shelter for Lincolnway
$13,400 for Net Climber (Daniels)
$11,200 for ReLeaf Trees at Jones Park
$11,000 for Concrete Steps
$9,000 for Rollin' Rec Mobile Support and Supply
$9,000 for Playground Equipment for Cedar Lake
$8,900 for Hughes Park Veterans Rock
$7,500 for Hughes Park Ice Rink
$6,475 for Interpretive Exhibits at Old MacDonald's Farm
$5,000 for Pickleball Lights at Jones Park
$3,720 for Free Swim Lesson Program
$1,500 for Walkable Gardens
$1,500 for Windscreen at Jones Pickleball Courts
$1,275 for Digirider Tractor Spring Rider
$1,245 for Digirider Chicken Spring Rider
$1,000 for Old MacDonald's Farm Donation
- How many parks does the Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation support?
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The foundation provides supplementary funding to support Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation in managing over 100 parks and 50 playgrounds.
- How can I donate to Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation?
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You can make a one-time donation via our donations page or become a sustaining member of the Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation via our Friends of Cedar Rapids Parks program.
- Can I make a donation in someone's honor or memory?
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Absolutely! Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation can help you facilitate honorariums/memorials in the form of picnic tables or park benches. A donation of $3,000 covers the cost of the bench or table and a plaque acknowledging the individual or group you'd like to honor or memorialize.
- How can I stay updated on Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation news and events?
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We offer a variety of ways you can stay connected: You can sign-up for our monthly email newsletter, find and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or attend any of our events throughout the year.
- Can my business sponsor a Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation event or project?
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Of course! We love collaborating with local partners and your business can join us in sustaining and enhancing Cedar Rapids' park and recreation opportunities. Send us an email at crparksfoundation@gmail.com to get started.
- How can I join Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation Board of Directors?
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We're always looking for engaged members of the Cedar Rapids community to join our board of directors. Send us an email at crparksfoundation@gmail.com to get started.
