Evergreen Bark Park Fundraising Underway

The Evergreen Bark Park Advisory Committee has kicked off its fundraising efforts to build Evergreen Bark Park, a clean and safe two-plus acre dog park located in Effingham’s Evergreen Hollow Park.

Effingham is the home of many dog-owning residents and visitors that could benefit from the addition of a safe, off-leash area. This designated, open space will allow dogs to interact and exercise without fear of damaging property, people, or wildlife. The project, originally proposed by an Eagle Scout, is now being carried out by Impact 2030, working in partnership with Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation and the Effingham Park District.

Evergreen Bark Park is designed to provide a large and small dog section, double-gated entries, ADA-accessible walkways, a pavilion, waste stations, a rinsing station, and a water station for humans and dogs.

Proponents say Evergreen Bark Park will encourage responsible dog owners to exercise their dogs of all sizes and abilities, including special needs or differently-abled dogs.

Evergreen Bark Park will be funded through private donations from the community. Additional funding may be secured through grant funding, if available. There are several tiers of sponsorship available, with each level offering proper recognition within the park. Donors interested in sponsorships and naming opportunities may contact Ashley Dillingham by phone at 618-309-2148 or email at ashley.dillingham@outlook.com. Other donations may be made online at https://donate.enrichingourcommunity.org/EvergreenBarkPark or mailed to Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation, PO Box 1211, Effingham, IL 62401 (please make checks out to Evergreen Bark Park).

Evergreen Bark Park Fund is a fund of Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All gifts are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation manages more than 140 affiliated funds for the immediate and long-term benefit of communities in southeastern Illinois.

For more information, contact Amanda Lessley, President/CEO of Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation, at 217.342.4988 or amanda@enrichingourcommunity.org.