The McKinley Park Aquatics Center (MPAC) committee received a $1,500,000 pledge from The Dekko Foundation to hep achieve its fundraising goal of $5.5 million toward the renovation of the park’s current aquatic facility.
The pledge
The first $500,000 comes as a dollar for dollar match. The initial $500,000 must be raised by June 7, 2019. To receive the remaining $1,00,000 MPAC must raise the remainder of the project funds. Once that has been raised, Dekko will provide the remaining portion of their pledge.
The goal
Samantha Baird, co-founder and volunteer on the MPAC committee, said the goal is to raise enough money to fund the entire project by June 7 so bidding on the project can begin. The committee’s goal is to begin construction in the fall and reopen in 2020.
“We are aware that this is optimistic, but we believe that anything is possible,” said Baird.
The effort
Baird said the committee is constantly brainstorming unique ways to fundraise for the project.
“We know it is a very large project for our area, and fundraising can become challenging with so many great projects going simultaneously and often vying for the same funds,” said Baird.
Baird said that MPAC is currently in the planning stage of a large annual fundraiser to take place the first weekend of May and said, that while they are not ready to release details yet, they hope people will mark that weekend off to support the project.
“We have also been formulating a capital campaign plan in addition to organizing fundraisers to raise community awareness about the project,” said Baird.
Baird said it is a community-wide effort and anyone can be involved in the project. Some suggestions she made for getting involved are providing suggestions for fundraisers, volunteering and donating to the project.
“This is truly a grassroots effort and we want the community to be invested in and share in the success of the project,” said Baird.
The facility, which was designed to serve the entire community, was designed using community feedback and input from Waters Edge Aquatic Design. Baird said this collaborative approach was done in a way to create a facility accessible to individuals of all abilities and all ages.
The facility
The facility will include diving platforms, an inclusive play area, a climbing wall, a current channel (“lazy river”), zero-depth entry, toddler swim areas, family restrooms, green space, lounge areas, renovations of the existing pool and repairs to the water heating system.
The project with also include the funding of an endowment which will be used to supplement future operational costs, upgrades and renovations.
The Dekko Foundation
The Dekko Foundation provides grant opportunities for children and communities in places where Chester E. Dekko, founder, had business or personal interests. For more information about The Dekko Foundation, visit dekkofoundation.org.
Donations to the MPAC can be made on thempac.org; by check made payable to ‘City of Creston’ and mailed to City of Creston, c/o MPAC, PO Box 1, Creston, IA 50801; or individuals can contact MPAC committee members to make cash donations.