National parks get $100 million gift

Many of us would be excited to get a hundred dollar bill as a gift. Imagine the excitement at the National Park Foundation (NPF) when handed a million times more than that. Earlier today, Aug. 26, the NPF said it’s been given a grant by Lilly Endowment. The grant essentially means that U.S. national parks get a $100 million gift.

$100 million gift the largest ever to the nation’s parks

The grant is the largest one ever received by the NPF, and the largest ever to benefit national parks. How do you dole out $100 million to national parks? The NPF says it has a four-fold aim.

Inspire the Next Generation of Park Stewards: Creating opportunities for youth and young adults that will foster a deeper understanding of history, appreciation for environmental stewardship, and connection with our natural world.

Conserve and Preserve Threatened Parks and Wildlife: Addressing critical initiatives that will ensure the health and longevity of the fragile ecosystems and diverse species that call our national parks home.

Ensure a World-Class Visitor Experience: Securing a future where national parks can accommodate unprecedented growth and leverage new technology, while remaining accessible and awe-inspiring for all visitors.

Tell a More Complete Story of America: Delivering a more comprehensive historical narrative, including the experiences of communities whose voices and contributions have not been fully told as a part of the American story.

A small part of a BIG goal

An NPF news release says that the grant contributes to its Campaign for National Parks. That refers to the foundation’s $1 billion fundraising campaign. Its aim is to “help address the urgent needs of America’s 430 national park sites. The Campaign for National Parks also galvanizes the efforts of park partners across the country whose collective goal is to raise $3.5 billion.” It’s a hefty sum, but $100 million is an excellent start.

So just what is the Lilly Endowment? Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based, private foundation created in 1937 by J. K. Lilly and his sons, Eli and J.K. Jr., through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company. The Endowment is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff, and location.

To learn more about the National Park Foundation’s mission, click here.

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