SPRD kicks off annual donor campaign

Sisters Park & Recreation District kicked off the organization's annual Giving Donor Campaign this month.

This campaign raised nearly $30,000 last year for the Bonnie Malone Scholarship Fund. Scholarship donations are again the focus of the 2013-14 campaign, with a fundraising goal of $30,000. Scholarship donations to the Malone Scholarship Fund make it possible for youth to participate in any program offered by the district. Families must qualify for free and reduced lunch by standards set by the USDA. Typically the district offers up to one-half the program fees. In rare circumstances the district will fully scholarship a student in need.

The Bonnie Malone Scholarship Fund is partnered with other scholarship donations from local organizations such as the Sisters Rodeo Association, the City of Sisters, the Sisters Kiwanis Club, local churches, and several private and corporate donations. With these funds the district is able to ensure that all students have the opportunity to participate no matter what their ability to pay.

Due to increased enrollment in programs run through SPRD, it is anticipated that more scholarship money will be needed this year than ever before.

Donations can also be made to the C.B. Davis Fund, which was established two years ago in honor of Davis' service to the district. This fund has provided seed money for a reserve fund, which would create financial stability for the district that is not possible with the tax receipts received. The district receives 22 cents per $1,000 which equals approximately $245,000 per year. This funds the expenses of maintaining the community center and the administration of the district, but all the program areas must fund themselves through user fees, grants, and donations.

Sometimes community members see a specific need and want to support it. The district is happy to apply donations to special programs and projects when requested.

Donations may be dropped off or mailed to the district at SPRD, P. O. Box 2215, Sisters, Oregon 97759.

For more information call Liam Hughes, executive director, at 541-549-2091.