Endowment established to fund park maintenance

Posted on August 7, 2020 By Editor Neighborhood News, Riverside, Avondale, Ortega, Murray Hill

Following a successful Spirit of Victory capital campaign in 2018 to fund revitalization of Memorial Park and restoration to its original 1924 glory, the Memorial Park Association has established an endowment to ensure that maintenance and repairs of the nearly 100-year-old park in Riverside will continue in perpetuity.

The statue, Life, which is commonly known as "Winged Victory" sits amidst a fountain in Memorial Park — The statue, Life, which is commonly known as “Winged Victory” sits amidst a fountain in Memorial Park

“Memorial Park has a fond spot in the hearts of many, especially those who have commemorated special occasions, such as engagements, weddings and other milestones in their lives, so it’s important to maintain its beauty and its accessibility for all residents of Jacksonville to enjoy,” said Michele Luthin, MPA vice president and chair of the development committee. “There’s no better way to ensure the park will always be open to our citizens than to provide them with the opportunity to show their love for the park through a contribution to the endowment.”

The endowment will be managed by The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, located at 245 Riverside Avenue in the Brooklyn area of Jacksonville. One of the many ways the Foundation serves its community is by holding permanent endowments to ensure important organizations and causes have sustaining revenue.

“We are thrilled to partner with Memorial Park Association to preserve and protect the Park for generations to come,” stated Foundation President Nina Waters. Those interested in making a gift to Memorial Park Association Endowment or including the endowment in their will or estate plans can contact John Zell, vice president of Development, at (904) 356-4483 or [email protected] at The Community Foundation.