When we think of parks, we think of nature, beauty, recreation, and livability, but to a city leader, parks are much more. Parks are assets. The environmental aspects of Indy Parks simultaneously serve as economic drivers that attract businesses, workers, tourists, and make Indy a destination for all. So how do you get the value of parks on the minds hundreds of Indy’s leaders? Invite them to the most playful and powerful luncheon in Indy, The IPL Mayor’s Lunch for Parks.
Since 2003, the Indianapolis Parks Foundation has hosted its premier fundraising event, IPL Mayor’s Lunch for Parks. This corporate luncheon directly supports the work of the Parks Foundation, and although the event is known as the “fun lunch,” its impact is very serious.
On March 8th, in the ballroom at the Indianapolis Downtown Marriott, you’ll find a temporary park. The room will be filled with playground equipment, music, art, animals, and nearly 700 corporate, community, and city leaders. Before the scheduled program begins, Indy’s leaders have an hour to get a full park experience. They will have the opportunity to play, listen, learn, or relax, all while networking with like-minded individuals.
In 2017, the luncheon raised a record-breaking $285,000, allowing the Parks Foundation to secure and invest $2 million in Indy Parks. In 2018, Indianapolis Parks Foundation looks to have another record-breaking year.
Thanks to the support of Indianapolis Power and Light Company, who has been the title sponsor of the “fun lunch” every year since its inception, Mayor Joe Hogsett, and dozens of corporate sponsors, the Parks Foundation is able to build upon past successes and further the discussion about Indy’s need for great parks.
The Parks Foundation will be making many big announcements at the 2018 luncheon, including the exclusive release of an Economic Impact Study from the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA).
NRPA President and CEO, Barbara Tulipane, will reveal NRPA’s Park Economic Impact Study, spotlighting the many tangible ways parks impact a city’s economy. This quantitative study on the impact of parks has never been seen before, and will resonate with business and city leaders alike, both locally and nationally.
Tulipane will also speak about their excitement for the 2018 NRPA Conference, hosted by Indianapolis. In September, Indy will once again be placed on a national stage as we host thousands of parks professionals from across the country for the NRPA Annual Conference.
Click here to learn more about attending or sponsoring the IPL Mayor’s Lunch for Parks!
