Community Foundation Collecting and Matching Contributions to Playground Fundraiser
August 10, 2009 (Syracuse, NY) – The Central New York Community Foundation is partnering with the Syracuse City School District and Clear Channel Radio to help raise the funds necessary to rebuild the Wallie Howard, Jr. Memorial Playground at Van Duyn School in Syracuse.
On July 25th, arsonists destroyed the playground named in honor of a fallen police officer. It is estimated that a new playground will cost between $75,000 and $100,000 to rebuild. We ask the public to join us in an effort to raise these necessary funds.
Central New York Community Foundation Challenge Grant
The Central New York Community Foundation will match individual cash contributions, dollar-for-dollar up to $5,000.
About the Playground
The Wallie Howard, Jr. Memorial Playgound, located at Van Duyn School in Syracuse, was built by volunteers in 1995. The Community Foundation contributed to the construction of the new playground with a $5,000 grant.
Named in honor of a narcotics investigator of the Syracuse City Police Department who lost his life in 1990 during an attempted drug bust, the playground has provided enjoyment to local children for more than fourteen years.
On July 25, six children were accused of burning down the playground. It is estimated that a new one will cost between $75,000 and $100,000 to rebuild.
Read Sean Kirst’s recent Post-Standard article about the playground.
Clear Channel Radio Fundraiser
Clear Channel Radio will be hosting an all-day Radiothon on Tuesday, August 11 to raise public donations to rebuild the playground. Contributions will be collected by the Community Foundation. To donate, please:
Call: 315-472-0638
Donate online: Click Here
Thank you for your support!