Crowdfunding Campaign Launched for “Fort La Play Porte Redesign and Rebuild” Project

Crowdfunding-Campaign-Launched-for-Fort-La-Play-Porte-Redesign-and-Rebuild-Project-2019La Porte residents will soon be able to enjoy the redesigned Fort La Play Porte playground at Kesling Park with a successful crownfunding campaign launched today. The campaign is sponsored by the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) and offered through the crowdfunding platform developed by Patronicity. The campaign is led by the City of La Porte Park and Recreation Department, La Porte Park Foundation and Fort La Play Porte Renovation Steering Committee.

“Unfortunately, playgrounds are aging throughout our state and country, including Fort La Play Porte,” said Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch. “With a successful crowdfunding campaign, this park can be redesigned and rebuilt to better serve those of all abilities in La Porte and surrounding areas."

If the campaign reaches its $50,000 goal by March 10, the “Fort La Play Porte Redesign and Rebuild” project will receive a matching grant of $50,000 from IHCDA's CreatINg Places program.

Donation and project information can be found at www.patronicity.com/FortLaPlay.

This campaign focuses on preserving the existing character of the 19 year-old playground and the redesign will increase accessibility, visibility and add cool new features like a zipline. These improvements will make it possible for more children and families to enjoy the space and ensure it remains a great place to play for years to come.

“This playground has been used and loved by countless families in our community over the last 19 years, including my own," says Michelle Shirk, Fundraising Committee Co-chair. "We are very grateful to IHCDA and Patronicity for their support as we move forward with this exciting redesign and rebuild."

Since the CreatINg Places program began in 2016, projects have raised in excess of $1,980,000 in public funds and an additional $1,693,000 in matching IHCDA funds.

The CreatINg Places program is available to projects located in Indiana communities. Non-profit entities (with 501c3 or 501c4 status) and Local Units of Government are eligible to apply.

Eligible projects must have a minimum total development cost of $10,000, where the recipient will receive $5,000 in IHCDA matching funds should they successfully raise $5,000 through Patronicity. IHCDA will provide matching grant funds up to $50,000 per project.

Initial funding for the Fort La Play Porte renovation has been provided by the Healthcare Foundation of La Porte and La Porte Park Foundation.

For more information on the project, visit www.fortlaplayporte.com or e-mail Park Superintendent Mark Schreiber at mschreiber@cityoflaportein.gov.