Under a sparkling canopy of twinkling lights, laughter and conversation filled the La Porte Civic Auditorium this past Friday night, November 15, as the community gathered for the inaugural Picnic Under the Stars event. Benefiting the La Porte City Park Foundation, this inaugural celebration raised funds through ticket sales, silent auctions, sponsorships and generous donations.
As attendees enjoyed picnic-style appetizers and desserts catered by Downs Family Catering, the lively tunes of Point’n Fingers brought many to the dance floor, creating an evening of joy and connection. Throughout the night, guests explored an exciting lineup of silent auction items, including a La Porte Traditions Santa Portrait, a flight around the area from Flight Saga, and three VIP tables for tribute band performances at the Civic Auditorium. Bids flew in for these unique offerings, showcasing the incredible generosity and talent within the community.
“These moments, where our community comes together to laugh, celebrate, and support our parks, are what this Foundation is all about,” said Dale Parkison, La Porte City Park Foundation Treasurer. “The funds raised tonight will make a real difference—whether it’s upgrading playgrounds, improving trails or making our parks more accessible. This event reminds us how much people care about preserving these spaces for future generations... about how the La Porte City Park Foundation provides great parks for every generation.”
For event organizer Emily Archambault, the evening was about more than just raising funds.
“This was a celebration of the parks that have brought so much joy to our lives and a way to connect with the community that makes this work possible,” Archambault said. “Our parks bring us together for generations.”
The success of Picnic Under the Stars signals a bright future for La Porte’s parks, ensuring they remain vibrant, welcoming spaces for families to enjoy for years to come. From accessible paths to revitalized beaches and playgrounds, every dollar raised will support the work of the La Porte City Park Foundation, which has spent nearly 40 years improving all 16 of La Porte’s parks.
The Foundation extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, donated or contributed to the event’s success. Our success is built on a history of public and private partnerships that have helped transform La Porte’s parks.
Please consider giving to our annual campaign at https://lpparkfoundation.networkforgood.com/, following the Foundation on Facebook at La Porte Park Foundation, or reaching out to Emily Archambault for volunteer opportunities. The Foundation accepts cash gifts, planned giving, gifts in honor of others, real estate, in-kind support and sponsorships. With your support, we can continue enhancing our parks, building a stronger community, and ensuring that these beloved spaces are available for every generation to enjoy—today and into the future.
