Northwest Parks Foundation

Facilitating healthy lives through active recreation parks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
 
Q: What is the Northwest Parks Foundation’s purpose?
A: Northwest Parks Foundation is a non-profit, charitable 501(c)(3) corporation founded in 2002 to help address the severe lack of funding for parks and recreation facilities.  Our mission is "facilitating healthy lives through active recreation parks".  We do this by providing financial support and public advocacy for programs and projects that support parks, trails, and other active recreation facilities in the region that are currently underfunded by tax dollars.
Q: What is the “Parks Safety Net?"
A: The Parks Safety Net Fund assists local community groups, cities, and counties with effective fundraising for active recreation projects by acting as a 501(c)(3) partner.
Q: Why do I need a 501(c)(3) partner?
A: Donations made through a 501(c)(3) partnership are tax-deductible to the full extent allowable by law.  Northwest Parks Foundation subsidizes projects by managing all donations, preparing monthly donation reports, and sending out acknowledgement letters on your behalf to all donors with the appropriate information for the donor's tax purposes.
Q: What if I want to create my own 501(c)(3)?
A: Northwest Parks Foundation exists so that citizen groups, cities, and counties don't have to go through the expense and time of securing 501(c)(3) tax status on their own.  By utilizing our umbrella, you avoid the duplication of organizational costs and expenses.  We serve the entire Pacific Northwest with our proven process of tracking donations, managing donor thank you letters, and enabling individuals and organizations to find the resources they need to make their projects and programs successful.
Q: Why would anyone give to a public park that is financed by the government?
A: Tax dollars barely support baseline operations and activities for public parks.  Capital development and maintenance budgets are often the first funding to go during budget cuts.  By raising new sources of funds and revenues, Northwest Parks Foundation helps projects get the green light that would otherwise not be funded to enhance your park experience.  Click here to learn about some of our recent park project successes.
Q: Can't I make a donation directly to a city or county?  What is the benefit of donating to Northwest Parks Foundation instead?
A: Yes, you can donate directly to a local government.  However, your gift might not necessarily get ear-marked for your intended purpose.  Northwest Parks Foundation adheres strictly to the AFP Donor Bill of Rights, which means that we have the donor's wishes as our guiding priority - not the local government's.  By donating to Northwest Parks Foundation, your contributions are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law and your wishes regarding your gift will be our highest priority.  In addition, family foundations, private foundations, and many corporations can only give to a 501(c)(3) organization due to their tax structures.
Q: How does Northwest Parks Foundation choose which projects to support?
A: All municipal parks departments qualify for our Parks Safety Net. Also, established non-profit groups without 501(c)(3) status are eligible on a case by case basis. The Executive Director and Board of Directors review all projects submitted for consideration and select as many as possible that fit with the mission of the organization and could benefit from the Foundation’s involvement.

Q: I know of a park that needs help.  How do I get Northwest Parks Foundation involved?

A: Contact Jan Burnette with the parks location, situation, need, concern and history if known.

Q: Who governs the Northwest Parks Foundation?

A: As a public charity as defined by 501(c)(3) status, Northwest Parks Foundation is governed by a board of directors.  In addtion, our charter adheres to all Washington State regulations for a non-profit corporation.

Q: I would like to serve as a board member for Northwest Parks Foundation.  What is the process I'll need to go through?

A: Individuals interested in volunteering their time and expertise as a board member should start by sending an e-mail to Executive Director Kristen Bush.  She can meet with you and, if you appear to be a good fit, will recommend you to the chair of the nominating sub-committee.

Q: What is your relationship to Friends of King County Parks?

A: Northwest Parks Foundation was originally founded as "Friends of King County Parks," which remained our registered name for many years.

Q: Where can I review a copy of your current IRS Form 990?

A: Our current IRS Form 990 is available upon written request and for a small copy and postage fee.

Q: How can I help?

A: There are many ways you may choose to help this vital organization.

  • You can provide financial assistance on any level to support Northwest Parks Foundation in its efforts.
  • We are always looking for volunteers for projects in which you have a specific interest or expertise.
  • Do you have access to a corporation or foundation interested in participating with Northwest Parks Foundation on an in-kind or financial basis?
  • We are also very interested in creating a network of constituents who share the desire to support Northwest Parks Foundation.

Q: How do I know Northwest Parks Foundation is a bonafide charity?

A:  Our past projects demonstrate that Northwest Parks is a genuine charity that is actively promoting recreational facilities in the Pacific Northwest.  For official verification, you can click here for our Washington State non-profit corporation certification or click here for our charity listing with the IRS.