Annual Calendar Project Raises $5400 for the Starved Rock Foundation

Community, photographers, and businesses team up to benefit Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks

UTICA, IL - A total of $5400 was donated to the Starved Rock Historical and Educational Foundation, a volunteer-run not-for-profit organization founded in 1991 that supports the parks through educational programs, guided hikes, exhibit updates, and more.

Gathered at the check presentation were Kyle Petersen, Robbin Keenan, Matthew Klein and Paula Guttilla. The donation was made possible through the efforts of those who supported the fundraiser, local businesses who sold the calendars and the photographers who provided images of Starved Rock and Matthiessen state parks.

The donation was made possible through the generous efforts of those who supported the fundraiser, local businesses who sold the calendars, and the photographers who provided images of Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks.

Over 160 photo submissions were received. “The final images represent the spirit of the parks from hikers across the Midwest, and in all seasons,” stated Matthew Klein, the creator of the annual calendar fundraiser.

Demand for the calendars was higher than normal this year. Calendars were available at the following locations;

• LeRocher Bookstore (Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center) – Oglesby, IL

• Bruce & Ollies at The Bickerman Building – Utica, IL

• Grand Bear Resort Gift Shop – Utica, IL

• Heritage Harbor – Ottawa, IL

• Starved Rock Country Welcome Center – Utica, IL

• Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center – Oglesby, IL

• Starved Rock Hikers Website - Online Orders
  

“It’s always great to see local businesses and organizations supporting the annual fundraiser. Their support, combined with a strong digital approach, resulted in largest donation to date from this fundraiser” Klein stated.

“The calendar brings back memories for locals and reminds them to come out and explore our amazing parks. For folks who have not been to the parks, the calendar serves as an invitation to come and see the amazing beauty that Starved Rock holds in all seasons,” stated Pam Grivetti, President of the Starved Rock Foundation.

About Starved Rock Hikers:

Starved Rock Hikers was established by a group of locals passionate about enhancing the hiking experience in the Starved Rock area. Today, they continue to share their love for the parks through a vibrant community of hikers, carefully curated adventures, and commitment to preserving these natural wonders. Start your adventure at www.starvedrockhikers.com

About the Starved Rock Foundation: The Starved Rock Historical and Educational Foundation is the nonprofit organization for Starved Rock State Park, located in North Central Illinois. The Foundation includes a volunteer program which staffs the Visitor Center information desk and leads interpretive hikes, provides educational materials, and conducts special events and presentations. It also raises monies for appropriate materials, equipment, and the improvement of Starved Rock State Park through memberships, donations, and profit from the 100% volunteer run LeRocher Book Store in the Visitor Center. Over $450,000 has been donated over the past 30+ years by an elected board of directors. Learn more about the Foundation, becoming a volunteer, or donating at www.starvedrock.org