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Madison Parks Foundation has received a $10,000 grant from the Steve Stricker American Family Insurance Foundation to support the K.N.O.W. Program (Kids Need Opportunities at Warner) at Warner Park Community Recreation Center. This generous investment will help us continue serving 200 to 300 underserved youth ages 11-21 each week, providing the comprehensive support and opportunities every young person deserves. 

This is the story of how a determined group of citizens, led by two remarkable men, created the foundation of Madison's beloved park system in just 46 years—all through private donations, volunteer effort, and an unwavering belief that beautiful public spaces belonged to everyone.

On April 27, 1892, University of Wisconsin Professor Edward T. Owen sparked a conversation that would change Madison forever. He proposed creating an organization to develop "rustic roadways through picturesque scenery in and about Madison" and to acquire parks beyond the city limits. Two years later, on July 10, 1894, the Madison Park and Pleasure Drive Association (MPPDA) was formally organized with just 26 members and $655 in initial subscriptions.

When the Madison Parks Foundation received a $750,000 donation to renovate the aging golf course, the vision extended far beyond replacing divots and updating fairways. The goal? Reimagine what a public golf space could be. 

This summer, that magic became accessible to even more families in Madison with the opening of a brand new water sprayground at the Jeff Erlanger Playground at Rennebohm Park.

The holiday season is a time for giving, but your gift can do more than just bring joy for a moment. It can create opportunities that last all year long. Imagine a child enjoying the pool all summer, a group of kids enjoying healthy snacks while participating in educational programs, or neighbors gathering to enjoy live music in a local park.