Two area groups received a nice Christmas surprise courtesy of the Emporia Community Foundation earlier this week.
ECF CEO Becky Nurnberg recently traveled to both Strong City and Olpe, two communities that are working to construct splash pads in the near future, to deliver donations from the Sadie Jones Fund. Nurnberg says the groups knew the checks were coming, however, the exact amount was unknown until they opened the packages.
Nurnberg says that in addition to being a resource all ages can enjoy safely, the construction of splash pads will only make these two great communities even better.
The Olpe Downhome Committee has been overseeing fundraising for the Olpe splash pad and committee member Joyce Wilson told Nurnberg she is hopeful construction may begin by 2024. Meanwhile, in Strong City, Community member, Marvin Adcock stated he is hopeful ECF’s donation will inspire additional donors to step forward and lend a hand.
No plans are set for construction on the Strong City splash pad, however, community members are hopeful that could begin next year.
Jones left a gift of $40,000, a Chase County pasture and mineral rights in Colorado in her will when she passed away in 1947. The legacy fund has grown to over $1.1 million and helps to fund health and safety projects in Lyon and Chase counties.
