10 th Anniversary Celebration

Dear Summer of Celebration supporter,

It is a pleasure to report the results of our 2005 Summer of Celebration. As hoped the community stepped out to show that they view the Garden of the Gods as their personal park, worthy of their personal support.

You played golf, toured gardens, attended lectures, biked, ran/walked and danced at the Gala. Our thanks go to the tremendous number of volunteers who contributed their time to put on the myriad of activities benefiting the park.

Special thanks to the Steering Committee who shared their leadership skills and time to make the Celebration a reality. Our sponsors assured that the objective of maintaining the Garden would be achieved and we are grateful to them all.

We are thrilled to announce that over $150,000 was raised the summer of 2005 . The Foundation board added $2,500 to the Endowment Fund. Then it was able to make grants of $108,500. in addition to the $100,792 from the Visitor Center for the following projects:

Gamble Oak Management - $40,000
2 year Revegetation $35,000
Bull Hog rental – locust removal $4,500
Noxious weed mapping - $7,500
Volunteer Coordinator $6,500
Trail sign package - $15,000

A contingency was established of about $35,000 plus any year end gifts.

This brings the total funds granted from the Garden of the Gods Foundation to the Garden in 10 years to $1,105,876. This unique private support of a public park is certainly appropriate for this special Park. Thanks for being a part of the Celebration.

While we won't repeat this festive summer, if a special occasion arises to raise substantial funds we will let you know. And we hope that you will consider yourself a Garden groupie.

In celebration,

Lyda Hill