There are two methods for citizens to donate to Salem parks and leave a legacy for the benefit of future generations: the Parks Tradition Fund and the Salem Parks Foundation. All gifts are tax deductible and allow individuals or groups to designate donations to improve the park system. Donations can be made to honor an individual or group, celebrate a birthday, celebrate the birth of a newborn, recognize the date of a wedding or anniversary, remember a loved one, or for any special occasion when gift giving is appropriate.
Each individual, group, or organization contributing to either program will receive a letter of appreciation for the donation. If a donation is offered as a gift to someone special or as a memorial to a loved one, the person honored will be notified by a letter ideal for placement in a keepsake album.
The Parks Tradition Fund is managed by the City of Salem Parks Operations Division staff. Donations to this fund are designated for a specific park or program. Items are almost limitless, but can include:
- Park equipment
- Playground equipment
- Trees and shrub planting
- Facility improvement projects
- Recreation programs and scholarships
- Youth recreation programs
- Sports equipment
The Salem Parks Foundation has created an opportunity for citizens to donate gifts to city parks. Gifts donated to the Foundation can be designated for a specific park or program, or can be unspecified. Charitable gifts include:
- Cash donations
- Life insurance gifts
- Gifts of real estate
- Appreciated stocks and bonds
- Other charitable gifts
For additional information on donating, call 503-588-6336 or email SalemParks@cityofsalem.net.