Rotary donates $9K to Maple Plain for park work

On March 25, the City of Maple Plain received a $9,000 donation from the Rotary Club of Orono to be used for improvements to Veterans Memorial Park. The Rotary Club raised these funds through their annual Party in the Park event, last June.

The Rotary Club of Orono has a history of donating funds to Maple Plain for park improvements. Since 2018, the annual Party in the Park has raised over $50,000, of which nearly $40,000 has been donated to the city for Veterans Memorial Park improvements. The city’s long-term goal and strategic plan include a multipurpose pavilion with additional restrooms, eating and food prep facilities at the park and the club’s goal is to earmark this donation to offset some of those costs.

Maple Plain Mayor Julie Maas-Kusske and councilmember John Fay serve in the Rotary Club of Orono in the roles of President and Treasurer, respectively. Beyond their financial donations to the city, the Rotary donates their time to the community through a wide range of social and service activities, including many veterans’ causes.

“A heartfelt thank you to the Orono Rotary Club for their incredible generosity and support! We are deeply moved by your dedication to our community and the incredible donation of $9,000 towards offsetting costs associated with improvements to Veterans Memorial Park, particularly for a much-needed multi-purpose picnic pavilion,” Maple Plain City Administrator Jacob Kolander said. “Your commitment to making “Party in the Park 2023” a success has had a lasting impact, and we are truly honored to be the recipients of your kindness. This donation will undoubtedly enhance the lives of countless individuals in our community, both now and in the future.

“On behalf of the entire Maple Plain City Council and staff, we extend our sincerest gratitude for your ongoing support and partnership. Together, we are creating positive change and building a brighter future for all,” Kolander continued. “Thank you, Orono Rotary Club, for your unwavering dedication to making a difference!”

Join the Orono Rotary for a day of music, food and fun at this year’s Party in the Parkcelebration. It is slated for June 1, from 5-11 p.m. under the water tower in Maple Plain at Veterans Memorial Park.