In efforts to save resources and the environment, Five Rivers MetroParks announces two significant sponsorship arrangements with local and national retailers. In fall 2011, Five Rivers MetroParks received two new Subaru vehicles, and later, one energy-efficient riding mower through sponsorship arrangements. 

“MetroParks has developed a partnership with Subaru of America and two local dealers, Wagner Subaru and Subaru of Dayton, who have chosen to sponsor Five Rivers MetroParks with the donation of a Subaru Tribeca and Outback to use for promotional appearances, program support and daily driving,” says Outdoor Recreation Special Events and Development Coordinator Tom Helbig. “If you went to last fall’s GearFest (now known as the Midwest Outdoor Experience), you probably saw these two vehicles with bold graphics depicting various recreational activities and outdoor beauty that MetroParks represents. These were the donated vehicles. Feel free to check them out if you see one at a program.”

The partnership between Subaru and Five Rivers MetroParks developed from early involvement between the auto maker and GearFest (now known as the Midwest Outdoor Experience). For the past two years, Subaru was the presenting sponsor of this outdoor recreation showcase, which helped keep the event free and open to the public.

Subaru’s corporate commitments to the environment make them an ideal partner for Five Rivers MetroParks. The company’s initiatives include the country’s lone zero-landfill auto assembly plant, located in Indiana. That same automotive assembly facility also is the first of its kind to be designated as a Backyard Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. Subaru’s headquarters in New Jersey features community gardening plots that donate crops to local food banks. Even the vehicles are Earth-friendly: Subaru offers certified Partial Zero Emission Vehicles (PZEV), including Legacy, Forester and Outback models (like the one donated to Five Rivers MetroParks). Gasoline vehicles meeting these standards can have even lower emissions than hybrid or alternative fuel vehicles.

Specialized park services equipment also has been procured through sponsorship arrangements. Visitors to Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark may see the Hustler Zeon rechargeable, electric, zero-turning radius riding mower, which was donated by Wagoner Power Equipment Inc. and Hustler Turf Equipment. “This equipment is really special because not only does it save MetroParks on the initial purchase, its energy-saving properties will reduce our long-term expenses,” says Superintendent of Park Services Mark Davis. The mower is a plug-in, rechargeable machine that does not using any petroleum fuel, which reduces the carbon foot print of the machine. “Because it’s electric, it will be very quiet, which is perfect for the serene atmosphere of Wegerzyn Gardens,” Davis says. “We’re very excited about this partnership and the potential for further green-oriented sponsorships.”

To learn more about sponsorships, or to discuss potential sponsorship opportunities, contact Director of Finance Robert Johnson at (937) 275-PARK (7275).