Updated December 28th, 2021
Supporting Parks for Future Generations
Heads up! This article was last updated 2 years ago.
It’s easy to help protect our local environment by donating to the Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation.
Dayton Hikers founder and local trail advocate Andy Niekamp spends much of his time on the trails and in the region’s 18 clean, safe MetroParks. Because he’s such an avid park user, Niekamp understands the importance of preserving these greenspaces so people can enjoy them in the future — which is why he included a gift to the Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation in his charitable plans.
“I grew up when kids played outside on a regular basis and that’s happening less and less,” Niekamp said. “The MetroParks will be more important to the children of the future so they have a space to connect with nature.”
Indeed, planned giving through the Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation is the most impactful way to support MetroParks because it ensures great parks for future generations.
A Kettering resident, Niekamp grew up spending time outdoors in local parks and on area trails. Now, Niekamp embarks on amazing hiking adventures, most recently completing a through hike of the 1,100-mile Florida Trail.
“There’s kind of an understanding that once you complete one of these long hikes — once you achieve them, you have a duty to inspire,” Niekamp said. “It’s the same thing with our parks. Once you enjoy them, you have a duty to preserve them for future generations.”
For Niekamp, the process of naming the Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation as a beneficiary on a few of his retirement accounts was simple and could be accomplished online. Because there are many ways to provide planned gifts, the MetroParks Foundation suggests reaching out to your financial advisor or estate attorney about planned giving options.
For those who want to make an impact immediately, Niekamp suggests becoming a Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation Champion, the easiest way to support the Foundation. Champions make an ongoing monthly gift, which can be safely and securely made online. Funds donated through the Champions program also support MetroParks’ special projects, programs, conservation initiatives and allow families to connect with nature.
