Community, photographers, and businesses team up to benefit Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks.
A group of photographers and local businesses presented a check in the amount of $3224 to the Starved Rock Historical and Educational Foundation President, Pam Grivetti, on the 8th of January 2023. Pictured from left to right: Brian Gift, Paula Guttilla, Robbin Keenan, Pam Grivetti, Matthew Klein, Kyle Petersen, and Téa Lamboley
UTICA, IL - A total of $3224 was donated to the Starved Rock Historical and Educational Foundation, a volunteer-run not-for-profit organization founded in 1991 that supports the parks through educational programs, guided hikes, exhibit updates, and more.
The donation was made possible through the generous efforts of those who supported the fundraiser, local businesses who sold the calendars, and the photographers who provided images of Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks.
Over 200 photo submissions were received. “The final images represent the spirit of the parks from hikers across the Midwest, and in all seasons,” stated Matthew Klein, the creator of the annual calendar fundraiser.
The photographers who were selected for inclusion are Andrew Kenning, Erika Hoffmann, Yesenia Yanez, Téa Lamboley, Kyle Petersen, E.J. Rodriquez, Sharon Sarti, Joe Hotle, Paula Guttilla, Matthew Klein, Chet Phillips, and Brian Gift.
Demand for the calendars was higher than normal this year. Calendars were available to purchase at the Starved Rock Visitor Center Foundation Store, Bruce & Ollies at the Bickerman Building, the Starved Rock Country Welcome Center by Heritage Corridor Destinations, and Kishauwau Cabins.
“It’s always great to see local businesses and organizations supporting the annual fundraiser. Their support, combined with a strong digital approach, resulted in the calendars selling out for the first time ever,” Klein stated.
Any suggestions or comments should be emailed to matthewklein916@yahoo.com.