The Friends of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County advances the vision of the Forest Preserve District through philanthropic endeavors. Gifts from numerous individuals, companies and organizations help the Forest Preserve District carry out its mission of maintaining and sustaining nearly 26,000 acres, which include 60 forest preserves, 145 miles of trails, 30 lakes and six education centers.
We are grateful you're reflecting on the forest preserves and your experiences by connecting a gift to a preserve that's had an effect on you. We believe in the joy of giving. Let us help you make a contribution today or plan your giving objectives in the future.
Your generosity sustains DuPage forest preserves and inspires the work we do to make them extraordinary places to visit. A gift to the Friends of the Forest Preserve is tax-deductible under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Methods
Gifts of Cash
A gift of cash is the simplest, most convenient option and qualifies for the maximum allowable tax deduction. You can donate with your credit card, or with cash, check or credit. Call the development office at 630-81-6400 if you wish to make your donation over the phone.
Gifts of Appreciated Securities
Gifts of appreciated stocks and bonds allow you to deduct the current market value as a charitable deduction for the fair-market value of the stock.
Life Insurance
A gift of life insurance allows you to make a generous gift at relatively low cost. By designating the Friends as a beneficiary of your policy, you receive an immediate tax deduction and eliminate the proceeds of the policy from your estate. All premium payments thereafter will also be tax-deductible, subject to IRS limitations. You can also transfer ownership of a paid-up policy or donate your insurance policy dividends.
Matching Gifts
Some businesses match gifts from an employee or the employee's spouse, doubling or tripling the value of the donation. To maximize the benefit, check with your employer about matching-gift programs, and contact the Friends if you need any documentation.
Amazon Smile Foundation
Choose the Friends of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County as your beneficiary charity when you shop Amazon.com, and the Amazon Smile Foundation will contribute 0.5% of your purchase to the foundation.
Community Partners Program
This program is designed for individuals, organizations, clubs and businesses interested in giving back and enhancing the quality of life for all DuPage residents. Align your mission and values with recognition opportunities based on your level of generosity. Discover more at our Community Partners page.
With your tax-deductible donation of $100 or more, you'll become a part of the Friends' Ambassadors Circle, which offers wonderful items, recognition (if desired), and forest preserve experiences based on your level of support.
Ambassadors Circle Levels
Friend $100 – $249
Guardian $250 – $499
Steward $500 – $1,499
Benefactor $1,500 – $3,499
Visionary $3,500 and Above
We take pride in our financial stewardship of the funds entrusted to us by our donors, not-for-profit organizations and other constituents. Copies of our independent auditor reports can be obtained at fundraising@dupageforest.org.
2017 Form 990-EZ (PDF)
2016 Form 990-EZ (PDF)
2015 Form 990-EZ (PDF)
2014 Form 990-EZ (PDF)
2013 Form 990-EZ (PDF)
Contact the Forest Preserve District’s development office at 630-871-6400 or fundraising@dupageforest.org.
Annual Report 2018 (PDF)
Annual Report 2017 (PDF)
Annual Report 2016 (PDF)
Annual Report 2015 (PDF)
Annual Report 2014 (PDF)
3S580 Naperville Road
Wheaton, IL 60189
Visitor Services
Monday – Friday
8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Plus Saturdays June 1 –
Aug. 24 (except July 6)
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Phone: 630-933-7200
Police: 630-933-7240
Email: forest@dupageforest.org
Contact Our Board
Help keep our forest preserves beautiful and safe places. If you have a concern, let us know.
