Lima opens the Make A Splash campaign

LIMA – The City of Lima’s endowment fund for the Lima Community Aquatic Park is 78% fulfilled.

The city is asking for help to match $3.9 million to reach the $5 million goal.

“We want this park to be a place where all families can create memories for generations,” Lima Mayor Sharetta Smith, who is leading the campaign, said in a news conference. “And together we have created a plan to ensure that the park remains vibrant and maintained for years to come. We want you to view this fund as a savings account for the future of the park, generating a stream of financial support for long-term program and operational costs.”

Other speakers at the press conference reported on the current status of the park’s construction, which was on time, and what the endowment fund will be used for.

LaShonda Gurley said the fund, managed by the Lima Community Foundation, invites anyone to donate through the Make A Splash campaign. She said the foundation will help ensure the park’s long-term sustainability.

“The Make A Splash campaign is about the future of our region for our children, families and visitors,” she said. “The foundation will keep the park alive while ensuring it remains affordable for all community members.”

Lima City Schools Superintendent Jill Ackerman said pilot programs are already coming together to teach second-graders at Unity Elementary School to swim.

“In recent weeks we have seen students who have spent little or no time in the water become more comfortable and confident,” she said.

The park’s construction costs are fully funded, but endowment funds are used for expenses such as maintenance and programs and services within the park.

The city said the foundation will generate annual revenue by earning interest from which the park can cover its costs.

Interest can also be reinvested in the fund.

“The opportunity to contribute to the maintenance and operations of the park really fits with the goal of building a facility for everyone,” Smith said.

Further information about the foundation can be found at bit.ly/4eWYPuK/

Reach Jacob Espinosa at 567-242-0399.