NEW GLARUS — The New Glarus Cares Community Foundation announced on Saturday, July 29, that its goal to raise half of the purchase price for the green space adjacent to Candy Cane Park in New Glarus was achieved.
Through hard work and boundless generosity of the New Glarus community, the goal of raising $75,000 was completed, and now the organization announced it would still try to raise funds to purchase new inclusive playground equipment for Candy Cane Park.
The effort, which began last November, was achieved when the Vinson-Roznoski family (Ken, Shannon, and Iain) generously donated $5,518 last week.
“When we moved away from Madison five years ago, we chose New Glarus because of the strong sense of community, wonderful people, great schools, and access to recreation with the state park, state trails, and local parks, including Candy Cane Park,” Shannon Roznoski said when asked about their motivation to make such a wonderful contribution. “We were excited to help the New Glarus Cares with their fundraising efforts and doubly excited to have the means to help them reach their goal of $75,000. We are honored to be a part of this community effort and really appreciate all of the hard work (New Glarus Cares) has done to make this dream a reality.”
In addition to the Vinson-Roznoski family’s donation, Ott Haus Pub & Grill also hosted a luau on Saturday that raised nearly $2,000 for the cause, propelling the campaign over the top. The fun-filled event included tropical-themed drinks, live music, a hula hoop contest, a “best dressed” contest, and a raffle for a Blackstone grill donated by the Ott Haus.
Shelly Johnson, President of New Glarus Cares Community Foundation said their group was overwhelmed with gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community.
“It is a testament to the unity and spirit of New Glarus, and together our community has had a profound impact in securing the future of Candy Cane Park for generations to come,” Johnson said.
As one challenge is conquered, New Glarus Cares’ attention now shifts to another crucial aspect: Replacing the aging playground equipment at Candy Cane Park. The organization aims to create an inclusive playground, where children of all abilities can play together at Candy Cane Park.
“We recognize our work doesn’t end here; we must now focus on securing funds to replace the playground equipment,” said Johnson. “We are continuing to accept donations and are planning additional fundraisers to bridge the gap. Additionally, we are eagerly awaiting word on a couple of grants we have applied for, which may significantly contribute to our goal of building an inclusive playground.”
New Glarus Cares invites the public to join in the effort to raise funds to replace the playground equipment and ensure that Candy Cane Park remains a place where laughter, play, and the community thrives. Donations are still welcome, and the organization is eagerly looking forward to hosting more events that unite the town in its shared vision of a vibrant, inclusive playground.
