Wheaton Park District to name park in honor of Wheaton Rotary

WHEATON – At its Aug. 22 regular meeting, the Wheaton Park District Board of Commissioners voted to rename the district's Gateway Park at Main Street and Roosevelt Road in honor of the Wheaton Rotary.

The Wheaton Rotary has been involved in the community for more than 50 years, with contributions to the Park District exceeding several hundred thousand dollars and thousands of volunteer hours, according to a news release from the district.

"The group's significant contributions include more than $75,000 to the Sensory Garden Playground, donations to Western DuPage Special Recreation Association, and funding and building numerous gazebos and shelters on park district land," the release stated. "They also contributed to Illinois’ first accessible playground at Northside Park, the Clocktower Mini Golf and Skate Park, metal blockades on the Prairie Path and multiple projects within Cosley Zoo."

In addition to the group's monetary donations, members of the Rotary also have served on foundation boards for the DuPage County Historical Museum, Park District and Cosley Zoo, according to the release. The Wheaton A.M. Rotary also partners with the district for their annual Fun Run in Color.

Both Rotary clubs also have sponsored college and vocational scholarships for many years, the release stated.

“We’re honored to name the park to recognize this great organization,” Park District Executive Director Mike Benard said in the release. “The valued partnership and support from the two clubs in Wheaton has made a difference for so many in our community and beyond, and we look forward to continuing our work with them.”

In the release, Rotary President Steve Johnson said the group was honored and looks forward to "working with the district in maintaining and expanding the park and continuing our partnership."

A naming ceremony at the park will be scheduled. To learn more about the Wheaton Rotary, go to wheatonrotary.org or rotaryclubofwheatonam.org.