Celebrating 30 Years of Impact: Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park Day
On July 19, 2025, the City of Overland Park proudly celebrates Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park Day, marking 30 years of transformative contributions to the community.
A Legacy of Impact
Established in 1995, as the Overland Park Parks and Recreation Department Foundation, Inc., the foundation was created to support and enhance the city’s cultural, recreational, educational and artistic programs. In 2001, it adopted its current name, becoming The Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park – a name that highlights our focus on growth, accessibility and community engagement in partnership with the city’s arts and recreation initiatives.
Over the past three decades, the foundation has worked hand-in-hand with the City of Overland Park to elevate public spaces and experiences that residents and visitors cherish. From building iconic structures that enhance the landscape of Overland Park to cultivating unforgettable events that bring our community together, its influence and impact is evident throughout the city.
Transforming Public Spaces
The foundation has played an instrumental role in shaping some of the city’s most treasured destinations and attractions:
- Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead: home to donor-supported projects like The Prairie Playground, the Dairy Barn, Main Street, and the Draft Horse Depot.
- Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens: where donor generosity has brought to life the Erickson Water Garden, Environmental Education Center, Train Garden, and the awe-inspiring LongHouse Visitor Center.
- Public Art: where the foundation’s advocacy and funding have made possible significant pieces like Converge at the Overland Park Convention Center, A Great Place to Land in Downtown Overland Park, and Blackbird at City Hall, enriching the cultural landscape of the city.
Friends Groups & Signature Events
To support its mission, the foundation established three Friends groups – Friends of the Farmstead, Friends of the Arboretum, and Friends of Overland Park Arts – each dedicated to advancing the goals of their respective programs.
Composed of community volunteers, these groups are also the driving force behind some of Overland Park’s most beloved annual events like the Luminary Walk, Night of the Living Farm, the Nutcracker Tea Party, Pumpkin Hollow and Terra Luna. These events not only raise critical funds but also bring joy, tradition, and togetherness to our community.
Expanding Access and Opportunity
In addition to cultural and recreational enrichment, the foundation champions educational access. In partnership with local businesses and organizations, the foundation has funded field trips to Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead and the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens for underserved youth – an investment in learning, exploration, and equity.
With more than $20 million in grants provided to the City of Overland Park, the foundation’s impact is impressive and important. And with an exciting list of future enhancements planned, the foundation plans to continue that impact for years to come.
Honoring the Milestone
In recognition of the foundation’s enduring legacy and its commitment to ongoing contributions, Mayor Curt Skoog has officially proclaimed July 19, 2025, as Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park Day.
As we celebrate this milestone, we also look forward—to new growth, expanded reach, and continued collaboration with the community we love and support.
Join us in celebrating 30 years of the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park—and the people, places, and programs that make our city thrive. Make your impact today with a gift that helps our community grow, thrive, and inspire.