The Lincoln Parks Foundation distinguishes extraordinary contributions from individuals, groups, and corporate interests for special recognition within our organization and to serve as an inspiration to others to mirror this type of generosity towards our community. In the spirit of our mission, awardees are selected for significant donations of their time, talent, or other resources for the betterment of Lincoln parks and recreation facilities and programs.

Liberty Plaza

GOLDEN FRIEND AWARDS

Golden Friend awards were first established by the Lincoln Parks Foundation in 2007. Awardees receive a small gift of appreciation that they can proudly display identifying their contribution and an enduring tribute that is inscribed in an exclusive memorial site at Antelope Park's Liberty Plaza.

2007

• Rosina Paolini and Karl Schlitt were recognized for their long-time volunteer commitment to caring for the trails of Wilderness Park.

• HWS Consulting Group was recognized for an annual commitment of funds and volunteer time toward planting trees in Lincoln's Parks. HWS has organized participation in this project for over 20 years.

• Elaine Hammer was recognized for her significant and tireless efforts to advance the development of Lincoln's enviable trail system.

• Irvingdale Neighborhood Association was recognized for adopting Stransky Park and the development of an annual summer concert series for the community at Stranksy Park. Neighborhood residents have organized and volunteered to open and close the gates to this historic park on a daily basis.

2009

• Hofeling Enterprises, Inc. was recognized for processing all the wood waste generated by the Lincoln Parks & Recreation Department Community Forestry Section and recycling it into wood chip mulch for over 3 years. This activity has kept this waste from going to the City Landfill and has saved the City nearly $50,000 in landfill disposal fees. Hofeling Enterprises has also opened their yard to the public following storms to allow disposal of tree debris at no cost. In January 2009, they processed all trees from City Christmas Tree recycling sites into mulch saving the City over $2,500 in fees. Additionally, Hofeling Enterprises donated 100 spruce trees to the Lincoln Parks & Recreation Department for planting on city golf courses.

Scott Hofeling has served as an appointed member of the Lincoln Community Forestry Advisory Board since August 2008 and has been an active member in all regards.

2011

State Farm Insurance is a shining example of a generous and responsible corporate partner. Not only have they made a commitment to Lincoln through the location of their operations center and the hundreds of good jobs they provide in our community but they give again and again with both financial and volunteer commitments to the Lincoln Parks & Recreation system. They were the first corporate partner to join the 'Adopt A Lincoln Landscape' program and their employees currently commit volunteer time to ongoing care and maintenance of Stransky Park, the Pierson Bed on Sheridan Blvd, Kontras Park, and McWilliams Park each year.  State Farm also has made significant contributions to the Foundation as a frequent event sponsor, a lead donor for key amenities in our newest urban park Union Plaza, donations to renovating the Sunken Gardens and Lincoln public rose garden, and has recently awarded a $10,000 grant to the Parks & Recreation Parker Pals scholarship program that ensures all kids have an opportunity for fun and success in quality summer and before and after school programs. 

Embury Construction & Williams House movers were recognized for donating their services to move the Hudson Cabin from State Fair Park to its new home at Pioneers Park Nature Center.  Thanks to their generosity our historical gem Hudson Cabin now has a permanent home at Pioneers Park Nature Center and is a special attraction for thousands of visitors and school children each year.

Glenn Johnson is the longtime director of the Lower Platte South Natural Resources District and is a longtime friend of the Lincoln Parks system. Glenn has provided outstanding leadership and cooperation among many levels of government and the private sector in the spirit of community improvement.  He is known for his passionate work in the areas of conservation and environmental stewardship. In times of great need Glenn has stepped forward to find creative solutions to preserving our precious natural resources, keeping Pioneers Parks Nature Center free and open to public to continue its unique mission of environmental education, has provided key partnerships in countless park, trail and other capital projects and is among the key visionaries in the success of Antelope Valley and Union Plaza.

Clancy Woolman is a dear friend of the Lincoln Parks Foundation.  Clancy has been an avid supporter of Lincoln's parks system for over 30 years. He has donated countless hours through his ongoing selfless dedication and volunteer service.  Clancy has served at a citizen member of the Parks and Recreation advisory council, was a founding member of the Lincoln Parks Foundation, and served admirably as the Foundation's President for six terms. He now serves as a distinguished and active member of the Lincoln Parks Foundation Board of Trustees and for 19 years has provided considerable leadership to hosting the Lincoln Parks Foundation's annual golf tournament.  This tremendous list of accomplishments and contributions hardly even do justice to his service and contributions in support of our fantastic community.