Fairmount Park Conservancy

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Shofuso in West Fairmount Park

Mission and Vision Statements

Our Mission

The Fairmount Park Conservancy works as a collaborative partner to lead and support efforts which preserve and improve the Fairmount Park System in order to enhance the quality of life and stimulate economic development of the Greater Philadelphia Region.

Our Vision

Through sustained leadership, significant investment, and strategic efforts, the Fairmount Park Conservancy will help position the Fairmount Park System to become a world-class, pre-eminent park system, and a national model for urban revitalization, sustainability, and civic engagement.

We Believe

We believe that parks can be catalysts for positive change in our city.  We believe better parks make our individual lives healthier, our neighborhoods safer, and our region more competitive.

Our Guiding Principles

  • The Conservancy is a leader and steward of signature capital projects and innovative programs in support of the Fairmount Park System.
  • The Conservancy is a champion of the Fairmount Park System - it raises funds to develop and promote the Park's unique assets, accomplishments, and contributions.
  • The Conservancy is a true collaborator - it builds and stewards partnerships with other organizations that can bring increased resources to and awareness of the Fairmount Park System.
  • The Conservancy is committed to having a positive and measurable impact in the neighborhoods and communities it serves.

Historical Background

In 1997, a study was ordered by members of the Fairmount Park Commission "to determine the feasibility of establishing a more formal and effective development program on behalf of the Fairmount Park Commission; to identify the possible uses of contributed support; and to examine fund-raising potential for the Park." Following a recommendation of the study to create a separate 501(c)(3) fundraising organization that would operate independently of the Commission to raise monies for Fairmount Park, the Fairmount Park Foundation was incorporated in July, 1998, and received its 501(c)(3) designation in November of that year. In 2001, the organization changed its name to the Fairmount Park Conservancy. Its board of directors, composed of community and business leaders, takes an active leadership role in raising funds for the park system and in guiding the organization.