Norfolk
Botanical Garden has successfully met the requirements for
and received a $500,000 challenge grant from the Michigan-based
Kresge Foundation in support of World of Wonders
– A Children's Adventure Garden. Thus far,
Norfolk Botanical Garden is the only organization in Virginia
to be funded by The Kresge Foundation for 2005.
The
Kresge Foundation grant was issued as a “challenge” in spring
2004. In order to receive this out-of-state funding,
Norfolk Botanical Garden was required to raise $6 million
by April 1st. On that day, Norfolk Botanical Garden reached
the $6 million mark in its Capital Campaign, thereby qualifying
for The Kresge Foundation's financial support.
The
Kresge Foundation is an independent, private foundation
created by the personal gifts of Sebastian S. Kresge. It
is not affiliated with any corporation or organization.
Grants are made toward projects involving construction of
renovation of facilities, and the purchase of major capital
equipment or real estate. In 2004, the Foundation received
636 proposals and awarded 175 grants totaling $119,434,874
to charitable organizations in the United States, Canada,
United Kingdom and France.
Norfolk
Botanical Garden launched its World of Wonders
Capital Campaign in January, 2003 and has
raised $6.2 million from more than 750 gifts and pledges
from individuals, corporations, and foundations. The
3-acre Children's Garden will be one of the largest gardens
on the East Coast designed and dedicated entirely to children.
McKenzie Construction Company began moving earth to bring
kids the world in February, with completion slated for fall
2006. Local fundraising continues for the project, as additional
gifts are needed to endow the new facility.
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Norfolk
Botanical Garden is located at 6700 Azalea Garden Road,
Exit 279B from I-64. Hours are 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. daily.
Admission is $6/adults, $5/seniors, military and students
14-18, $4/children (4-13), and children under 3are
free. Boat tours $3, children under 4 free. For more information,
contact Norfolk Botanical Garden at (757) 441-5830. Visit
our website at www.norfolkbotanicalgarden.org
