Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the Friends of Maple Ridge Park?
The fundraising committee, Friends of Maple Ridge Park, is a group of approximately 15 families that live in the Enclave, Haswell Farm and Dutch Mills, that have come together to contribute their time and resources toward the Maple Ridge Park Project. This includes working with the Town to select the equipment for the playground, planning and executing fundraising efforts and assisting in the installation of the playground equipment. If you are interested in volunteering, please email info@mapleridgepark.org.
 
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes, all donations, made out to the Town of Bethlehem with Maple Ridge Park noted in the memo section, are considered charitible contributions and are tax deductible. A receipt will be sent to confirm your contribution.
 
How will donations be recognized at the Park?
At this juncture, the committee is entertaining a number of alternatives for donations in the amount of $100 or more. At a minimum, contributions in this amount will be noted on a Community Contributor's Board. We are also considering a Buy-A-Brick or Bench program (or its equivalent) and opportunities for sponsorship of particular pieces of equipment (starting at approximately $1000), depending upon the amount of the contribution. More information on sponsorship will be available at a later date on this website.
 
Why isn't the Town paying for the Park?
The Town of Bethlehem has paid for the development of the Park and will be providing the basic playground equipment. However, in light of the 374 families within walking distance that are anticipated to use this Park, the committee in conjunction with the Town has determined that larger, more varied, equipment would better suit the needs of the neighborhood children of all ages. The difference in cost between the two set-ups is approximately $15,000. In the event we are able to raise funds in excess of $15,000, we will entertain the possibility of adding a picnic gazebo or a walking and / or bike trail.
 
When will the playground at the Park be installed?
Depending upon the success of our fundraising and volunteer efforts, the Town is hoping to order the playground equipment by mid-May. This may put us on track for a June installation, of course, with the help of volunteers. In the event we do not initially meet our goal of $15,000, we will continue our efforts in the hope of installing additional pieces later in the year. The remainder of the Park, including the youth soccer fields and basketball courts remain open and operational, weather permitting.
 
What will the playground include?
We are in the final selection process of the playground equipment. There will be two distinct play areas - one for children 2 to 5 years of age and the other for older children, ages 6 to 12. Handicap accessible equipment is also included. Depending upon the support received from the community, the playground will include a climbing wall, a raised apparatus, multiple slides, a swing set, etc. Once selected and ordered, more detailed plans will be made available upon this website.
 
As a neighbor, how do I support the Park?
Your tax-deductible contribution may be mailed to:
 
Friends of Maple Ridge Park
c/o Chris Hull
37 Chesterwood Drive
Selkirk, NY 12158

Checks should be made payable to the Town of Bethlehem and note "Maple Ridge Park" in the memo section.
 
As a business, how do I support the Park?
Of course, cash donations are always welcome! Corporate sponsorship is being sought and will be given recognition at the Park.
However, if you prefer to support the Park through a donation of goods or services, please email info@mapleridgepark.org . The committee is considering hosting a fundraising event and / or grand opening at the Park later in the year and all donations are greatly appreciated.
 
In addition, this project has generated a great deal of interest both within and outside our 374 family community, as is evidenced by the number of hits our website is getting! If you would like to advertise on this site, ads 144 px wide x 2 in deep are available for $100 per year. If you would like our resident graphic designer to design a custom ad for your business, there is an additional $30 fee. The best part is that all proceeds from advertising will benefit the Park!

The Friends of Maple Ridge Park