Zionsville Parks Foundation reaches $1 million in donations, funds pond study at Carpenter Preserve

Zionsville Board of Parks and Recreation · November 13, 2025

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Summary

The Zionsville Parks Foundation announced it has reached $1,000,000 in donations and commitments for parks and green space and donated $37,929 from its Habitat Restoration Fund for a KCI pond rehabilitation study at Carpenter Nature Preserve; the Foundation also named Nancy Ticajohn its 2025 Acorn Award recipient.

The Zionsville Parks Foundation announced at the Nov. 12 Parks Board meeting that it has reached a $1,000,000 milestone in donations and commitments for parks and green space in Zionsville.

Chair Chris Barksdale reported the Foundation held its second annual "Parks and Pastries" breakfast, which included presentation of the Acorn Award to Nancy Ticajohn in recognition of volunteer service to parks, the nature center and local tree and Earth Day efforts. Barksdale said a tree will be planted in Ticajohn's honor at the Zionsville Trailhead next to the tree dedicated to last year's honoree, Elizabeth Mueller.

The Foundation also has two anonymous donors who committed $25,000 each in matching funds, providing a 1:1 match up to $50,000 through the end of the campaign period. Barksdale said the Foundation donated $37,929 from its Habitat Restoration Fund to pay for a KCI-led pond rehabilitation study at Carpenter Nature Preserve.

The board acknowledged the milestone and the Foundation's role in supporting local capital and restoration work. Chair Barksdale encouraged board members to expect campaign letters in the mail.

The announcement covers fundraising and a directed grant for a study; the Foundation will manage donor matching and outreach separate from board actions.