The year of 2011 started out with the Mercer Island Parks & Rec. Department asking for donations to help save many popular programs. Members of the community came forward to help save the Adventure Playground, Egg Hunt, Community Camp Out and Fun Mobile this year.

Donations by the Mercer Island Community Fund, Cascade Kendo Kai, Friends of Luther Burbank Park, Lion’s Club, Kiwanis Club, Rotary Club, Women’s Club, the Preschool Association and private donations made those programs possible.

The department will need to raise another $25,000 to offer those same events in 2012.

“I have worked for the city for 15 years, and what stands out most in this community is the generosity, passion and support for the Parks and Recreation Department. We are so thankful for the funds the community generously donated in 2011 and look forward to working together to meet the challenge again in 2012,” said Parks and Recreation Superintendent Diane Mortenson.

To learn more, or to donate, visit the city’s Parks & Rec. page or contact Mortenson at 275-7861.