The Capital Fund was established by the Friends of Thorn Creek Woods to fund the vital improvements and projects in both the Nature Center building and in the Nature Preserve itself for which the Preserve budget holds no funds.

Money for building repairs and trail repairs come from the Capital Fund. The Capital Fund currently has $16,681 through generous donations large and small. 

Over the past few years the Capital Fund has funded the new north bridge, Nature Center front doors, louver repairs, window repairs and replacements, and trail signs. 

From 2018 on, the Capital fund focuses on trails – adding more trail improvements, additional boardwalks, water bars and signs, and planning for a bypass trail.

In 2017, Nature Center exterior painting, repairs and new gutters work was started to be completed in 2018. In the summer of 2017 Boy Scout Troop 185, led by Scoutmaster Dan Chrchrhis, Crete, Ill., funded and constructed an 8-foot section of boardwalk over a swampy area on the north side of the Nature Center Trail. Friends member and volunteer, Mark Petnuch extended this new section to be 24 feet long.  (March 2017 Building and Trail Plans link)

In Summer 2016, the north bridge was being stabilized with rip rap, and the kiosk and sitting benches were repaired.

Acorn Donation $1 to $249

Seedling Donation $250 to $499

Sapling Donation $500 to $999

Oak Tree Donation $1,000 and up

One may also donate to the Capital Fund, “In Memory of _____.” or “In Honor of _____.” 

Please make checks payable to Friends of Thorn Creek Woods and mail to Friends of Thorn Creek Woods, Box 32, Richton Park, IL 60471, or stop by the Nature Center during business hours and pay in person.