The Park Pulse is a monthly newsletter distributed to the 157-C schools.  The newsletter features upcoming events, programs and announcements from the Park District.

Click below to view Issues:

October 2025 Park Pulse

September 2025 Park Pulse

Summer 2025 Edition of Park Pulse

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Park Perks – Fall 2025

Park District News

The New Fort Frankfort Playground
Is Taking Shape!

We’re thrilled to share that construction on the new Fort Frankfort playground is nearing completion! This muchanticipated project has been made possible thanks to $1.7 million in funding secured by Senator Hastings from the State of Illinois through the DCEO Grant. Without this generous support, the project would not have been possible.

The new design pays tribute to the beloved original Fort Frankfort structure and celebrates the unique character of the Frankfort community. The larger of the two new playgrounds features a Grainery reminiscent of the one in downtown Frankfort, along with a signature water tower. The playground will also include poured-in-place surfacing and accessible ramps to ensure inclusive play for children of all abilities. 

To enhance the park experience, two large shelters are being constructed to serve both playground and Splash Pad users. Portions of the project have also been funded by the Park District through capital funds and with generous support from the Operation Playground Foundation (OPF). OPF is made up of dedicated community members who
led the original Fort Frankfort installation and continue to actively support park projects in Frankfort.

To learn more about the new playground and how to claim your bricks or pickets, please visit our website or contact the Park District office directly. We’re excited to bring this new and inclusive play space to life and can’t wait to welcome families back to a revitalized Fort Frankfort!

Recreation Center Survey (QR CODE)

The Park District is seeking further input as we continue to evaluate conceptual designs and costs to construct a Recreation Center. Funding is being considered through a property tax increase. The Board would like to gather feedback from residents to help shape future decisions. Please take the survey.
Survey closes September 7.
Your Voice Matters – Help us plan for the Future!
The Park District hosted an Open House regarding this topic. The information from the meeting, including a video can be found on the Park District’s website.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Frankfortparks2025

Click here to go to the Recreation Center Discussion Page

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Storms, Determination, & Community Spirit Mark the 25th Annual Short Run on a Long Day 5K

The 25th Annual Short Run on a Long Day 5K Run/Walk turned into a true test of grit and spirit as participants braved a wild mix of weather that included heavy downpours and steady rain. Despite ominous forecasts, 440 runners and walkers registered for this milestone event. As thunderclouds rolled in and the skies opened up, 318 determined
participants crossed the finish line—drenched but undeterred. The course, already a local favorite for its community charm and summer solstice setting, became an unforgettable challenge as sections were inundated with standing water and pounding rain.

Volunteers and organizers worked tirelessly through the storm to ensure safety of all attendees while maintaining the celebratory spirit, for which the event is widely recognized. Emergency weather protocols were on standby, but thanks to vigilant monitoring and some lucky timing, the race was able to go on without incident. “Our 25th year certainly gave us a story to tell,” said Cali DeBella, Recreation Supervisor and race coordinator. “This was about more than running—it was about community, resilience, and the kind of fun you never forget.”

A special thanks goes out to our generous sponsors, who stood with us rain or shine. Their support helped make this event possible and kept spirits high, even when the skies were anything but. As the rain cleared and medals were handed out under a soaking sky, participants laughed, and posed for photos – muddy shoes and all – a fitting finish for a race that embodied the meaning of perseverance.

Whether you ran, walked, volunteered, or cheered, thank you for making our 25th year unforgettable! Registered Runners: 440, Finishers: 318 – an impressive turnout considering the challenging weather conditions!

Overall Winners
Male Overall Winner: Nick Dul, 17, New Lenox.
Female Overall Winner: Eliana Kaitei, 14, Tinley Park.
Special Raffle Winner: Michael Schroers. In honor of our 25th year, the 25th finisher was entered into a special raffle. Congratulations to our top finishers who pushed through the storm to cross the line first!

Thank You to Our Short Run on a Long Day Sponsors
We couldn’t have made this milestone event happen without our generous sponsors: Town Center Bank; Jeffrey LaMorte Salon & Day Spa; Chicago Stem Cell Therapy; Hamstra Roofing; DOT Foods; Body Fountain; Floor Coverings International; Running for Kicks; Earthrise Energy; IL Foot and Ankle Center; Rose Pest Solutions; Athletico Physical Therapy; Chiro One; OrangeTheory Fitness; Health Nutz; ACE Handyman Services of Lincoln-Way; HOTWORX Mokena; Iron Warzone Gym; Palermo’s Pizza; Jewel-Osco; and Hinckley Springs.

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Spotlight on Instructor
New Dance Teacher – Ms. Faith Koleczek

The Frankfort Park District would like to introduce and welcome Ms. Faith Koleczek, our new Dance Instructor. Faith began dancing at the age of 8 and quickly fell in love with the artistry and athleticism of dance. She went on to receive her Bachelor of the Arts in Dance Performance and Choreography from Hope College in Holland, Michigan. Upon graduating in 2014 she moved back to the Chicago land area and began teaching dance.

In 2015 Faith joined Noumenon Dance Ensemble, a Chicago based Contemporary dance company. With NDE she has grown her artistic and technical skills and has performed works by numerous choreographers. Since joining, she has advanced to a Senior Company Member as well as the Company’s first Rehearsal Director. Faith enjoys the opportunity to perform in venues around the city for a company that promotes diversity and inclusivity. Her professional career also includes choreography set on Noumenon Dance Ensemble as well as for Simantikos Dance Chicago’s 2nd annual choreography kick-off.

Faith strives not only to teach the technical forms of dance to her students but also the artistic and emotional aspects. Her goal for each class is to create a healthy and positive environment for her students that allows them to learn to admire each style while growing as artists themselves. The Frankfort Park District is thrilled to welcome her to our dance program this Fall as the newest member of our talented instructor team!

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Sponsorship Opportunities

The Frankfort Park District is looking to build partnerships with local businesses, foundations or individuals interested in supporting the District’s events and programs through sponsorship opportunities. Becoming a sponsor is an excellent way to show your support for the community while increasing your visibility throughout the Frankfort area. Please contact Julie Sullivan, Fundraising & Community Outreach Coordinator, at jsullivan@frankfortparks.org or call 815.469.9400 for more information.

Volunteer Opportunities

Do you need Community Service hours for school? Or do you just enjoy helping others? The Frankfort Park District is always looking for volunteers to help with various Special Events and other programs. Interested in volunteering?

Contact Cali DeBella our Recreation Supervisor at 815.469.9400 or email her at cdebella@frankfortparks.org.

Interested in Volunteering?

Contact Cali DeBella our Recreation Supervisor at 815.469.9400 or email her at cdebella@frankfortparks.org.

Thank you from the Frankfort Park District

The Frankfort Park District would like to take a moment to thank all of you who have volunteered at our events throughout the year. A lot of time and work goes into putting on a successful event, and we could not have done it without our volunteers! We appreciate your continued support!

After-Hours Drop Box

For your convenience, the Frankfort Park District has an after-hours drop box located outside of the main entrance of the Founders Community Center, 140 Oak Street. Registrations placed in the drop box will be processed the following business day.

Hold your next party at the Frankfort Park District!

If you are looking for an affordable site to hold your party or event, the Founders Community Center is available for rental. Parties, weddings, showers or meetings can be held in our classrooms, gymnasium or the Founders Room. For more information, including rental rates and availability, please call the park district office at 815-469-9400.

Customer Service Statement

The Frankfort Park District is committed to providing responsive, friendly, courteous and excellent service to our customers.