Ty Rylander Fund Brings New Toddler Play Equipment to Lowry Park

Families in Pittsfield will soon enjoy enhanced play opportunities at Lowry Park thanks to a grant supporting the installation of toddler play equipment. The project, funded by the Ty Rylander Memorial Fund at the Community Foundation Serving West Central Illinois & Northeast Missouri, will provide a safe, engaging space designed specifically for the youngest park visitors.

Established in memory of Ty Rylander, the fund honors his spirit of generosity by supporting projects that enrich the lives of local youth in Ty’s beloved hometown community of Pike County, Illinois. The installation of toddler play equipment at Lowry Park reflects the fund’s mission of giving back to the community in meaningful and lasting ways.

“Ty and his three sisters spent many hours playing at beautiful Lowry Park. Our grandchildren are now enjoying these facilities as well,” said Gina Rylander, Ty’s mother. “Our family is grateful to the Lowry family for their generous donation of this land to build this wonderful community park. It is our hope we can help to provide some funding for toddler play equipment at this amazing place.”

The Pittsfield Park Board/District is working in partnership with the City of Pittsfield to bring the project to life, with the new play area expected to serve generations of families.

“Ty’s spirit lives on through each child in Pike County who benefits from his fund,” said Catherine Meckes, Chief Executive Officer of the Community Foundation. “Because the fund is endowed, it will continue to invest in youth opportunities in Pike County for generations, building a legacy of caring and community for Ty.”
The Ty Rylander Memorial Fund is one of more than 200 charitable funds managed by the Community Foundation, which works with donors to create permanent endowments that benefit local communities for generations.

For more information about the Ty Rylander Fund and how it continues to support local projects, visit: https://www.mycommunityfoundation.org/ty-rylander-fund