Word is quickly spreading about the City of Fredericksburg’s Fredanthropist program. Launched last week, Fredanthropists are a unique partnership between the City and area businesses and individuals for the purpose of making a positive impact in the community through financial contributions. Following last week’s announcement, Mary Washington Healthcare – community health provider – and Mrs. Mary Jane O’Neill – a longtime resident and philanthropist in Fredericksburg – graciously donated to the new effort.
They both cited their appreciation to the city for its pursuit in encouraging outdoor recreation and physical activity of area residents. With its plans to construct a new rollerhockey rink at Dixon Park in partnership with the Washington Capitals, the City of Fredericksburg will be doing just that in the program’s first year. As announced last week, future money from the program could help the City develop more events such as the hugely popular event, SlideFXBG. Future funds would also improve park facilities and help attract annual festivals to the City.
Money contributed through the Fredanthropist program will be used solely for said improvements and attractions. Hilldrup, Rappahannock Development Group, Coldwell Banker Elite and Lidl have also signed on as Fredanthropists for 2019-2020. The 12 Fredanthropists will be recognized on a website specifically created for the program, Fredanthropist.org, and will receive a special commemorative plaque recognizing their Fredanthropist designation. In addition, Fredanthropists will receive prominent recognition in Fred Focus, the City’s weekly business newsletter, as well as City social media pages, Parks and Recreation catalogs, the summer downtown trolley, the new roller-hockey rink and Picnic in the Park.