Brushwood Center

© Justine Neslund

The Lake County Forest Preserves nominated two of its partners who went on to win top honors in the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) Best of the Best Awards competition.

Wintrust Financial Corporation earned the Best Friend of Illinois Parks–Large Business award, while Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods was honored with the Arts in the Park award.

IAPD, a nonprofit organization, supports park districts, forest preserves, conservation districts, municipal parks, recreation and special recreation agencies through service, research and education.

"We’re incredibly proud to work alongside partners including Wintrust and Brushwood Center, whose missions aligns so closely with our own," said Ty Kovach, executive director of the Lake County Forest Preserves. "This recognition by the Illinois Association of Park Districts celebrates and honors the dedication and positive impact both organizations have on our community and our environment."

Wintrust

Property taxes primarily fund operations, but as Lake County’s largest landowner, the Forest Preserves relies on thousands of volunteers, donors and corporate partners to do more. One company is "a shining example of a true corporate partner," according to IAPD.

Over decades of growth, Wintrust remains rooted in community—especially in Lake County, where the company was founded. Since 2002, Wintrust banks have given the Forest Preserves 31 grants for education, community events and capital needs through the Preservation Foundation, including 18 years as sponsor of Concerts in the Plaza.

This summer, Wintrust made the first major corporate gift to Every Acre Strong, the community fundraising campaign for the Forest Preserves. "We are grateful for Wintrust's leadership and hope other companies are inspired to follow their example and help care for the Forest Preserves," Kovach said.

Brushwood Center

Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods is nestled within Ryerson Conservation Area, which is owned and managed by the Lake County Forest Preserves. Operating out of the historic Brushwood home, the nonprofit organization seamlessly blends art, nature and wellness in its programming and outreach efforts. The surrounding woodlands, wetlands and prairies serve as a living canvas, inspiring the center’s diverse art programs.

Brushwood’s public art programs, classes, concerts, markets and exhibitions reflect diverse voices exploring themes on equity, justice and the impact of nature on wellbeing. Brushwood works with 300 artists annually, connecting more than 4,500 participants to the healing power of the arts.

“Brushwood Center truly deserves the Arts in the Park Award for its exemplary integration of art, nature and community wellness,” Kovach said. “By fostering an environment where creativity and conservation go hand in hand, Brushwood not only enhances community engagement but also elevates the cultural landscape of Lake County.”

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