Carefree Park is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded by Carefree residents with the mission of acquiring, preserving, and making available to the community the last remaining large parcel of accessible land in Carefree as a natural open space hiking area.
One of the most frequently asked questions about Carefree Park is: “why do we need this park when there is already a park in Carefree to the north of us?”
I am happy to answer any questions about our initiative. The land to the north of us is a preserve which is inaccessible to the general public. The access to this property is through privately owned land, and it is too archaeologically sensitive to be left open to the public. We agree and support the fact that it is beautiful and important land, very worthy of preservation. But it is not land that is easily accessible to residents and visitors to hike at will.
The 48-acre property Carefree Park is working hard to acquire is about 3/4 mile from the Sundial Center. There would be convenient parking on site, with easily accessible hiking trails. With minimal impact to the beautiful natural Sonoran Desert property, residents and visitors would have a convenient, safe, and accessible open space to hike, jog, walk their dogs, or simply sit on a bench and take in the unobstructed 360˚ views. This land is also significant, and it is also worthy of preserving.
The second most frequently asked question about Carefree Park is: “what happens to the donations if Carefree Park is unsuccessful in acquiring the property?”
Donors can make a pledge to the organization. The pledge form specifies that if we are successful in acquiring the property, the pledged funds must be available within 30 days. And likewise, if we are unsuccessful in acquiring the property, the pledge forms will be returned to the donors immediately.
We also accept cash donations as we will need funds for the application process with AZ State Land. Following IRS guidelines, if we are unsuccessful in acquiring the property, remaining cash funds must be distributed to another 501(c)3 organization.
These questions, and many others, are answered on our website – www.CarefreePark.org, and I am always available to meet in person, talk on the phone, communicate by email, or even go for a hike on the property.
We are blessed to live in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Carefree Park cares deeply about preserving this last large, accessible property for all residents and visitors to enjoy in perpetuity. We care about conserving water and about maintaining the natural habitat for the many desert creatures and fabulous cacti which call this land their home.
Wendy M.
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