Melissa Crank of Streator is turning a family tragedy into a project that will benefit children and families in her hometown, but she needs public support to achieve the dream.
Crank is partnering with the City of Streator and Starved Rock Country Community Foundation to create Logan’s Oasis Playground at Marilla Park.
The site is named for her son Logan who died of a tragic accident August 5, 2023, at age 26. Marilla Park was a favorite destination for him and his children Kaibrey and Kaison.
“I believe this is exactly what he would want and what the community needs,” said Crank. “Logan loved Marilla but was disappointed there was no playground, so we want to change that.”
Fundraising for the project is going well but much more help is needed. As fiscal sponsor for the campaign, Starved Rock Country Community Foundation will accept donations, receipt donors, provide quarterly reports and offer counsel.
Online donations can be made below. Mail checks to Starved Rock Country Community Foundation, 241 Marquette St., La Salle, IL 61301. Add “Logan’s Oasis” to the memo line.
Ground will be broken for the playground by summer 2025. The City of Streator is committed to helping with the installation of playground equipment.
Streator Mayor Tara Bedei, also an SRCCF board member, said, “It will be really nice to have more for families and kids at Marilla Park.” Bedei made a personal contribution of $500 to help establish the fund with SRCCF.
Located at the northeast edge of the city, Marilla Park was created in 1919 following a donation of 33 acres by the Plumb family. In 2015, a local philanthropist donated another 32 acres to increase its size to 65 acres.
It is home to disc golf, hiking trails, picnic shelters – and soon, thanks to Melissa Crank and her family, an inclusive playground with a handicap play area and autism interaction area.
“Melissa and her family’s drive to build the playground in Logan’s memory inspired our Foundation to join the cause,” said Fran Brolley, SRCCF CEO.
