Youth Scholarship Program
All children grow, learn, and benefit from the arts, recreation and play!
The Decatur Park District recognizes that financial assistance may be required for some individuals to participate in Park District programs. To provide equal access regardless of ability to pay, a Youth Scholarship program has been established for qualified Decatur residents. Eligibility is based upon family size and income level. Awards are made without regard to race, religion, age, disability, or national origin. For details, please call 217-422-5911.
Download the scholarship form here
Jerry Menz arts Scholarship
The Jerry Menz Arts Scholarship provides opportunities for talented youth to succeed at the highest possible levels in the arts by offering scholarships for the Park District’s programs in voice, music, theatre and dance. The Arts Scholarship is presented in honor of Mr. Jerry Menz, who served as Decatur Park District Director of Recreation from 1961 – 1993 and was a driving force in the creation of many of the District’s cultural arts programs, including the Decatur Park Singers, Young Park Singers, Greater Decatur Chorale, Best of Summer Stock, Storyteller Theatre, and the Park District’s dance programs.
During his tenure, Menz also served as a mentor to youth in the arts, including former Park Board Commissioner Chris Riley and his wife Karen. A Decatur native, Riley participated in B.O.S.S., the Young Park Singers, and the award-winning Decatur Park Singers. Riley continues his involvement as a singer/soloist in the Greater Decatur Chorale and in the promotion of the District’s cultural arts programs for youth.
To be considered for the Jerry Menz Arts Scholarship, artists are asked to complete an application, available below or at the Poage Arts & Recreation Center. Applications are taken for the fall/winter term and the summer term. Call 217-421-6648 for information on application deadlines.
Kroger Community Rewards Program
Youth in Decatur Park District programs can benefit from your participation in Kroger Rewards! With just a few simple steps, you can grocery shop and support the Park District’s Youth Scholarship Program at the same time! Last year we provided $7,610 in scholarships. Please help us increase our impact by supporting this important program that gives area youth access to arts, sports, special recreation, zoo camps, DISC preschool classes, and more! Each time you shop at Kroger and scan your rewards card, 3% of your purchase will go to the Decatur Park District’s youth scholarship program (some exceptions apply). Thank you for your support!
Registering is simple, and the Kroger Rewards Program will NOT take away from your fuel points. Follow the directions below to register for the Kroger Rewards Program.
1. Go to Kroger.com
2. Set up an account or sign in to your existing account
3. Click on Community
4. Click on Community Rewards
5. View Your Rewards Details
6. Scroll to the bottom to find Community Rewards
7. Edit
8. Type in Decatur Park District