Civic Foundation's Rain Barrel Project Raises $8,000

In addition to enlivening the sidewalks of Silver Spring Drive and conserving rain water, the also brought in $8,000 that will go toward an environmental initiative in the village.

Local businesses sponsored the 30 artist-decorated rain barrels, bringing in $2,300. While they were on display this month, silent auction bidders spent a total $4,700 to purchase the barrels for themselves. The project also received $1,300 in sponsorship money from Sweet Water.

The Whitefish Bay Civic Foundation, which coordinated and sponsored the rain barrel project, held a reception for the public to meet rain barrel artists Thursday night at , 505 E. Silver Spring Dr.

This was the first year the foundation sponsored and coordinated the rain barrel project, and foundation member Anne O’Connor said it received a lot of positive feedback from the community.

“I think a lot of people went into it and learned what rain barrels were for the first time,” she said. “I think it was good to raise awareness of rain barrels and a good way for people to appreciate art in their community as well.”

O’Connor said the money will go toward an initiative that promotes environmental sustainability or public spaces. She said the foundation will work with village administration to determine the most appropriate use for the money.

The Civic Foundation sponsors the Sounds of Summer, the Fourth of July celebration, The Great Pumpkin Festival and other events in the village. To learn more about the civic foundation and its mission, visit the organization’s website.