A Love Story…
The love story of the Sun Foundation started 51 years ago because thousands gave their time and resources to foster bright futures for our children and health of this planet. Thank you for the part you have played, and will play, in writing this growing love story. Now, our fourth generation of students rely on your help to continue their story with educational resources to meet the challenges of our time. Only your support can ensure the Sun Foundation programs can continue for future generations.
The 32nd Clean Water Celebration will be held April 28, 2025. This event is free to the public at the Peoria Civic Center. To date, 71,200 students, teachers and the general public have attended our classrooms to interact with scientists, engineers, artists, and environmental community organizations. This program now offers online worldwide educational resources.
The 50th Art and Science in the Woods program will be held the week of June 9, 2025. Since this program’s origin in 1975, over 22,000 students have benefited from studying in nature on Blue Heron Farm. For five decades, thousands of students have received financial need scholarships, because we believe in their right to education.
The 35th Regional Art Partners regranting program will sponsor art programming between February 1–August 31, 2025. This program provides four underserved rural communities with up to $1000 grants to cover artist fees. In total, $15,000 was awarded from the Illinois Arts Council, the National Endowment for Arts and local donors who make this program possible. Since this program’s beginning, $500,000 has been awarded directly for public arts programs in our communities.
The Sun Foundation’s Seasonal Art and Nature programs are now being planned for 2025.
Please consider the Sun Foundation this holiday season. Automatic monthly gift options are also available.
Wishing you a happy holiday season and a new year of great health and happiness.
From our family to yours,
Bob and Joan, Ericksen Co-Founders and
Brett Ericksen Program Director.