ABA Monthly Member Highlight:
Every month we sit down with one of our amazing ABA members to get to know them a little better! We ask each member the same questions, providing an opportunity for our members to highlight the important work that they do in our communities. If you’re an ABA Member and would like to be considered for future Monthly Member Highlights, please reach out to us via email at info@altonbusinessassociation.com.
Q: Tell us about your business?
A: The Friends of Alton, NH Parks and Recreation is a volunteer organization dedicated to enhancing recreational opportunities for the Alton community. We are in the process of becoming a 501(c) 3 nonprofit, which will expand our ability to secure funding and make projects like Jones Field Project possible with little to no impact on local taxes.
Q: Tell us about yourself:
A: The Friends of Alton, NH Parks and Recreation is operated by a passionate group of volunteer community members. Our board members bring a diverse range of skills, experiences, and a shared love for Alton. Together, we work to create opportunities that bring people together, support healthy lifestyles, and celebrate the beauty of our town.
Meet the incredible board members who make it all possible: President: Jill Houser, Vice President: Sarah Goodrum, Director: Carol Diveny, Secretary: Kelly Sullivan Treasurer: Joanna Fencer, Ex-Officio: Kellie Troendle.
Q: How did your business get started?
A: The Friends of Alton, NH Parks & Recreation, a volunteer fundraising board, and fundraising arm of Alton’s Parks & Recreation Department, was originally created as the Friends of Alton Parks & Recreation Committee in June 2022. The Committee was created after several caring, community parents expressed an interest in seeing improvements to Alton’s public playgrounds, especially at the Jones Field Recreation Area on Letter S Road. Since that time other community residents joined to help in this effort. With guidance and support from the town and Alton’s Parks & Recreation Department, the committee transitioned to a volunteer organization which will be well positioned to better support fundraising efforts for Alton’s Parks & Recreation Department.
Q: What has your relationship with the Alton Business Association done for you or your business?
A: The Alton Business Association will be a great partner in helping us connect with the community. As a new ABA member, we’re already seeing the benefits through their incredible support, including being featured as Member of the Month!
We’re excited about the increased visibility and connections that ABA membership offers. From networking events to community outreach, their platform will help us share our mission, and grow support for accessible, updated playground spaces in Alton, NH. We can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish together!
Q: What do you value most about this community?
A: The kindness and caring that is shown for one another and sense of volunteerism among community members and the impact of their contributions that make Alton a desirable and better place to live.
Q: Why did you want to open your business in this community?
A: Because we are the fundraising arm of Alton’s Parks & Recreation Department. This is where we live, work, and play, and we’re passionate about creating a thriving, welcoming community for everyone to enjoy. Alton is more than just a town—it’s home, and we’re proud to contribute to its growth and success.
Q: What business accomplishment are you most proud of?
A: The establishment of our Friends organization as a registered nonprofit corporation and our continued efforts toward designation as a 501 (c) 3 charitable organization as well as a community-wide feasibility study process we initiated to help guide us in the early stages of planned playground renovations.
This has been a complex and labor-intensive journey, requiring a tremendous amount of time, effort, and dedication. We are taking a thoughtful, organized, and professional approach at every stage to ensure our plans are well-informed and sustainable. By building a strong foundation, we are setting the stage for meaningful progress that will benefit the entire community for years to come.
Q: What does the future hold for you and your business?
A: As a soon to be nonprofit, charitable organization, we foresee the ability to create opportunities for more community engagement in fundraising to support expansion and improvements to Alton’s recreational activities, programming and community play spaces.
Q: What is one piece of advice you wish you had as a new business member?
A: Do your research and be prepared! Success often comes from the right combination of preparation and opportunity. Take the time to understand the community’s needs, build relationships, and establish a solid foundation before you begin. As the saying goes, “Luck is when preparation meets opportunity.” The effort you put in upfront will pay off in the long run.
Q: How can people who want to learn more about you or your business get in touch with you?
A: We’d love to connect with you! We are currently conducting a community-wide feasibility study that will help inform our next steps for a successful fundraising effort for playground renovations at Jones Field. Take our survey! We’d greatly appreciate your input. No computer? No problem! The Gilman Library is ready to assist.
To learn more about our mission, upcoming projects, and to take our survey, visit our website at friendsofaltonnhparksrec.org. You can also stay up to date by following us on Facebook at facebook.com/friendsofaltonnhparksrec.