Friends of Benson Park, Inc.

28 136844

2026 Goals:

  • The “soft opening” of the Benson’s Museum & Discovery Center featuring a memorabilia collection honoring the history and legacy of Benson’s Wild Animal Farm, a beloved animal park that operated on the park property from 1926-1987. The Discovery Center portion will present hands-on learning experiences and fun interactive exhibits and animal educational programs that connect visitors with the natural world and its inhabitants.
  • Open the seasonal Gift Shop in the Elephant Barn from May-October with a volunteer staff to sell ice cream, cold drinks, souvenirs, books and t-shirts with all profits going toward the museum completion.
  • Addition of a new board treasurer and three new trustees interested in Benson Park.
  • Family Events & Concerts
  • Host 6th Annual Family Fun Day

Fundraising Events:

  • NH Gives Online Fundraiser – June 2026
  • Casino Gaming – Nonprofit Charity Affiliation (TBD)
  • 6th Annual Family Fun Day – September 2026
  • Annual Membership Appeal – November 2026

Giving Opportunities:

  • Museum Construction & Exhibit Costs
  • Museum Exhibit Sponsorships
    (Exhibit Donated By…)
  • Event Sponsorships – NH Gives
    Fundraiser & 6th Annual Family Fun
    Day
  • Private & Corporate Donations
  • Memorial Picnic Tables Fundraiser
  • Grants
  • Memberships (Individual, Family, Senior & Corporate)

Volunteer Opportunities:

  • Board Trustees
  • Museum Planning Committee
  • Park Event Planning Committee
  • Benson Park Store – May-Oct.,
    Weekends, Sales & Management
  • Monthly Park Clean-up, 3rd Sat. each month – April-Oct.

Board Officers   /   Board Members

Natalie Newell
Board President

John Leone
Board Vice President

Karen McLavey
Treasurer

Nicole Henry
Secretary

Jan Horvath

Jim Leach

Peter Schnabel

Bill Zink

Charitable Giving Guide 2026 Cover 1Charitable Giving Guide

This profile is part of NH Business Review’s 2026 Charitable Giving Guide.

To learn more about the Charitable Giving Guide and other New Hampshire nonprofit organizations, please visit www.nhbr.com/CGG.

 

 

Categories: Charitable Giving Guide, Charitable Giving Guide 2026