The Albion Park was awarded $3,000 in funds from the Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) Rural
Development Grant Program. The funds will be used to assist with expenses associated with
the second phase of a multiphase improvement plan. In 2024, these plans include new
playground equipment, including near the softball diamond, updating one set of bathrooms,
and building pickleball courts.
“We are proud to support the park board in their efforts to revitalize the park and our
community and are grateful that we can bring these funds to them,” stated Kenny Clodfelter,
president of the Edwards County Farm Bureau.
The Edwards County Farm Breau uses the park for organizational programs and applied for the
IFB Rural Development Grant funds to assist Albion Park in their renovations. The park’s long-
term plan fits within the general standards for funding- community beautification, expanding
recreational opportunities and revitalizing community spirit.
Rural development is a high priority for the Illinois Farm Bureau, and a current focus of the
Local Government Team in the organization. To further enhance IFB’s engagement with and
support of rural development efforts that benefit its members, funds were allocated to support
local community efforts to improve and enhance their communities, through the first ever IFB
Rural Development Grant Program.
The main purpose of the IFB Rural Development Grant Program is to provide funding for
investment in projects being implemented in rural communities that will positively impact
Farm Bureau members and other residents.