By Beacon Staff
A few years ago, tennis enthusiast Brian Japsen took on a Herculean fundraising task — making up a shortfall of $76,000.
With that money, the Burlington Tennis Association could help the city offset the cost of repaving the Dankwardt Park tennis courts. The city received a $106,000 Starker Foundation grant, but resurfacing the Dankwardt Park tennis courts costs about $182,000.
According to Burlington Mayor Jon Billups, the city has been trying to fund the project for several years, hoping to match the grant money without using city funds. Funding that $76,000 shortfall proved to be the biggest barrier.
Japsen has drummed up more than $74,000 in pledges from a variety of donors, including a donation from the Judy and John Arledge Charitable Foundation, as well as another local foundation. Marcia Carman and Cindy Heater also helped with the local fundraising activities.
“We have had very generous donations from tennis players in our area,” Japsen said.
The Burlington Tennis Association presented the Burlington City Council with the first installment of $11,500 last week.
Billups said the fundraising campaign and initial contribution has enabled the city to accept bids on the project.
“The city thanks Brian and Renee (Brian Japsen’s wife), plus all those who pledged donations. Your efforts will benefit the parks and all,” he said.
Japsen, a 1978 BHS graduate who has been playing tennis since middle school, gets the satisfaction of helping his city and the firm footing of a springy new tennis court.
“If you take a look around we have the RecPlex, the brand new sports bubble, and two awesome golf courses. Why not great tennis courts?” Japsen said.
Donations are still being accepted for the project. Monetary donations can be mailed to Burlington Tennis Association: 1925 Osborn Street, Burlington, Iowa 52601.
(Editor's Note: Everyday Heroes is an ongoing series featuring people who make a difference in our community. If you want to nominate someone for a story, contact us at burlingtonbeacon@gmail.com or message us on Facebook.)
Photo by Joy Mack
The tennis courts at Dankwardt Park in Burlington are in need of resurfacing. Thanks to the fundraising efforts of tennis enthusiast Brian Japsen, the repaving project is moving forward.