Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
“On behalf of our board of directors, volunteers, members, guests, students and staff, please accept our sincere appreciation for considering a gift to the campaign. It’s extremely important to the future of Meijer Gardens.” — DAVID HOOKER, PRESIDENT AND CEO, FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK
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Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
table of contents A New Chapter in Our Love Story......................................................... 4–5
New Outdoor Picnic Pavilion...............................................................36–37
The Case for Support.....................................................................................6–7
Expanded and Accessible Parking and Urban Gardens........38–39
What Will Be Built........................................................................................... 8–9
Gardens and Sculpture Changes and Additions.............................. 40
Architects........................................................................................................... 10–11
New Endowment Fund....................................................................................41
New Welcome Center................................................................................. 12-17
Growing and Expanding: Having A Positive Impact...............42–43
New Covenant Learning Center...........................................................18-23
Naming Opportunities.................................................................................... 44
New Padnos Families Rooftop Sculpture Garden.....................24-25
Our Promise to You...........................................................................................45
New Cook Transportation Center..................................................... 26–27
Campaign Leadership..................................................................................... 46
Expanded Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater................... 28–31
In Gratitude............................................................................................................47
New Sculpture Garden Entry Plaza.................................................. 32–33
Pledge Form and Naming Opportunities.......................Back Pocket
Expanded and Renovated Existing Building...............................34–35 CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
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“People deserve a place that inspires them, challenges them, and offers opportunities to consider the beauty and mysteries of the human experience.” —FREDERIK MEIJER
Fred and Lena Meijer in the Milan, Italy studio of Arnaldo Pomodoro in 1999. Chuck Heiney Photography.
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A NEW CHAPTER IN OUR LOVE STORY At its heart, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a love story. And like all great loves, it begins with two people whose affection for one another has left an immeasurable impact on the world around them. In celebrating their life together, Fred and Lena Meijer have changed countless lives—from family, friends and fellow philanthropists to the community they cherish to visitors from around the world. Fred had a great admiration for, and appreciation of, sculpture and art. Lena loves flowers and plants. In joining their love of these two art forms, Fred and Lena created Meijer Gardens. More than two decades later, their generosity, along with the generosity of their three sons, continues to make Meijer Gardens a community point of pride and distinctive destination for visitors around the globe. It was visionary leader Betsy Borre, a Meijer family friend and a woman with unmatched determination, who first approached Fred for a gift to establish a botanical garden. While they thought it was a great idea, neither expected that 21 years after opening our doors, more than 10.4 million visitors would agree. “Well, we didn’t know what we were doing when we started the gardens,” said Fred, “but it turned out OK.” He was a master of the understatement. As we’ve grown in size and scope, Meijer Gardens has gained recognition and earned accolades from esteemed publications such as The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, which in 2016 cited Grand Rapids as a top travel spot and featured Meijer Gardens. The Art Newspaper of London regularly lists Meijer Gardens as one of the 100 most visited museums in the world.
Our growth in attendance has been extraordinary: For the second year in a row, 750,000 people visited Meijer Gardens. Membership has grown steadily, too. As of October 2016, we had 27,900 member families. Our volunteer corps exceeds 700. Both our volunteers and employees are stewards of Meijer Gardens, called upon to fulfill our mission to promote the enjoyment, understanding and appreciation of gardens, sculpture, the natural environment and the arts. Our sustained success is directly attributable to the significant financial support we’ve received from members of the community. Each gift, whether from an individual, family, company or foundation, has generously and critically enabled our growth. We are truly grateful. Your support empowers our step forward with our new capital campaign, Welcoming the World: Honoring A Legacy of Love. The name expresses our commitment to welcome all people from around the world to explore the beauty and mysteries of the human experience, and to honor the love story that is Meijer Gardens. Through this campaign, Meijer Gardens is aiming to reach new heights. You are invited to join us on this wonderful journey! Gratefully,
Ping Liang
David Hooker
Chair of the Board
President and CEO, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
“Our parents’ love story is one for the ages, and it inspires our family to celebrate them. We hope you’ll join us in supporting the next chapter of growth and success for Meijer Gardens.” —HANK, DOUG, AND MARK MEIJER
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AN EVER-CHANGING, EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCE Since its opening in 1995, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park has evolved into a major cultural attraction focusing on horticulture, sculpture, the environment and the arts. The original vision has turned into a top cultural destination in the United States, known internationally for the quality of the art and gardens. Our growth in visitors has been nothing short of phenomenal. Matching that has been the growth of our art collection, our dedicated garden spaces and our educational offerings. Since the beginning, our focus has been on delivering an exceptional visitor experience for every member, guest, artist, gardener, student and volunteer who visits Meijer Gardens. The Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love capital campaign will enable us to continue keeping this promise. Through the generosity of The Meijer Foundation, our Board of Directors participated in a master planning process to address facility needs in response to our significant growth. Outside professional assistance from Progressive AE and Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. has helped complete our process. Specific criteria were developed to guide the expansion of our facilities. Those criteria include: • F urthering our mission, which states: Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park promotes the enjoyment, understanding and appreciation of gardens, sculpture, the natural environment, and the arts. • C ontinuing to honor Fred and Lena Meijer and all our generous donors. • C reating spaces that allow people to move about safely and easily and inspire them to engage with our mission. 6
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• P lanning for annual guest attendance of 1.2 million to 1.5 million. • C reating additional space that is LEEDcertified and architecturally significant. • C onducting and completing a worldwide search for an architectural partner with national and international experience creating cultural institutions. • A dding parking capacity and significantly improving vehicle movement.
THE CASE FOR MORE SPACE We’re thrilled with this phenomenal success! Simply put, we didn’t anticipate growth of this magnitude so quickly. At the same time, it provides an amazing opportunity for Meijer Gardens to build on our success—to bring joy to more visitors, to welcome new audiences, to educate more people, to create unique exhibitions, and to offer new and distinct visual experiences all four seasons of the year. With more space, we can enhance the experiences of our members and guests. We can ease ticket lines, host more events, and give guests more room to move about during our popular annual exhibitions. We also plan to update and expand our storage areas so we can continue the safekeeping of our valuable works of art, and maintain our archives containing important historical documents. Changes in these areas are critical to helping us preserve and perpetuate our mission.
GUEST ATTENDANCE SINCE 1999 FY 1999 FY 2016 207,000 GUESTS 750,000 GUESTS
= 10,000
262% INCREASE = 1.2 TO 1.5 MILLION PROJECTED ANNUAL GUEST ATTENDANCE
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NEW WELCOME CENTER
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The new 60,000-square-foot, LEED-certified Welcome Center will be a major architectural feature for our campus. The driving force behind it is our dramatic increase in attendance—more than 750,000 people now move through a space that was originally designed around an annual attendance of just over 200,000. The new Welcome Center will greatly enhance the arrival, admission and orientation experience for our guests.
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NEW COVENANT LEARNING CENTER
Our significant growth in attendance has also necessitated an expansion of the Scenic Corridor, which will be widened to accommodate increased guest traffic. This will provide a larger footprint for annual exhibitions, as well as greater access to the sculpture galleries. This expansion will also connect the new Welcome Center on two levels, creating a seamless integration that will enhance the guest experience, from both a visual and accessibility perspective.
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The new LEED-certified Covenant Learning Center will engage learners in new ways and reinforce our commitment as the go-to place for cultural education. At 20,000 square feet, the new center will enhance the quality and variety of our programming. The space will promote interactive learning, foster creative thinking, integrate technology, and support a wide range of educational offerings.
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NEW COOK TRANSPORTATION CENTER With a main campus that has grown to 158 acres, our tram tours have become a popular feature of the Meijer Gardens guest experience. In addition to these guided tours, trams support special events, such as weddings and other social and corporate events. The new Cook Transportation Center will offer more covered space and accessibility for waiting guests, provide a convenient restroom stop, and provide offices for staff and volunteers.
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EXPANDED AND UPGRADED FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS AMPHITHEATER West Michigan’s favorite outdoor venue for local and legendary musicians alike, the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater provides an intimate setting where artists can connect with fans on a uniquely personal level. While maintaining this intimacy, the amphitheater expansion provides an increase in sponsor seating, a new support building that adds capacity for more food and beverages, and restrooms for people waiting in line to enter the venue.
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NEW SCULPTURE GARDEN ENTRY PLAZA The new plaza will architecturally and functionally tie together the entrances to the Welcome Center and the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater. These are the only two places that guests enter Meijer Gardens. The conveniently located new plaza brings more parking spaces closer to the guest entry points. In addition, the plaza will be an outdoor gathering place that strongly represents our dual mission of horticulture and sculpture.
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EXPANDED AND RENOVATED EXISTING BUILDING
NEW OUTDOOR PICNIC PAVILION Outdoor picnicking will now be given the proper space and beauty most befitting this favorite guest tradition. Currently, guests may picnic in limited areas that offer basic amenities. The new pavilion will dramatically expand the number of guests who can participate, with restrooms and parking conveniently located close by. The architectural and natural beauty of this area will strongly support our mission.
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EXPANDED AND ACCESSIBLE PARKING AND URBAN GARDENS This new expansion and redesign will double the number of parking spaces located within a one- to two-minute walk from our new Welcome Center entrance. The new configuration will offer additional accessible parking spaces near the entrance, increase the number of parking spaces overall, and add new urban and rain gardens to control water runoff— honoring our commitment to be good stewards of our environment.
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GARDENS AND SCULPTURE CHANGES AND ADDITIONS The dramatic changes in the Meijer Gardens footprint will make it necessary to move or recreate existing gardens—such as the Tassell-WisnerBottrall English Perennial and Bulb Garden—to new spaces. As well, existing and newly acquired sculptures will be artfully sited in accordance with our unique mission. Together, these exciting changes will create a new aesthetic for our guests—and fulfill our brand promise to be Always New.
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NEW ENDOWMENT FUND The Endowment supports the financial health of Meijer Gardens, making sure this cultural institution brings joy to as many guests as possible—for as long as possible. The expansion of our facilities will require additional endowment funds to provide adequate support and the continuing viability and sustainability of the institution. This is an important part of honoring Fred and Lena’s enduring legacy.
HONORING FRED AND LENA’S LEGACY Fred and Lena Meijer have always loved gardens and sculpture. Since 1995, they have shared their love of thought-provoking and beautiful art and green spaces with more than 10.4 million visitors through Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. This legacy continues to resonate not only within the community of West Michigan, but also as an iconic cultural institution regionally, nationally and internationally. The institution’s growth is a testament to something distinctly human—the need for beauty, to connect with nature and the arts, and to gather as a community. We strongly believe our growth will continue, and this great institution will thrive for decades and generations to come. At its very essence, Meijer Gardens is a place of joy—and a legacy of love shared by Fred and Lena, the Meijer family, and thousands of employees, volunteers and donors who have created a special corner of the world. One that is Always Growing, Always Beautiful, Always New.
WELCOMING THE WORLD: HONORING A LEGACY OF LOVE PROJECTED COSTS Construction
REACHING OUR GOALS
13%
$90,900,000
New Welcome Center
87%
New Covenant Learning Center New Cook Transportation Center Expanded Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater New Sculpture Garden Entry Plaza Expanded and Renovated Existing Building
GOAL = $115 MILLION
New Outdoor Picnic Pavilion
Expanded and Accessible Parking and Urban Gardens
Gardens and Sculpture Changes and Additions New Endowment Fund TOTAL COSTS
C ommitted $99.9 MILLION AS OF MARCH 1, 2017
Still Needed $15.1 MILLION
“Because Meijer Gardens has brought joy to so many guests, managing growth has been our greatest, and happiest, challenge.” —EARL HOLTON, HONORARY BOARD MEMBER
9,100,000 15,000,000 $115,000,000 CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
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TOD WILLIAMS BILLIE TSIEN ARCHITECTS Tod Williams and Billie Tsien are internationally renowned for their masterful designs. They are the visionaries behind the Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment at Princeton University and the iconic Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia. The Barnes Foundation contains the most significant collection of Impressionist and early modern art in the world, including works by Paul Cézanne, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Vincent van Gogh. It is interesting to note that the Barnes Foundation is a product of Dr. Albert Barnes’ love of art and Mrs. Laura Barnes’ love of horticulture. Most recently, Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects was selected from a prestigious group of seven finalists to design the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. Unforgettable spaces like these come to be only through uncompromising collaboration between the architects and the institutions, and ours is no exception. The spirit of shared respect and fluid partnership will continue to energize every step of our journey. Guided by Tod and Billie, the design team will ensure that the new Meijer Gardens campus is an expression of our mission in both form and function. 10
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THE ARCHITECTS’ WORK
“When we met with Tod and Billie at their studio in New York, we immediately developed a rapport that has grown into a strong relationship.” —RICHARD BROLICK, LONG RANGE PLANNING COMMITTEE CHAIR 2014-2016
The Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
IN SEARCH OF EXCELLENCE The goal from the beginning was clear: Partner with an architectural team that has national or international experience designing cultural institutions. Our search process included reviewing the work of 64 architects based in the United States, Europe and Asia. We consulted with individuals and organizations experienced in working with internationally known architects. Trips to Chicago, Philadelphia and New York were made to tour facilities and interview potential partners. At the conclusion of the search process, the search committee unanimously and enthusiastically recommended Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects to the Board of Directors.
IN BEAUTIFUL BAL ANCE From our first meeting, Tod and Billie understood our desire to achieve a balance between our current campus of buildings, botanical gardens and sculpture collection and the new facilities and grounds. Their passion matched our vision for creating cohesion—the existing facilities such as the iconic Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory must co-exist harmoniously with the newly created facilities, as if they were meant that way all along. The new campus will make a clear, compelling statement that blends an unmatched visitor experience in a distinctive cultural institution that celebrates the world’s finest art and horticulture while serving humanity for generations to come. It truly will be an homage to Fred and Lena’s love story and their passion for our community.
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“A sketch is the visualization of an idea, a concept. It changes, and leads to greater things.” — JOSEPH BECHERER, CHIEF CURATOR AND VICE PRESIDENT, FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK
1 Sketch: Welcome Center VIEW: LOOKING NORTHEAST
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WELCOME CENTER HIGHLIGHTS Courtyard Level Sunken Garden
Animated by natural light brought down from above, this glass enclosed garden will be a visual focal point. Visitors to the Peter M. Wege Library and the indoor picnic area will enjoy a beautiful garden space.
Expanded and Relocated Peter M. Wege Library
This space will be expanded to 2,000 square feet and will have a new home on the Courtyard Level.
Archives and Storage
This new space provides a permanent home and a single, centralized location for our archives. It will house handwritten notes, signed contracts, curatorial files, and other significant documents. It will also be home to our twodimensional art collection (prints, drawings, etc.). This 4,500-square-foot space will have climate-control and fire-protection systems appropriate for space dedicated to valuable document and art storage.
Indoor Picnic/Gathering Area
Located near the Sunken Garden, the new Indoor Picnic/Gathering Area offers an attractive and relaxing place for guests and visitors to gather at tables and chairs.
Storage Expansion
With its new location, this area expands our storage capabilities to 5,700 square feet. The space will be used to safely store exhibition materials and sculpture, as well as meet the storage needs of various departments at Meijer Gardens.
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NEW WELCOME CENTER HIGHLIGHTS This new 60,000-square-foot building will be a major LEED-certified architectural feature of our main campus, along with the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory. Highlights of the new Welcome Center include:
Main Level Garden Pavilion
Making a spectacular architectural statement, the Garden Pavilion will embody our dual mission by showcasing breathtaking horticultural displays and internationally renowned sculpture. The space is strategically positioned to allow for inspiring views of the relocated Tassell-WisnerBottrall English Perennial and Bulb Garden and to bring natural light inside. Guests will experience our mission and gather important information to plan their visit. From the exterior, the façade will compliment and be in sympathy with the iconic Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory.
Sculpture Garden Entry Plaza
Currently, Meijer Gardens’ main entrance and the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater entrance are architecturally different. The new Sculpture Garden Entry Plaza will give one architectural voice to both entrances and allow for the two spaces to functionally complement each other. Vehicles can drop off passengers under a protective canopy. Once inside, guests will take comfort in welcoming, way-finding signage and additional security protections.
Expanded and Relocated Peter C. and Pat Cook Entry Arbor
This area is immediately next to the Sculpture Garden Entry Plaza and allows guests to quickly enter a protected area for year-round comfort.
Expanded and Relocated PNC Portico
This area is immediately next to the Sculpture Garden Entry Plaza and provides a covered area for guests to gather.
Coat Room/Restrooms/Wheelchairs
At 1,200 square feet, the new coat room will have a coat check or self-service coat hanging, and access to interior wheelchair and electric cart storage and check-out. Much-needed additional restrooms for men, women, and family usage will be located immediately adjacent to the coat room.
Expanded and Relocated Daniel and Pamella DeVos Visitor Center
This area is where members and guests obtain their tickets. The new space is an impressive 3,800 square feet—300% larger than our current admissions area—and will allow for a more comfortable, streamlined experience. The actual ticketing desk will also provide enhanced employee and volunteer work space and security. Visitors will be immersed in our mission as well, with horticulture and sculpture prominently displayed. The stone walls will feature strategically placed glass window panels to frame optimal viewing spots like the beautiful Kent Garden Club Ram’s Garden.
Orientation Theater/Multi-Purpose Room This new space is designed to accommodate 75 people in theater-style seating. Visitors will be welcomed to Meijer Gardens and introduced to its origins and history through a short film. The new Orientation Theater will double as a multipurpose meeting room.
Expanded DeVos/Keeler Gift Shop
Our retail space will undergo an 800 squarefoot addition. The new shop connects directly to the Welcome Center and offers natural light and a view of the Ram’s Garden.
Veranda
Located adjacent to the Garden Pavilion, this special space can be entered only through the Tassell-Wisner-Bottrall English Perennial and Bulb Garden and will be an ideal spot for gathering and celebrating, either informally during a visit or at a formal private event.
Square footage numbers represent the architects’ estimates and are subject to change.
VIEW: LOOKING EAST
Sketch: Welcome Center 16
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VIEW: LOOKING EAST
WELCOME CENTER
Sketch: Welcome Center
750K
262% 207K
GROWTH:
ANNUAL GUEST ATTENDANCE 1999—2016
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“The Covenant Learning Center will usher in an exciting era of expanded programs, increased capacity and new audiences.” — LINDA THOMPSON, DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK
2 Sketch: Covenant Learning Center VIEW: LOOKING SOUTHWEST
NEW COVENANT LEARNING CENTER Since our beginning, education has been a hallmark of the Meijer Gardens mission— reaching more than 89,000 guests last year alone. In fact, the action word in our mission statement is “promote.” Education is the primary method by which we put life into the word “promote.” The dramatic growth of participation in our educational programming not only underscores the quality and diversity of our classes, camps and events, but also demonstrates a need for more classroom space. Guests to the 20,000 square-foot, LEED-certified Covenant Learning Center will have views into classrooms through glass walls, revealing the activities within and connecting to the outdoor environment—which also serves as an educational learning space. Five of the six classrooms will have direct access to outdoor learning areas, and can be expanded with movable partitions. Covenant Learning Center Welcome Lobby The Covenant Learning Center Welcome Lobby will be the point of entry for the interactive education area, classrooms and administrative offices. The lobby will display program offerings, and allow credentialed access to classroom areas. There will also be space for stroller parking and student drop off and pick up.
Two Expansive Classrooms
Interactive Education Area
Interactive learning is accessed directly from the lobby through paired, full-glass doors. Daylight and views will energize this space and the lobby, connecting guests to outdoor environments. This area will provide great flexibility of usage, adaptable to large classroom groups.
Outdoor Learning Area
Two 1,600-square-foot classrooms will be wellsuited for large lecture gatherings, as well as classes requiring plenty of space for students to work on larger projects. A full-height movable partition will include magnetic whiteboard surfaces for writing and displaying content.
All classrooms are designed to have access to outdoor learning, with five of the six having direct access from within the classroom. The outdoor learning area will be located east of the building and will include seating areas for students, teaching areas for instructors, and partial shade/cover from the elements.
Four Large Classrooms
Staff Offices and Support Spaces
Four 1,075-square-foot classrooms will support general education needs, including integrated technology, access to outdoor learning, and full-height movable partitions. This space will also allow school group classes to eat lunch indoors when necessary.
The Covenant Learning Center will include administrative office space and storage areas, in addition to in-classroom storage, which will accommodate items and content consistently accessed during classroom events. Square footage numbers represent the architects’ estimates and are subject to change.
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“The new Covenant Learning Center will be a wonderful addition to the learning landscape at Meijer Gardens. We are indebted to the anonymous donors who have so selflessly given to benefit students of all ages.”—PING LIANG, CHAIR OF THE BOARD
COVENANT LEARNING CENTER
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“Learning magically unfolds through classes at Meijer Gardens. Using nature and art to connect with students enables them to discover their own hidden gifts and talents. Adding the Covenant Learning Center will allow even more children to blossom.” — BETSY EDGERTON, VOLUNTEER AT MEIJER GARDENS, AND DEVELOPMENT AND OUTREACH COORDINATOR AT SAINT THOMAS THE APOSTLE CATHOLIC SCHOOL
EDUCATION PROGRAMS 89K
305% 22K VIEW: LOOKING NORTHEAST
Sketch: Covenant Learning Center Welcome Lobby, Courtyard Level 22
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GROWTH:
ANNUAL EDUCATION PROGRAM PARTICIPATION 1999–2016
VIEW: LOOKING NORTHEAST
Sketch: Covenant Learning Center
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Sketch: Padnos Families Rooftop Sculpture Garden VIEW: LOOKING SOUTHWEST
The Padnos Families Rooftop Sculpture Garden will provide a unique guest experience that presents our mission—the marriage of gardens and sculpture—in a design style that is unexpected and dramatically different from the rest of the Meijer Gardens’ campus. Guests will enter an expansive outdoor plaza punctuated with container gardens, urban-style plantings, meandering walkways, the reimagined Keeler Sculpture Terrace and Moore Terrace Garden, and other horticultural surprises waiting to be discovered—as well as a breathtaking view of our natural wetlands.
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“At 158 acres, our main campus has a lot to offer our guests. The new Cook Transportation Center will help make everything that much more accessible.” — KEN WENGER, VICE PRESIDENT, FIXED OPERATIONS
3 Sketch: Cook Transportation Center VIEW: LOOKING NORTHWEST
TRANSPORTATION
126%
158 ACRES
70 ACRES GROWTH:
MAIN CAMPUS 1999–2016 COOK TRANSPORTATION CENTER As the main campus has expanded to accommodate our spectacular attendance growth, guest mobility has become an important aspect of our commitment to accessibility. The new LEEDcertified Cook Transportation Center will function as the central hub for narrated tram tours, offering a comfortable and safe covered waiting and boarding area adjacent to Vickie’s Garden and the babbling waters of The Streams. It will be centrally located near The American Horse in the DeVos Van Andel Piazza, and the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden. In addition to narrated tours, trams support special events, such as weddings and other social and corporate events. The new Cook Transportation Center will provide a convenient restroom stop and water fountain, as well as offices for staff and volunteers.
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“As title sponsors of the Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens, we’ve seen first-hand how an intimate venue adds to the guest experience. The upcoming expansion and renovations will further enhance concert-goers’ enjoyment of this beautiful space.” —TOM WELCH, REGIONAL PRESIDENT, FIFTH THIRD BANK WEST MICHIGAN 28
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EXPANDED AND UPGRADED FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS AMPHITHEATER West Michigan’s favorite outdoor venue for local and legendary musicians alike, the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater provides an intimate setting where artists can connect with fans on a uniquely personal level. While maintaining this intimacy, the expansion will increase the capacity of the sponsor seating area and add permanent chairs. A new LEED-certified concessions complex will add quicker food and beverage service and increased capacity, as well as convenient new restrooms for guests waiting in line to enter the venue. A larger plaza area within the gates will help shorten lines and guest wait times.
4 Sketch: Amphitheater Plaza and Support Building VIEW: LOOKING NORTHWEST
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Sketch: Amphitheater Sponsor Seating VIEW: NEW AMPHITHEATER EXPANSION, FROM THE NORTHWEST (STAGE RIGHT), SHOWING THE NEW SPONSOR SEATING TERRACE
AMPHITHEATER 66,120
530% 10,500 GROWTH:
ANNUAL CONCERT GUESTS 2003–2016
“We can’t think of a more beautiful venue to see a concert and relax with family, friends or clients than the Meijer Gardens Amphitheater. In its intimate space, we can take a trip down memory lane with music we know, or enjoy new-to-us performers. We love summers at Meijer Gardens!” —DAN AND DIANE HICKEY
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“Meijer Gardens is a very special place. I’ve toured the gardens before my show each time I performed here—the Japanese Garden was absolutely stunning last summer! I wish I could have met Fred Meijer.” —BONNIE RAITT CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
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5 Sketch: Sculpture Garden Entry Plaza VIEW: LOOKING NORTHEAST
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NEW SCULPTURE GARDEN ENTRY PL AZA Providing access to both the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater and the new Welcome Center, the new Sculpture Garden Entry Plaza will function as a gateway and safe waiting area for guests entering the grounds for concerts and special events. In keeping with our dual mission of art and horticulture, the artful placement of sculpture, shade, diverse plantings, and seasonal color will provide a charming welcome for guests. The entry plaza will help connect and visually unify the Welcome Center and Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater into a singular guest gathering place.
VIEW: AERIAL SITE PLAN
Meijer Gardens main campus, highlighting the new Sculpture Garden Entry Plaza.
MAP KEY NEW SCULPTURE GARDEN ENTRY PLAZA
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SCENIC CORRIDOR
S C EN LENA MEIJER TROPICAL CONSERVATORY EARL & DONNALEE HOLTON VICTORIAN GARDEN PARLOR
KENNETH E. NELSON CARNIVOROUS PLANT HOUSE
EARL & DONNALEE HOLTON ARID CONSERVATORY
MAP KEY EXPANDED PORTIONS OF THE NEW SCENIC CORRIDOR
IC C
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EXPANDED AND RENOVATED EXISTING BUILDING The Scenic Corridor is one of our most beautiful and traveled indoor spaces. Always bustling with activity, the corridor has become center stage to beloved annual exhibitions such as Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World, Chrysanthemums and More, and Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming, which alone draws 180,000 guests through the corridor in just 61 days.
SNELL GALLERY
BANK OF AMERICA GALLERY
The Scenic Corridor expansion is a cornerstone of the capital campaign. Widening this central thoroughfare and gathering space will enhance our guest experience by increasing accessibility to restrooms and drinking fountains, and allowing more people to fully enjoy the corridor’s indoor container gardens, sculpture and educational opportunities. It also gives us new ways to delight guests with expanded exhibition displays. The Scenic Corridor will have LEED certification for commercial interiors.
A CHANGE IN SCENERY The new Scenic Corridor will increase from 13 feet to 23 feet at its narrowest point, and from 19 feet to 31 feet at its widest—a noticeable expansion. Guests will appreciate the many changes that will be made, including:
HOFFMAN FAMILY AUDITORIUM
HOLTON GALLERY
•A dmissions: The current desk will be moved to allow more gathering space and greater enjoyment of Beneath the Leafy Crown, Michele Oka Doner’s distinctive floor sculpture.
SCE
•R estrooms: Entrances will relocate to the north wall across from the DeVos/Keeler Gift Shop, improving access to large groups in the Grand Room.
NIC
C OR R ID O
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•S culpture Galleries: The entrance will be reconfigured and expanded to allow for additional exhibition space.
•C orridor Entrance: As you enter the Scenic Corridor from the south, the wall on the right will be pushed out and curved to mirror the curve on the opposing wall. •P eter M. Wege Library: The library will expand and relocate to the new Courtyard Level adjacent to the Sunken Garden. •H offman Family Auditorium: The auditorium will relocate as well. As you move past its current location, the right wall will be pushed out to make room for the expansion.
6 Architectural Drawing: Scenic Corridor VIEW: AERIAL
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OUTDOOR PICNIC PAVILION Since 1995, a popular amenity of the Meijer Gardens guest experience has included outdoor picnicking in three areas of limited size. The Outdoor Picnic Pavilion and connected plaza will dramatically expand the number of guests who together can enjoy this tradition. The new pavilion will offer convenient access to restrooms as well as nearby parking. Not only will the new pavilion tie in with our architectural design, the natural beauty of the area will strongly support our mission and provide the appropriate space to meet the growing needs of our attendees.
7 Sketch: Outdoor Picnic Pavilion VIEW: LOOKING NORTHWEST
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“The Picnic Pavilion will provide a beautiful environment for all guests to enjoy. In particular, school groups will find a comfortable, expanded space to accommodate their needs and enhance their field trip experience at Meijer Gardens.” — JESS HART, MANAGER OF INDOOR EDUCATION, FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK
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8 Sketch: Parking Expansion VIEW: AERIAL
EXPANDED AND ACCESSIBLE PARKING AND URBAN GARDENS This new expansion and redesign of our parking layout will double the number of parking spaces located within a one- to two-minute walk of our new Welcome Center entrance. The new configuration will offer additional accessible parking spaces near the entrance, increase the number of parking spaces overall, and add new urban and rain gardens to control water runoff— honoring our commitment to be good stewards of our environment.
PARKING EXPANSION 241
98%
TOTAL PARKING SPACES INCREASE 10% FROM
1,212 to 1,337
122 GROWTH:
PARKING SPACES WITHIN 2 MINUTE WALK FROM ENTRY EXISTING vs. NEW 38
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TOTAL HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE PARKING SPACES INCREASE 44% FROM
54 to 78
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GARDENS AND SCULPTURE CHANGES AND ADDITIONS This capital campaign embodies our brand promise to be Always Growing, Always Beautiful, Always New. In varying degrees, renovations will require the relocation of several gardens and works of sculpture. Each relocation creates an opportunity to use the knowledge gained over the past two decades, ultimately making the new spaces even more impactful on the guest experience. Several gardens and many sculptures will need to be relocated. The following two examples illustrate the opportunity. Garden A gift of Kent Garden Club, the Ram’s Garden occupies a significant spot near the entrance to our main building. With our expansion, much of this garden will be rebuilt. It will keep a prominent position in its new location, next to the new Welcome Center, and will continue to incorporate The Grand Rapids Press Terrace and Ram’s Garden Fountain surrounding our beautiful café. Our horticulture staff is working closely with our lead architect and landscape architect partners to design the new space. Sculpture Numerous works of sculpture will be relocated, including the iconic Bent of Mind by Tony Cragg. This piece will once again greet our guests as they enter Meijer Gardens. As with our garden spaces, considerable thought and effort go into siting sculpture. Our sculpture staff and building architects—and often the artists themselves—will work together to ensure a beautiful new setting for this work of art and others. New Opportunities At the core of our mission is the symbiotic interplay between horticulture and sculpture. The development of our new Welcome Center, Covenant Learning Center, Cook Transportation Center and other facilities provides an opportunity to further our mission by presenting new gardens and showcasing newly acquired sculpture in indoor and outdoor spaces.
9 VIEW: LOOKING NORTHEAST
Sketch: Gardens and Sculpture Changes and Additions
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10 New Endowment Fund
EMPOWERING A LEGACY Shortly after the 1995 opening of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Ray Loeschner had the idea and energy to start a foundation. Its purpose is to exclusively support Meijer Gardens. A few years later, Fred Meijer posed the question, “Do you think the Gardens will be here in a hundred years?” An inspiring leader, he never shied away from asking the tough questions. The days and conversations that followed have been devoted to building our shared legacy. With their significant gifts to the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation, Fred and Lena empowered us to look seriously and thoughtfully at our endowment needs. We meticulously manage and tirelessly strive to grow our endowment to help ensure the financial sustainability of Meijer Gardens. We are fortunate to have a separate 501(c)(3) foundation solely organized and dedicated to supporting our mission through several named funds that provide annual financial support. Essential to the longevity of Meijer Gardens, these gifts directly support annual maintenance, equipment replacement, education programs, sculpture acquisitions and horticulture care. Funds also exist to support specific attractions like the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden and The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden. Here’s an example. After many years of service, our trams reached the end of their useful life. Annual tram maintenance fees were not sustainable. At the same time, technology and vehicle improvement made new trams more efficient, quieter, safer and more accessible. New trams were acquired in large part because of the Foundation’s annual support. The Foundation’s independent board is charged with stewardship of Foundation assets and with raising funds to support Meijer Gardens and further our mission. All Foundation assets were given by Fred and Lena Meijer, The Meijer Foundation and many other individuals, organizations and foundations. A professional independent consulting firm advises the Foundation board on investment decisions.
“The boards of both the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation and Meijer Gardens have worked hard to create the structure and funding that are needed for its long-term financial sustainability. These efforts ensure that Meijer Gardens will continue to grow and be here for future generations to enjoy.” — JOHN G. BAAB, PRESIDENT, FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE FOUNDATION
A NEW ENDOWMENT A formal agreement between Meijer Gardens and the Foundation calls for a new endowment whenever a new capital campaign is initiated. A detailed analysis determines the project’s additional operating costs and the necessary endowment to support them. The Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love capital campaign includes a new $15 million endowment. A group comprising board members and staff from Meijer Gardens and the Foundation mutually determined the fund’s size. Securing an appropriate endowment is part of good stewardship. Our commitment to creating breathtaking gardens and an artistically significant sculpture park is matched by our commitment to maintain these treasures in a manner consistent with their design intent. The endowment is critical to this endeavor, as well as to perpetuating the legacy of Fred and Lena Meijer and furthering our mission for generations to come.
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“Our promise to deliver an exceptional visitor experience inspired this capital campaign. We believe in this community’s ability to rally around us and, with their support, ensure that we can continue to keep this promise.” —DAWN M. KIBBEN, VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION, FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK
GROWING AND EXPANDING: HAVING A POSITIVE IMPACT
OPERATING RESPONSIBLY
Throughout the book we have called your attention to the number of people who have visited Meijer Gardens to experience joy. It is extraordinary. Meijer Gardens also has an important and positive role in expanding the West Michigan economy. According to an independent study completed in January 2017 by Grand Valley State University, Meijer Gardens:
THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU & THE UNITED WAY SET A STANDARD FOR NONPROFIT PROGRAMMING EXPENSES AS A PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL EXPENSES. THE HIGHER THE PERCENTAGE, THE BETTER AN ORGANIZATION IS AT USING ITS GIFTS.
SUPPORTS more than 800 jobs annually in Kent County. CONTRIBUTES $75.2 million in annual economic activity. ATTRACTS visitors from outside Kent County, who spend $19.6 million annually at businesses around the county. A project of this magnitude also gives us an opportunity to earn the LEED certification for a campus or master plan for design and construction. Our extraordinary growth is matched by the equally exciting prospect of expanding the facilities on our main campus to better serve and bring joy to guests of Meijer Gardens. The page at right shows the totality of new spaces and places and how they will impact our existing footprint. The overlay shows the existing areas in black lines. The page beneath shows proposed facilities in color, for easy identification. Please keep in mind that while these drawings and sketches are close to actual construction renderings, they are subject to modifications.
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65% BBB
STANDARD
75% 87% UNITED WAY MEIJER GARDENS STANDARD
ACTUAL
PROGRAM EXPENSES AS A PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL EXPENSES SOURCE: BEENE GARTER LLP
MAP KEY EXISTING BUILDINGS NEW BUILDINGS
3
1 New Welcome Center 2 New Covenant Learning Center 3 New Cook Transportation Center 4 Expanded Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater 5 New Sculpture Garden Entry Plaza 6 Expanded and Renovated Existing Building 7 New Outdoor Picnic Pavilion 8 Expanded and Accessible Parking and Urban Gardens
2 4
6
7
1 5
8
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Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love
NAMING OPPORTUNITIES LEAVING YOUR LEGACY Recognizing financial gifts, as well as gifts of time and talent, is a common theme in our history, instilled by Fred Meijer himself. From the very beginning, he strongly encouraged donors to place their names at Meijer Gardens. A donor once asked to leave his name on a certain garden and structure that had already been designated to carry his and Lena’s name. When Fred found out, he advised us without hesitation to accept the gift. “I’ll still give my gift,” he noted, “but I love it when others think so much of Meijer Gardens that they want to name something, too.” Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love is the most ambitious capital campaign in our history, and it will transform Meijer Gardens. It would be a high honor for our board, staff, volunteers, member families and annual guests to have your financial commitment and your name—or the name of your loved one—at Meijer Gardens forever. A list of available naming opportunities is included in this book. Thank you for your consideration.
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“Good stewardship guides us in everything we do—it’s part of our culture at Meijer Gardens. We are committed to honoring our donors and volunteers and being good stewards of their gifts.” — DAVID HOOKER, PRESIDENT AND CEO, FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK
OUR PROMISE TO YOU Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is home to some of the world’s finest gardens and sculpture, many of which carry donor names like the Peter M. Wege Library, The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden and the James & Shirley Balk Gallery. Still more donors are recognized on notable displays and prominent plaques across Meijer Gardens. This recognition is intentional and important. Our promise is to not only recognize new campaign gifts, but to continue honoring those who have supported us in the past. So whether you have contributed a brick, stepping stone, tree, plaque or other donation, we remain committed to honoring and recognizing your support. If you have contributed to Meijer Gardens in the past, please know that even if changes are made to the location where your gift has been recognized, your gift will still be honored at the completion of the project. Our generous and faithful donors have embraced our mission, and we hold them close as dear friends. Their contributions, joined with those of Fred and Lena Meijer and the entire Meijer family, have created a place where people come to experience joy. For us, there’s no greater joy than honoring them. Please know that gifts of all sizes are vital to the success of our campaign. Gifts of $1,000 or more will be recognized in an alphabetized listing in the new Welcome Center. All gifts will be recognized on the Courtyard Level. Thank you for your support. CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
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CAMPAIGN LEADERSHIP HONORARY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE
Frederik Meijer (1919–2011) Lena Meijer Hank and Liesel Meijer Doug and Sarah Meijer Mark and Mary Beth Meijer
Rich Brolick Brian Cloyd Eileen DeVries Shane Hansen Earl Holton
CAMPAIGN CABINET MEMBERS
LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE STAFF
Ryan Anderson John Baab Tamara Bailey Betsy Borre Glen Borre John Bouwer Keith Brophy Kim Bruyn Joan Budden Linda Chamberlain Saralyn Coupe Randy Damstra Jeff Dean Scott DeVecht Eileen DeVries Joy Fossel Mike Gaudino
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Meg Goebel Matt Heynen Nancy Hickey Dirk Hoffius Ron Hofman Earl Holton David Hooker Dan Horning Cate Jansma Michael Julien Nancy Kennedy Yang Kim Jeff Lambert Gloria Lara Ping Liang Ray Loeschner Kathleen Maine
Janet Mason Mary McLoughlin Mark Miller Richard Morton Mark Mossing Craig Mutch William Padnos Jeff Padnos Janet Ramsey Bill Schoonveld Joe Taber Kathy Vogelsang Jill Walcott Vicky Weller Daniel Williams John Zimmerman
David Hooker President and Chief Executive Officer dhooker@meijergardens.org 616-975-3149
Ping Liang Mike Lloyd Mary McLoughlin Tom Merchant Jim Preston
Anne Benson Director of Development and Membership abenson@meijergardens.org 616-975-3177
Samantha Thornton Capital Campaign Coordinator and Master Plan Administrator sthornton@meijergardens.org 616-808-3609
For Fred and Lena, the excitement of acquiring Auguste Rodin’s masterpiece, Eve, was surpassed only by the joy they felt in giving it to Meijer Gardens for generations to enjoy. Unveiling and gifting, October 2000. Chuck Heiney Photography.
IN GRATITUDE Throughout this book we have expressed our love for and gratitude to Fred and Lena Meijer, whose legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of Meijer Gardens and the community at large. Now it’s time to focus the spotlight on you. The fact that you have this book in your hands means you already are a great friend to Meijer Gardens. We salute you for all that you have done for this organization. We are also grateful that you have taken time to carefully review the material presented in these pages and to consider accepting our invitation to support the Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love campaign. You may rest assured that any donation you make will be treasured and permanently recognized. You may also know with certainty that Meijer Gardens will be excellent stewards of funds entrusted to us. Both Meijer Gardens and the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation have earned the coveted Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator. In addition, Meijer Gardens far exceeds the guidelines set by the United Way and Better Business Bureau for nonprofit program expenses as a percentage of total expenses. That’s important. When you give to Meijer Gardens, you—like Fred and Lena—bring joy to others through our gardens, art, facilities, and exhibitions. Happily, Meijer Gardens partners with schools, agencies and other nonprofit organizations, and has its own internal programs, to bring our unique mission of sculpture and horticulture to underserved populations. By extension, you are part of this important outreach. Thank you for helping us promote learning and make lives better, more fulfilled, more enriched and more inspired. With gratitude, The Campaign Leadership LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE
LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE STAFF
Rich Brolick Brian Cloyd Eileen DeVries Shane Hansen Earl Holton
David Hooker Anne Benson Samantha Thornton
Ping Liang Mike Lloyd Mary McLoughlin Tom Merchant Jim Preston
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