When addressing the subject of philanthropy, Vision 2020 should focus where the money is and that is with individual Americans. Incentives may be required to overcome perceptions that traditional funding is the only way to meet every park need. People give, and give in larger amounts, to specific things they care about. As Vision 2020 is crafted, it is important to emphasis local, place-specific philanthropy. Emphasis on the National Park System is misplaced as a stimulus to contributions.
People are reluctant to give to systems.
They want to contribute to those places that are meaningful to them. Vision 2020 should encourage citizens to support their favorite places those National Parks that provide the inspiration and experience that they enjoy. The result will be increased philanthropic support for all. In 1967 Congress created the National Park Foundation. It was the first foundation of its type, and at the time, unique in the non-profit world.