Build with Heart: Eliza’s Park Project FAQ

What is Build with Heart: Eliza’s Park Project?

Eliza’s Park Project is Eliza J. Norton Foundation’s (EJNF) first capital campaign part of our Build

with Heart initiative. Our goal is to raise the necessary funds to construct dugouts at Cochituate

Ball Fields in Wayland. Through the Build with Heart initiative, we aim to improve specific

spaces in our greater community that were significant to Eliza and embody EJNF’s commitment

to play, expand access and empowerment. More information about Build with Heart: Eliza’s

Park Project can be found in this tribute video.

What will the fundraising dollars be used for?

We are working with contractors, the town of Wayland, and other partners to create the most

economical but inspirational dugouts for Cochituate Ball Fields. The current estimated cost for

this project is between $175,00 - $250,000. This estimate will cover the total construction

including materials and labor for four dugouts, fencing and equipment. Renderings below.

What are the future plans of Build with Heart?

While this is the first phase of Build with Heart, we anticipate more improvements to common

public spaces in years ahead. EJNF hopes to raise money for a playground renovation at

Cochituate Park as well as other improvements including pathways, welcoming areas, flower

beds, among others. Many communities have a central gathering space - Eliza has inspired

Cochituate Park to become ours. 

Is my gift tax deductible? 

The Eliza J. Norton Foundation is proud to be designated tax-exempt under section 501(c)3 of

the Internal Revenue Code (EIN 92-0513997). We also have greatly benefitted from corporate

matches. You might be able to increase your impact by asking your employer to match your

pledge.

What are the naming opportunities?

We have set various gift levels with naming opportunities that will help us reach our goal and

allow you to be a lasting part of our community. Your support will be recognized on our website

and at Cochituate Ball Fields. All gift levels are displayed on our Donate page.  

Can I combine my gift with other friends’ gifts to increase my impact? 

We hope you will consider committing to this special and integral project for EJNF. Families,

businesses, and community groups can make individual donations or pool together to achieve a

higher gift level. We have set different gift levels with naming opportunities for you to be a

lasting part of our community and this movement.

Who uses Cochituate Park? 

Cochituate Park is located at 40 West Plain Street, Wayland, MA. There are two softball fields, a

basketball court and fall youth football fields. There is parking, lighted fields, restrooms, stands

and a playground. Cochituate Park is used all hours of the day and night. It is used by our

smallest residents to our oldest residents participating in senior softball leagues.

I don’t live in Wayland, should I still give? 

Yes! This is currently EJNF’s fundraising priority and a donation to this capital project is a gift to

support our overall efforts. Symbolically and tangibly, this fundraising campaign and overall

outcome of the dugouts represents Eliza’s legacy. We are creating a place to visit, a place to

gather and a place to create memories…all in Eliza’s name. We have set various gift levels with

naming opportunities to allow you to be a lasting part of our community.

If I prefer to support another initiative at EJNF, what should I do?

We appreciate you supporting an initiative at EJNF that is within your family’s philanthropic

priorities and values. We are also seeking donations to underwrite our empowerment work and

accessibility to financial assistance in hockey and other team sports. All of this information can

be found on our website.