History

In November 1973, Dolores C. Sullivan's dream of establishing the Vernon Hills Park District became reality. With a Board of 5 Commissioners, the Park District designed and defined the District's future.

Today, nearly 35 years later, the Vernon Hills Park District is still striving to meet the leisure needs and physical activity demands of a rapidly growing Village. The Park District boasts more than 400 acres of parkland and waters throughout the Village that serves as a backdrop for leisurely walks as well as competitive sports leagues and festivals.

As Vernon Hills has grown, so has the Park District. Executive Director Larry DeGraaf oversees a staff of 21 full-time employees and more than 300 part-time and seasonal employees who are responsible for providing quality programs and community events, maintaining five facilities and 21 parks, and continually meeting the needs of Vernon Hill's residents.

In January 2003, some of the administrative staff moved into the former Village Hall, now known as the Larry Laschen Community Center. In addition to the office space, the Laschen Center offers additional room rentals as well as a home for more Park District programs. The Dolores C. Sullivan Center, 635 N. Aspen Drive, still serves as the heart of the Park District, housing some of the administrative personnel as well as most of the programs the Park District offers. The soul of the Park District, its maintenance staff, maintains the upkeep of all parks and facilities, including landscape work, snow and ice removal, and sports field development.

In addition to the Web site, four program brochures are mailed to all residents throughout the year. And students attending schools in Hawthorn District #73 receive a monthly newsletter during the school year that acts as a reminder of events and programs. From youth baseball to a variety of summer camps, the Park District prides itself in offering quality family-oriented programs and events.

Current News and Highlights

Wireless Internet

is available at the

Laschen & Sullivan

Community Centers