Community Success Stories

Portis

Like many other small towns, Portis had a PRIDE program that fell to the wayside. In fall of 2005 a group of residents decided it was time to revitalize the program. They got busy and filed their articles of incorporation and completed the paperwork for their non-profit status.

Upon approval, they started soliciting donations from their residents and alumni through a mailing. They collected adequate funds to start on their first project, repair of the playground equipment in the park.

The equipment had been neglected for a long time. It needed painting as well as some repairs for safety’s safe. With tools in hand, the repairs were made and the equipment repainted.

Next, the addition of some new pieces. Two playhouses and slippery slides were added. They were able to add the pieces in a manner so that it connected with the old and gave it the look of new modern equipment. The youth in town were excited see the additions.

With the addition of the playground equipment, the need for a shelter became apparent. There was not place for families and friends to gather while the kids played. Funds were solicited from the Sarver and McFadden Charitable Trusts making the shelter a reality.

Through volunteer help, the foundation was poured in the summer of 2007. In the spring of 2008 the cement block walls were added and finally the trusses and metal roof . On June 25, 2008, the shelter was dedicated to Scott Noel, a Portis farmer, who tragically lost his life.

In the spring of 2008, while working on the shelter house, the group was looking ahead their next project. They applied for a Get It! Do It! Grant and were successful. Funds from the grant were used to run a cement basketball court. Additional funds were also received from the Sarver and McFadden trusts. Wet weather prohibited the group from completing the task in 2008 but in the spring of 2009 construction began. The court was formed, fill sand added to level the ground, wire mesh inserted to add stability and finally the cement was poured. Basketball games could finally be played with the addition of one permanent and one portable goal.

In 2010, Portis is actively working on adding a sidewalk from the shelter to the street.

The park improvements are making a difference for Portis. They now have a safe and attractive place for kids and their families to attend and play in. As you drive through town, the park catches your attention and you are impressed with the facility for the size of the community.

The park has become the center for many community activities. PRIDE sponsors the Easter egg hunt in the spring where as many as 50 to 70 young children participate. Following the hunt, cookies and drinks are provided.

Late in the summer, the town grows as the local churches sponsor their annual appreciation picnic. The park provides them with the ideal setting.

To learn more about Portis, CLICK HERE to visit their community website!

Return to PRIDE SUCCESS STORIES