Field Trip to Origin Park

Discover how philanthropy, policy, and bold vision are shaping one of the most ambitious parks in America.

Join Indiana Philanthropy Alliance and the Paul Ogle Foundation for an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience at Origin Park—an urban conservation and recreation destination that is setting a new standard for venture philanthropy, economic impact, and cultural preservation.

Once a landscape of industrial waste sites and flood-prone brownfields, Origin Park is now a model of how philanthropy and public-private collaboration can transform communities.

Field Trips are an opportunity to experience standout projects led by IPA members. 

Discover the Power of Philanthropy at Work

Origin Park is a 430-acre urban riverfront park that is transforming a historically industrialized area into a thriving natural and recreational space. This ambitious project, spearheaded by BlueSky, River Heritage Conservancy, and backed by philanthropic leaders like the Paul Ogle Foundation, demonstrates how philanthropy plays a critical role in:

• Advocating for major community investments, influencing policymakers, and securing State budget funding to bring large-scale projects to life.
• Restoring and revitalizing urban landscapes, turning former industrial and flood-prone land into vibrant green spaces for recreation, conservation, and public use.
• Promoting economic development and quality of life, ensuring the park is accessible for all community members while attracting a broader audience with world-class sports amenities.

What Makes This Field Trip Special?

Understand How Venture Philanthropy Fuels Transformational Projects

• Discover how Ogle Foundation's venture philanthropy bridges the gap between traditional grantmaking and risk-taking investments to launch major community projects.
• Learn how philanthropy played a critical role in securing $37.5 million from the Indiana General Assembly—one of the largest state allocations for a public park in Southern Indiana.

Explore the Deep Cultural & Historical Roots of the Region

• Origin Park is located at the Falls of the Ohio, a site rich with Indigenous history, trade routes, and migration stories.
• Learn how the park’s development incorporates Native American cultural strategies, ensuring this history is honored and preserved.

See Environmental Restoration in Action

• The Army Corps of Engineers is playing a key role in restoring this flood-prone, industrial landscape into a thriving, ecologically rich public space.
• Learn about the environmental cleanup efforts, where former landfills and brownfields were converted into wetlands, forests, and recreational trails.
• Explore how environmental sustainability intersects with outdoor recreation, economic development, and public health.

Connect with Experts Driving the Future of Parks & Economic Development

• Meet project leaders, funders, policymakers, and sports strategists who are shaping the future of Origin Park.
• Gain insights on how this project secured major public funding and overcame policy hurdles.
• Discuss the intersection of sports, cultural heritage, environmental resilience, and economic strategy.