Recent Press Release

Alliant Energy Foundation supports Prairie Putt-Putt program

Imaginative course has golfers learning about the environment while playing mini-golf

MADISON, WI – May 1, 2008 – A resourceful young student came up with a creative way to raise funds and have fun at the same time. The Threshold Learning Center (TLC) After-School Kids Club constantly struggles to keep their after-school program running. Now, thanks to the fundraising effort of Threshold staff and a grant from the Alliant Energy Foundation, an exciting new golf course will soon open.

Following a field trip to a nearby mini-golf course, a student was reacting to the price they were charged to play and announced “we should build our own mini-golf course for Threshold.” The idea took hold and quickly gained momentum.

“The students worked hard on their plans and making the course come to life,” says Gretta Reischuaer, Executive Director – Threshold Learning Center. “We are especially pleased to receive the grant from the Alliant Energy Foundation allowing us to complete the course. We hope to open by mid-May.”

Students designed each hole of the Prairie Putt-Putt course. Each of the nine holes is a working model of the concepts taught at Threshold Learning Center – nature, recycling, conservation and archery, geology, Iowa History, astronomy, camping and water. Golfers will maneuver their ball along a streambed with ever-changing banks, water levels and flow. One hole features a working sundial and challenges golfers to land their putt in a specific hole according to where the shadow is cast.

“We are excited to provide dollars to such a wonderful project,” says Marty Fox, Executive Director – Alliant Energy Foundation. “This is a creative project which will help Threshold Learning Center sustain their program.”

The After-School Kids Club began with a start-up grant from the Alliant Energy Foundation in the spring of 2005. The goal of the program is to increase understanding of environmental, natural and science concepts. The Prairie Putt-Putt course will be available for the after-school program, as well as area residents and schools participating in TLC’s educational programs.

Media Contact: Nancy Craig (319) 786-4788