In 2019, a new chapter unfolded as the PNC Championship and its longstanding charitable beneficiary – the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation – made a substantial commitment to enhance the Orlando community, contributing to the renovation of Orlando’s Lake Lorna Doone Park. This city park, which holds cultural and historical significance, is situated in the West Lakes and Parramore areas of Downtown Orlando. Site of the nation’s first integrated Little League baseball game, the park’s $8M renovation spanned multiple years.
For PNC and the Palmer Foundation, support for the renovation focused on the creation of the Winnie Palmer Nature Walk, now an extraordinary interactive experience within the park. Inspired by leadership and insight from the PNC Foundation’s “Grow Up Great” initiative, this nature-focused journey brings fresh air, joy, and new discoveries to local children and families. Dubbed “Winnie’s Walk,” it encircles the lake, offering a strong connection to nature with interactive “learn more” signage along the way. To further enrich the experience, the park’s dedicated rangers are happy to loan visitors eco-friendly backpacks filled with exploration tools, from binoculars to bird guides, encouraging deeper discovery. This short video speaks to the impact and importance of the ongoing effort.
Since late 2021, a “Neighborhood Naturalist” program, supported through grant to Orlando’s non-profit, Ideas for Us, has hosted ongoing nature discovery sessions at the park, community centers, preschools, and other centers for learning. This initiative aims to nurture children’s curiosity and cultivate an appreciation for the outdoors. Drawing inspiration from best practices at the Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve in Pennsylvania, nature education programs ensure that unique STEAM-based learning experiences commence at an early age and can continue.
Extending the educational outreach, children frequently transition from their free nature experiences within the park to engage in the Arnold Palmer Putting Experience adjacent to “Winnie’s Walk.” This high-quality putting course, mirroring the Bay Hill Club’s Championship course back nine, was created by the Palmer Foundation and used by youth organizations including Boys & Girls Clubs and First Tee, introducing children to the sport that Mr. Palmer loved.
The proceeds from the PNC Championship are helping to accelerate activities and expand the number of children and families benefiting. Reflecting on these impactful initiatives, Amy Palmer Saunders expressed heartfelt gratitude for the enduring collaboration: “We’re immensely grateful to the Central Florida leadership of PNC and its national leaders for a partnership that spans many years. The PNC Championship’s pivotal role in fortifying local families by instilling a love of nature in young children is leaving a lasting legacy of positive impact on the Orlando community.”