An ad hoc group of residents are canvassing the community seeking donations to erect lights at Glenbard West High School's Memorial Field, so far the group has collected about $135,000, according to group members. 

Glen Ellyn resident John Brodner is leading the fundraising efforts, hoping to raise enough money to entirely fund the installation of two 60-foot and four 70-foot light poles, with an estimated cost of about $325,000.

The group is almost half way to its goal and Brodner said he is confident enough funds will be raised by the end of March.

"There’s always been great support for good projects in Glen Ellyn," said Brodner. "I think with the support of the community we'll be able to raise these funds in the time that is necessary."

A mix of individuals have contributed to the growing fund, according to Brodner some have contributed as little as $10, while one donor made a "sizable contribution." Brodner would not specify the range of the large financial contribution, and according to him, this donor is not the sole funding source for the entire project. 

District 87 is hoping to raise the funds before architects draft bids for the project, which ultimately need school board approval. According to previous Patch reports, it might be too early to predict the outcome of the board's vote.

Even though the village board approved the lights and other improvements to the field -- which wil be funded by the district -- they may never reach completion. 

"We never indicated when those other projects would be done, if at all," explained Chris McClain, District 87 assistant superintendent for business services. "I’m hopeful that we could do all those projects. Those would all be nice enhance to the space, but they're not as high prorities as the lights right now."

Those interested in donating to the lights project can visit this link to make an online donation. 

Donation level information taken from fundraising literature:

$500-$2499

Donors will be recognized with a personalized brick paver installed near field entrance. 

$2500-$4999

Donors will be recognized with a large personalized brick paver to be installed near field entrance.

$5,000-$19,999

Donors will be recognized with their name on a commemorative plaque near the field entrance & a large personalized brick paver to be installed near field entrance.

$20,000+ 

Donors will be recognized by a plaque on a light tower, their name on a commemorative plaque near field entrance, & their name on a large personalized brick paver to be installed near field entrance.