FOOLISH CLUB
Be bold enough to believe in Ralph Wilson Park.
Be part of Buffalo’s boldest legacy.
In 1959, Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. and seven other visionaries risked it all to create a new football league. The national media branded them the Foolish Club for daring to believe in something that didn’t yet exist. Ralph believed in Buffalo and made an initial investment of $25,000. His gamble gave Buffalo the Bills—and a legacy of bold action.
Today, the Ralph Wilson Park Conservancy’s Foolish Club carries that same spirit forward. This founding membership honors the earliest believers—the ones willing to step up now and help ensure the future of Buffalo’s most transformative public space.
Now, with nearly $250 million invested in Ralph Wilson Park—one of the largest public park investments in the country—some say it’s foolish again. We say: Buffalo deserves the best.
Don’t miss our Foolish Club Holiday Bash on December 23rd!
Why Join
Symbolic
Your $25 annual membership echoes Ralph Wilson’s original bold investment.
Meaningful
Your membership helps maintain and sustain Ralph Wilson Park—its trails, playgrounds, fields, shoreline, and free community programming.
Powerful
When thousands join together, we’ll ensure this world-class park thrives for generations.
Founding Member Perks
When you join the Foolish Club, you’ll receive:
An exclusive Foolish Club t-shirt + digital badge to share on social media
Recognition as a founding member of a once-in-a-generation project
Sneak peeks, early access, and behind-the-scenes tours
Pride in saying I’m a member of the Foolish Club. I sustain Ralph Wilson Park.
Invitations to monthly happy hours at BriteSmith Brewing and other local spots
Our Call to You
We are launching this brand-new way for Buffalonians everywhere to leave their mark on a once-in-a-generation project.
Double your impact! Choose the “Pay it Forward” option & become a member yourself AND donate one to a community member who otherwise couldn’t join.
Their boldness built a legacy. Now, it’s our turn.
Are you bold enough to be foolish?
Pay it Forward
When you Pay It Forward, your additional membership gift will be shared with someone who otherwise couldn’t participate. Just as Ralph Wilson and the original Foolish Club once believed in investing in Buffalo’s future, you’ll be carrying that same spirit forward—making sure everyone has the chance to be part of this bold new chapter for our city’s waterfront.
Your generosity keeps our community connected, inclusive, and strong. Together, we’re building a park—and a membership—that belongs to everyone.
If you’d like to be a member of the Foolish Club but aren’t in a financial place to join right now, reach out to us at info@RWParkBuffalo.org.