Woman raises funds for community, wins High 5

Brooke Walker reporting More than a decade ago, a South Mountain developer gave the city of Draper an unfinished five-acre park and amphitheater. Area residents set to work, raising money to build a new performing-arts center on the land to attract concerts and plays. The city agreed to match the money raised.

Draper resident Teri Purles had never organized a fundraiser before, but made it her personal mission to help with a cause she believed would better her community. Earlier this week, we gave Teri a High 5.

Through the weeds and concrete, Teri sees something more in the five-acre park. The land was donated more than 10 years ago, and residents took on the challenge to raise $250,000 to transform the empty space into a thriving community amphitheater and home of the arts.

It's a goal Teri believes in. And even a head cold couldn't keep her from meeting who she thought was a future contributor. When Teri pulled into the parking lot, it was obvious she did not expect to see us.

"Teri, you look a little surprised," I told her. "My name is Brooke and I'm with KSL TV. This is part of our High 5 series, where we like to publicly thank people for doing good in the community."

Teri's neighbor, Leighann Gilson, nominated her for the High 5. She described Teri as the type of person who is the shining example of what it means to commit to something for the good of the community.

"This has been a long process, and a hard process, but it's worth it. And you keep reminding us of that, even though it's not always easy. I know you've donated a lot of time, a lot of effort," Leighann said.

Teri said, "I just really believe in this project and what good it will do to our community in bringing it together."

Maridene Hancock, public relations specialist for the Draper City Council said, "Teri is the type of person every community wishes she had, and we have her here and we're going to keep her here. You go to an event, and they have a table there, raising money to build her dream."

Teri's dream and effort are very deserving of the High 5.

She said, "Enjoying the arts and creating, bringing our families together, becoming better neighbors and friends. I believe all those things can happen up here."

So far, Teri has raised an estimated $200,000, which is just shy of the goal. Currently, the City Council is deciding which version of the plan to pursue for the land.

If you have someone you would like to nominate for a High 5, check the link on this page.

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