Birmingham's Memorial Bench Program

Welcome to our Memorial Bench Program! This offers a unique way to honor loved ones, celebrate special moments, or contribute to your community in a meaningful way. By dedicating a bench, you create a lasting tribute that provides a space for reflection and connection, complete with a personalized QR Plaque linking to your own Digital Story.

Why Participate?

1. Create a Lasting Tribute: Dedicate a bench that symbolizes your connection to the community and tells your story for generations to come.
2. Share Your Legacy: Each bench includes a QR Plaque that links to a Digital Story, allowing you to share photos, captions, and memories.
3. Enhance Community Spaces: Your dedication helps improve public areas, creating inviting spaces for all to enjoy.

For questions about donating to our Memorial Bench Program, please contact our Recreation Department at: (248)-530-1642

How to Participate

1. Click “Adopt this Item”: View our map of available bench listings to see where you can leave a lasting legacy in our community. These locations have all been identified by the city and are ready for you to claim. If you’d like to propose a location that you don’t see, please click ‘Propose’ on our Community Profile to suggest a spot for your donation.
2. Submit Payment: On your chosen item, click ‘Adopt this Item’ to check out and pay online. You will receive an email with a letter acknowledging your tax-deductible contribution. If you prefer to pay by check, please drop it off at City Hall.
3. Customize your Plaque and Digital Story: Once your contribution is processed, you’ll receive an email inviting you to join SeeMyLegacy, where you can create a custom plaque message and begin sharing your Digital Story.

Our Guidelines

1. Installation: After payment is received, the city will handle purchasing and installing the bench or other amenities at the chosen site, with installation occurring during suitable weather conditions and as city personnel are available. All donations will be reviewed to ensure they align with the Parks and Recreation Master Plans.
2. Public Use & Maintenance: Donated items will be open for public use, and the donor has no ownership rights. The city will maintain donated elements to the best of its ability but is not obligated to provide perpetual care. In the case of damage, theft, or loss, the city may choose to repair or replace the item at its discretion.
3. Content Moderation: The city reserves the right to review and approve all plaque messages and Digital Stories. Any language that is inappropriate, factually inaccurate, or infringes on third-party rights may be moderated or rejected.
4. City Discretion: The city retains full discretion over the final placement, design, and details of donated elements, even if suggestions from donors are provided. This ensures that all contributions meet the city's aesthetic and functional goals.
5. Recognition: All donors will be recognized in Birmingham's Community Giving Profile. Those who have opted for a plaque will also have their Digital Story accessible to park visitors. Naming rights for any park feature or element require approval from the City Commission.
6. Tax Deductibility: Donations to the City of Birmingham may be tax-deductible, and we encourage you to consult with your tax advisor.

For questions about donating to our Memorial Bench Program, please contact our Recreation Department at: (248)-530-1642