Programs & Partners
The Community
Marian's Place is a valuable partner to Oakville and the surrounding communities, providing a multifaceted sanctuary for all. As a place of gathering, it brings people together, fostering community spirit and connection. Our accessible walking and hiking paths, along with planned outdoor workout and mindfulness areas, promote physical activity and well-being. The beauty of the surroundings inspire artistic inspiration. Families find a unique space to bond and create lasting memories, while those dealing with medical conditions like Dementia, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, TBI, PTSD, and recovery from heart and cancer ailments benefit from an environment designed for healing and rejuvenation. By offering these diverse resources, Marian's Place enhances the quality of life for residents, supporting mental, physical, and emotional health, and contributing to a stronger, healthier community. In partnership, you can help us by keeping the grounds clean and undisturbed. Please do not bring any vehicles of any kind within the grounds, do not pick or damage the flowers, pick up after your dogs as in any other part of the park, and pick up any trash that you or other visitors may have left, as we have no crew. Community involvement, engagement, sharing and caring essential for us to carry on with our mission.
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St. Louis County Parks and Recreation Department
Since 1983, Tom Rollins and George Foster have owned substantial Mississippi River floodplain lands adjacent to Cliff Cave County Park. In 2004, they partnered with St. Louis County Government to donate a significant portion of these lands to St. Louis County Parks and Recreation Department, facilitating the park's expansion for day-use recreation. This development included a large pavilion, river overlook, parking, restrooms, and approximately 7 miles of hike/bike trails constructed by Great Rivers Greenway, now maintained by SLCPRD. To accommodate park facilities, 45 acres were elevated with earthen fill, 11 acres of which are owned by Tom as part of the partnership and form the core of the 50-acre Marian’s Place project. Tom and SLCPRD continue to collaborate on site planning, public access, and support infrastructure benefiting both parks, fostering a commitment to nature, wellness, and community.
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Missouri Department of Conservation - Missouri Recreational Access Program
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), funded by the USDA Farm Bill, partners with private landowners to administer conservation programs that enhance public engagement with the natural environment. Enrolled landowners receive financial incentives, habitat restoration assistance, and limited liability protection, while allowing public access for specified recreational activities. Marian's Place joined this partnership in April 2024, opening its grounds for wildlife viewing and bank fishing along the Mississippi River shoreline. This collaboration underscores our dedication to nature, wellness, and community, ensuring visitors can enjoy the serene environment while supporting conservation efforts and promoting public well-being.
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The Veterans Administration
Located about 5 miles from Marian’s Place, the Veterans Administration (VA) Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery and Hospital benefits from therapeutic site visits organized by Tom, a Vietnam Veteran (Marines). Committed to supporting veteran health, Tom has also established a bee-keeping site at Marian’s Place for the “Hives for Heroes” national veterans therapy organization. These initiatives offer veterans a peaceful environment for physical and mental rejuvenation. Tom aims to expand collaborations with the VA, reflecting our mission to nurture quality lives through healing, connection, and support for those who have served our country, fostering community and wellness for all.
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The World Bird Sanctuary
Tom and Marian have been integral to the World Bird Sanctuary (WBS) for over 40 years, fostering a deep connection to avian wildlife and conservation. Their longstanding involvement has led to a partnership at Marian’s Place, where numerous rehabilitated raptors and birds have been released over the years. The WBS plans to enhance its educational and outreach activities at Marian’s Place, fostering a deeper connection between the public and avian wildlife through annual events and programs. This collaboration aligns with our mission principles of nature, wellness, and community, providing educational opportunities and promoting wildlife conservation, while creating a space for healing and reflection.