Since the inception of the corporation, discussions have occurred with officials from state government relative to the thinking of the advisory board and the reasons for formulation of a non-profit corporation.  Because of those deliberations, a letter of agreement has been created which establishes and reiterates the various role relationships that will exist between the state park and its employees and the Foundation and any activities and projects that it undertakes.  Essentially, the Foundation is committed to raising funds that will be utilized for capital purposes for various capital projects that have been properly approved by the Kentucky Department of Parks or in keeping with the master plan for developing E. P. “Tom” Sawyer State Park property.  In addition, the agreement confirms the policy-making authority of the Kentucky Department of Parks and its continued responsibility for providing the fiscal support of operating expenses that are a part of the total E. P. “Tom” Sawyer State Park operation.  Under this agreement, the Foundation does not make for the park and its recreational system nor will it attempt to influence policy.

The Foundation also established the Independence Day Celebration, held the Saturday before the Fourth of July.  The celebration consists of a concert, fireworks and recognition of veterans and brings about 15,000 people to the park.  After 15 years, the event has become a tradition for many guests and it is now a major project for the Foundation.  The event costs about $15,000 to produce and can only take place if sufficient sponsorship is obtained.

Since 1982, the Foundation has received grants, gifts and sponsorships in excess of $1,500,000.  This figure includes a $140,000 reforestation grant from the Mary and Barry Bingham Fund, which resulted in over 2,500 trees being planted in E.P. “Tom” Sawyer State Park.  The amount also includes a $1,000,000 donation by Jean Sawyer-Hayes, widow of Erbon Powers Sawyer, for the construction of the Conference Center located on the backside of the park.  The Foundation periodically purchases items for the park that would not be available otherwise due to the lack of state funds for capital items.

The board of directors of the Foundation plays a very important role by providing citizen input and support to the staff, help in marketing the park and raising funds for events and projects that might not otherwise be funded by the state.  The “Tom” Sawyer Foundation is a model that other state parks have followed.