By Keely Baribeau
A Community Foundation donor advised fund (DAF) is set to provide up to $126,000 in grant funding to four rural townships, aligning with the Foundation’s new rural strategic focus area. These grants will significantly enhance public spaces and recreational opportunities in small towns.
The funding will support a biking and walking nature trail in Emmett, another in Lynn Township, parking and pathway improvements for a new accessible kayak/canoe launch in Ira Township, and court renovations for pickleball and tennis in Grant Township.
“Each township has been diligently working on their recreation plans, updating project estimates, and setting aside their own funding to bring these projects to fruition,” said Patti Manley, Chairwoman of the Community Foundation Board.
“Projects like these require multiple layers of support, and we are excited that one of our donor-advised fund families believes in the value of these rural initiatives,” added Jackie Hanton, Vice President of the Community Foundation. “In the coming months, townships will receive grant decisions from other funding partners, and this DAF will provide any gap funding needed to ensure these projects move forward this year.”
The impact of these grants goes beyond infrastructure improvements; they foster greater community engagement. “Our walking/bike/nature trail will run right through where we currently host the Farmers Market,” explained Scott Mueller, Emmett Park Committee Chairman. “Vendors can set up on either side of the trail, and kids can play on the nearby playground equipment.”
Emmett looks forward to adding to the park space that’s becoming more of a hub of activity. “Every Thursday, we have a Farmers Market, and every Friday, a Car Cruise,” said Mueller. “We also host martial arts and yoga classes, and Farrell Elementary did a Spring Cleanup on Earth Day 2024. The park is being used more than ever, and this grant opportunity has been a game-changer for community engagement.”
For townships like Ira, these grants help bridge long-standing gaps in recreational funding. “Over the years, I noticed that smaller communities often lacked resources for expanding parks and recreation,” said Babisz. “The County PARC Millage has been instrumental in maintaining existing parks, but we were unsuccessful with SPARK Grants. When a donor-advised fund at the Foundation stepped up, we were amazed and grateful for this incredible opportunity. It provides a tremendous boost to our parks and recreation goals in Ira Township.”
Babisz highlighted the vital role of the Community Foundation in making these projects possible. “As a longtime supporter of the Community Foundation of St. Clair County, I encourage everyone to consider supporting its philanthropic efforts,” she said. “This grant will help us advance our accessibility goals, and working with Community Foundation consultants and planners has been an invaluable experience that will benefit Ira Township for years to come.”
The Foundation’s rural focus area is about more than just funding; it fosters collaboration and long-term sustainability. “Each of the communities in our regional rural recreation program understands this importance,” said Nancy Winzer, City of Port Huron Parks and Recreation Director. “Their commitment to these projects is incredible, and we will keep working together to make them a reality.”
Ready to learn more? Contact Jackie Hanton at www.StClairFoundation.Org to discover how you, your family or your business can partner with the Community Foundation and support rural communities. Together, our support can strengthen our rural communities and the recreational opportunities for our local families.