Progress continues to be made on fundraising for the Grand River Greenway and the Idema Explorers Trail with a $50,000 gift from the Consumers Energy Foundation.
“‘Leaving it better than we found it’ is a stand we’ve taken as a company and a foundation as we consider Michigan’s future,” said Brandon Hofmeister, president of the Consumers Energy Foundation. “We have called this great state home for 130 years and the contribution to Ottawa County Parks’ Grand River Greenway will help ensure continued access to the river and adjacent trails for generations and provide citizens of all ages unlimited opportunities to hike and explore the area’s natural beauty.”
Consumers Energy, its foundation, employees and retirees last year contributed over $17 million to Michigan nonprofits. The Consumers Energy Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Consumers Energy, providing funds for education, community, civic and cultural development, social services, the environment, and emerging issues.
“We appreciate the Consumers Energy Foundation’s consideration and support of the Grand River Greenway,” said Monica Verplank, co-chair of the Grand River Greenway Committee. “Recent studies continue to illustrate the positive affect even a brief dose of nature has on our overall well being. As community leaders we have a responsibility to encourage and support healthy lifestyle options for our community members. Providing access to green space and connecting our communities with the Idema Explorers Trail is a key piece of our vision. We couldn’t do it without the support of our partners.”
Back row L-R: Rich Houtteman, Consumers Energy; Tom Werkman, Ottawa County Parks Foundation; Curt TerHaar, Ottawa County Parks.
Front row L-R: Bradley Plummer and Katherine Green, J.H. Campbell Plant Staff/Consumers Energy; Monica Verplank, Grand River Greenway Committee Co-Chair; Carolyn Bloodworth, Consumers Energy Foundation