In 2026, the Ottawa County Parks Foundation proudly celebrates 10 years of Bridging Community to Nature. All year long, we will share special reflections from members of the Foundation’s founding Board of Directors.
What did the first meeting look like?
My first meeting was in 2015 and with John Scholtz who was the Parks Director at the time. A neighbor friend had mentioned that there was discussion about establishing a foundation to help support our Ottawa County parks. When I reached out to John expressing my desire to learn more, he invited me to his office and proceeded to share maps of various Ottawa County parks and natural spaces, and the vision of the Grand River Greenway and other projects. I was a regular Ottawa County park user at that time and was already impressed with our various Ottawa County parks, but I learned so much in that initial conversation and was certainly inspired to help. Shortly thereafter, a group of passionate and park-loving volunteers began to meet regularly at the Weaver House. In that beautiful setting, we drafted by-laws and articles of incorporation, envisioned initial friend-raising events and worked on communication and fundraising plans to launch the Ottawa County Parks Foundation.
Did this experience change you or your perspective?
I have learned a great deal through my involvement with the Ottawa County Parks Foundation. I am quite impressed by the Parks Commission and Parks staff, and appreciate what a group of dedicated, community-minded volunteers can accomplish – that has certainly been the case with our foundation’s board and committee members.
What motivated you to start the Foundation?
On the West Coast, I’ve seen beautiful parcels of land clear cut and then sold for development. I appreciate the vision and wisdom so many have shown in securing Ottawa County parks and natural spaces over the last several decades.
What was the need that you saw, which led to your involvement with starting the Foundation?
I recognized that private support would be necessary to help secure park properties, add amenities, support park programs, and take our parks from good to great.
What is your personal passion for parks?
I have enjoyed our Ottawa County parks for many years and in a variety of ways – I believe we have a park to suit most anyone, and I deeply appreciate what our parks and natural areas add to our quality of place in West Michigan.
However, through a cancer diagnosis and treatment in 2022, the parks took on added meaning for me. Walking in our parks was the most effective thing I found to manage swelling, regain strength, and maintain my emotional well-being. Sometimes friends joined me on these walks and those visits within our parks cheered my soul. Other times, I enjoyed the solitude of communing with nature on my own.
For anyone facing a wellness challenge, I encourage you to keep doing what you must to protect your health and well-being, even when it’s a bumpy road. For those not facing a wellness challenge – I encourage you to go celebrate your health and vitality in one of our fabulous parks. I invite everyone to consider how our parks can be a part of an ongoing wellness plan.
What did you personally get from starting the Foundation?
I feel a great deal of personal satisfaction with all that we have collectively accomplished. I also feel quite honored to have met and volunteered with the group of founding board members – I appreciate the vision, wisdom, expertise and good humor they brought to launching our foundation. On a more personal note, many of my dearest friendships have stemmed from my involvement on the board and a great deal of my social life plays out within our parks.
What is your favorite park and why?
I have several favorites. I love Rosy Mound and am thrilled about its expansion, and the balanced approach Ottawa County Parks is taking to protecting a large critical duneland tract, while providing accessibility to this popular park. I also love Pigeon Creek and enjoy looking for the first signs of spring there each year. I also love Grand River and Grand Ravines parks and the variety of features of those two parks combined.
Is there a moment that stands out to you from your childhood and being connected with nature?
There isn’t a moment that stands out for me. What does stand out is the many opportunities I had to be in parks and natural spaces. Growing up, my family regularly went camping. From an early age, I had the opportunity to hike, climb rock formations, go fishing and swim in rivers, lakes and the Pacific Ocean.
Who invited you outside to enjoy nature?
My parents invited me to enjoy nature in a variety of ways and a variety of settings. I cherish the memories of many adventures with them and my siblings.
What were your hopes for Ottawa County Parks and the Foundation?
I wholeheartedly believe in the Foundation’s vision and strive to do what I can to support the joy of nature woven into everyone’s lives. I have lived and traveled throughout Michigan, the United States, and internationally. These experiences have only deepened my appreciation for what makes Ottawa County such a special place to live, work and play. Our Ottawa County Park system is a huge driver of that quality of place. I hoped that the Foundation would serve as careful stewards of private support dollars to the benefit of our parks and park programming. I am pleased that the community has been so supportive of the Ottawa County Parks Foundation.