To boost outdoor recreation, the Council of Michigan Foundations (CMF) and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) partnered to distribute over $24 million in Spark Grants.
This initiative aims to revitalize public recreation spaces in 29 Michigan communities hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Spark Grants program is designed to eliminate obstacles to creating, renovating, or redeveloping public recreation opportunities.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting its potential impact on Michigan’s economy and quality of life. Whitmer emphasized that Michigan’s parks are vital for driving tourism, jobs, and economic activity across the state.
The governor noted the administration’s record-breaking investments in state and local parks, explaining that the latest round of funding would support projects that foster community, enhance a sense of place, and promote healthier, more active lifestyles.
“Let’s keep working together to help more Michiganders discover our beautiful natural resources, relax with family and friends, and enjoy a Pure Michigan summer,” Whitmer said.
The program, administered through the CMF Statewide Equity Fund, focuses on equitably guiding resources to communities that have made minimal or no previous investment in parks and recreation.
The framework for this innovative grantmaking model was developed with input from an advisory group comprising experts in philanthropy, regional government planning, parks and recreation, and other relevant fields.
Kyle Caldwell, CMF president and CEO, underscored the partnership’s importance in addressing historical inequities. Caldwell highlighted CMF’s pride in collaborating with the DNR to guide public resources toward increasing access to recreational opportunities in historically underrepresented and under-resourced communities throughout the state.
“We are grateful for the leadership of the many community foundations who served as conveners and are walking alongside their communities, ensuring community voice is centered in developing equitable solutions to enhance healthy recreation opportunities for all residents,” Caldwell explained.
Among the 29 communities benefiting from this funding, several exciting projects are set to transform local landscapes. In Benton Charter Township, residents will soon enjoy a new park complete with a playground and splash pad. The City of Inkster is also updating Wheatley Park with improvements to its restroom, baseball field, and playground.
Additionally, the City of Highland Park is set to see significant improvements, with the addition of new baseball fields and pickleball courts.
For more information about CMF/DNR Spark Grants, visit michiganfoundations.org.
