Today we received an update on the Betsie Valley Trail and the Benzie County Community Chest from Jim Gribble, Community Chest Executive Director.
The Friends of the Trail have been forced to bear the considerable expense where willow trees have sprouted up through the surface of the trail. Next spring the Friends will turn their attention to resurfacing the trail between Beulah and Thompsonville. They are presently seeking grants from the DNR and elsewhere.
Jim also had a map showing new trail extensions envisioned for the future--some of which involved the development of a trailhead park in Thompsonville and a new beach-to-beach trail from Frankfort to Elberta.
The Benzie County Community Chest collects funds and distributes them to charitable nonprofits in the county, including
- Benzie Child Abuse Prevention Council
- Benzie Senior Resources
- Joy2Ride Benzie
- Benzie Area Christian Neighbors
- Crystal Lake Preschool
- Child & Family Services of NW Michigan
- Remain in Touch
- St. Philips Baby Pantry
- Habitat for Humanity of Benzie County
Revenues at the Community Chest are lagging this year, while the needs are increasing. Donated dollars stay in Benzie County.