Forward Corp. announced today that it will match up to $20,000 in donations to the Arenac Community Center during the center’s next fundraising campaign.
From March 1 through April 30, every dollar donated to the center will receive a $1 match from Forward, up to $20,000. The funds will go to support the center’s “Project Fitness” campaign, which will fund the construction of a park on-site at the center. The addition is expected to include a playscape, gazebo, walking path and dog park. Construction is expected to begin later this year.
“We are beyond humbled that Forward Corp. has stepped up to the plate with this generous offer,” said Shara Klenk, director for the Arenac Community Center. “Their support will go a long ways to helping us achieve our fundraising goals for this project.”
Forward’s pledge is significant for the fledgling center which opened for the first time in 2019 thanks to the efforts of local citizens who saw a need for more community programs and facilities. The center offers a variety of community programs, meeting space and recreational activities, as well as after-school programs. The center is also in the process of obtaining licensing for a childcare facility on-site.
“We’ve been inspired by the hard work that’s gone into getting the center off the ground and running,” said Forward Corp. President Abby Moniz. “Helping families and helping our community is important to Forward, and the Arenac Community Center aligns perfectly with that mission.”
The on-site park will create additional recreational use for the center as well as create eligibility for further grants and funding. Klenk said an outdoor recreational area has become necessary in light of the pandemic and the restrictions placed on indoor gatherings. The center is currently closed due to COVID-19 restrictions, but will reopen its doors March 1.
“We’re excited to get up and running again,” Klenk said. “Our community is hungry for the center and we look forward to seeing everyone again very soon.”
Those wishing to make a donation to Project Fitness and Forward’s match campaign can do so on the Arenac Community Center’s website at arenaccommunitycenter.org.
Donations can also be made in person by visiting the center located at 583 East Cedar St., Standish, MI, 48658. Its business hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.