(TRAVERSE CITY, MI – December 4, 2024) – The Traverse City Track Club is proud to announce the distribution of nearly $70,000 in grants to a diverse group of nonprofit organizations working to improve walking and running infrastructure throughout our region. The funding will support projects aimed at enhancing accessibility, safety, and recreational opportunities for walkers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
The following organizations have been selected to receive grant funding for their efforts to build, upgrade, and maintain local pathways and trails that promote healthy, active lifestyles:
- East Middle School: Funding will support a new records board for the Track Team.
- Forest Area Community Schools: This grant will help improve and expand the cross country trail for the school and greater community.
- Grand Traverse County Parks & Recreation: Grant funding will be used to enhance the Civic Center path, providing safer routes for runners and walkers alike.
- Kingsley High School Cross Country: Funds will go toward improving the team’s equipment and infrastructure, helping students and local runners achieve their best times.
- Kids on the Go: This program will use the grant to offer more walking and running activities for local youth, encouraging fitness through outdoor play.
- TART Trails: A cornerstone of our region’s recreational infrastructure, TART Trails will use the grant to extend and improve the Three Mile trail system.
- Thompsonville Area Recreation: This grant will help fund improvements to the Thompsonville Junction Trailhead and visitor’s center.
“Investing in the health and well-being of our community is at the heart of the Traverse City Track Club’s mission,” said Lindsay McLaughlin, Executive Director of the Track Club. “By supporting these impactful organizations, we’re not only helping to improve local infrastructure, but we’re also encouraging individuals of all ages to get outside, be active, and experience the joy of walking and running in our beautiful region. With these grants, we can make tangible improvements that will benefit residents and visitors alike for many years to come”
These grants are part of the Track Club’s ongoing commitment to creating a more walkable and accessible community, where individuals can safely enjoy outdoor fitness and recreation year-round. Additionally, many grants specifically support youth fitness and recreation.
“We are deeply grateful to the Traverse City Track Club for their generous grant. This support will be instrumental in fostering a unified team environment and inspiring our young athletes to embrace healthy, active lifestyles,” said Kathy Ostlund, Head Coach for the Kingsley Cross Country Team. “By strengthening these connections and encouraging a love of running during these formative years, we hope to set the foundation for lifelong wellness and camaraderie.”
Since the Traverse City Track Club’s inception, giving back has been at the core of our mission. Whether through time or financial resources, TCTC prides itself in making our community a better place for all to run, walk, stay healthy, and build community together.
“The TC Track Club has a strong history of supporting so many organizations in our community,” said John Chase, Director of Grand Traverse County Parks and Facilities. “This contribution will help ensure we can provide a premier experience for pathway users at Civic Center for years to come.”
For more information about the Traverse City Track Club and its grant programs, visit https://www.tctrackclub.com/.
The Traverse City Track Club (TCTC) was founded in 1962 and has grown to become one of the largest running clubs in Michigan. TCTC welcomes runners and walkers. Since launching in 2007, the TCTC Charitable Giving Program has awarded more than $2.5 million in scholarships and grants. For more information, contact execdir@tctrackclub.com or go to tctrackclub.com.
