Building Trails to a New Partnership

a news release of Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance, Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance and Michigan Fitness Foundation Join to Promote Active Living

A new partnership between the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance (MTGA) and the Michigan Fitness Foundation (MFF) has been formed to connect trails and get Michigan moving. The organizations announced today that beginning November, 2008, MFF will assume responsibility for MTGA’s administrative operations. MTGA’s board of directors and staff will continue to address their mission as an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit membership organization. For efficiency in operations, MTGA staff will move to the MFF office located at 1213 Center Street in Lansing’s Old Town. MTGA phone numbers and email addresses will remain the same.

MTGA’s mission is to foster and facilitate the development of an interconnected statewide system of multi-use trails across the state for recreation, transportation, conservation, health, and economic development.

"The shifting of the administrative burden will allow us to take the trails movement in Michigan to the next level," said Nancy Krupiarz, executive director of MTGA. "We will be able to more fully dedicate ourselves to advancing the development of Michigan’s interconnected trailways system."

Since 2005, the organization has provided technical assistance throughout the state on all aspects of trail planning, building, operations, and maintenance. MTGA is dedicated to working at the state and local levels advocating for policies that facilitate the development of trails. In addition, they educate the public through presentations, statewide trail maps and Web resources, and through the annual Michigander bicycle trail tour.

Marilyn Lieber, president and CEO of the Michigan Fitness Foundation, sees this partnership advancing both nonprofits’ missions.

"A connected system of trails is an essential component of active community environments. Enhancing the opportunities for MTGA staff and its dedicated board members to address trail programs, full time, supports our mission of promoting healthy lifestyles in communities designed to support physical activity."

The partnership was approved unanimously by the MTGA and MFF boards at their October meetings. It is anticipated that the move will be complete in December.

See Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance
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