Gogebic Range Health Foundation Explores County-Wide Community Center
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 8, 2026 – The Gogebic Range Health Foundation (GRHF) is exploring the potential for a multi-location, collaboratively programmed community center to expand access to sports, recreation, health, wellness, and social programming across Gogebic County. The project would leverage existing facilities through shared programming, staffing, transportation, and funding. While no decisions have been made on construction, location, or operations, the initiative is focused on learning from the community to guide future strategies.
Over the past several months, GRHF’s Community Center Planning Team (CCPT) has conducted 10–12 focus groups with residents to better understand needs, service gaps, and barriers to access. “This project is incredibly exciting and energizing,” said Robert Brown, media contact for the CCPT. “The passion and dedication throughout the group is inspiring. The steering committee is actively working through challenges unique to Gogebic County, such as transportation and accessibility, to ensure any future plan serves all residents and is collaborative.”
The CCPT steering committee includes leaders from local government, education, healthcare, and community organizations, including Robert Brown, Yvonne Clark, Megan Hagen, Tom Bergman, Noah Hofstede, Klaus Kutschke, Yolanda Lozano, Suzanne Toth, Ashley Tarro, Lynne Wiercinski, Kassi Huotari, and Will Andresen.
This project, funded by a Rural Readiness Grant through the Michigan Office of Rural Prosperity, reflects GRHF’s commitment to engaging the community and exploring innovative approaches to meet the unique needs of the Gogebic Range.
GRHF is also seeking additional input from the general public. Community members are encouraged to complete a brief survey at gogebicrangehf.org/survey or by scanning the QR code. Paper copies of the survey are available at the Ironwood Carnegie Library and the Watersmeet Township Building during regular business hours.
If you are unable to access either location or need assistance completing the survey, please email info@gogebicrangehf.org or call 906-364-7527 to coordinate accommodations.
For more information, contact:
Robert Brown, CCPT Media Representative
Email: citymanager@cityofwakefieldmi.gov
About the Gogebic Range Health Foundation
The Gogebic Range Health Foundation serves to advance community health throughout the Gogebic Range, including Iron County, WI and Gogebic County, MI, and to establish the Gogebic Range as a fun and healthy place to live.