GRHF and Michigan’s Western Gateway Trail Authority Celebrate Over $25,000 Raised for Trail Maintenance

Pictured (from L to R): Mandy Lake, City of Bessemer Clerk, Treasurer, and Interim City Manager, Mark Movrich, City of Bessemer Council Member and MWGTA Member, Paul Anderson MWGTA Board Chair, and Kassi Huotari, Executive Director of the Gogebic Range Health Foundation in front of the new Iron Belle Trail shed.

Ironwood, Michigan – September 30, 2024 – The Gogebic Range Health Foundation (GRHF) over the last few months served as fiscal sponsor for Michigan’s Western Gateway Trail Authority (MWGTA) for the Iron Belle Trail maintenance fundraiser. Their latest collaborative fundraiser was a tremendous success, raising an impressive $25,680! This achievement has also brought GRHF to a remarkable point—just $4,480 shy of reaching $1 million in community giving since its founding in 2015.

The community’s support was on full display as all 300 raffle tickets, priced at $100 each, sold out, generating $30,000. After awarding 8 cash prizes totaling $10,000 and covering raffle expenses, $20,680 was raised. Thanks to GRHF’s generous $5,000 match, the total reached $25,680. These proceeds will directly fund crucial maintenance and improvements on the much-loved Iron Belle Trail.

“We couldn’t be more excited to assist the MWGTA crew to hit their fundraising goal,” said Kassi Huotari, GRHF Executive Director. “Not only were we able to raise significant funds for trail maintenance, but this achievement also puts GRHF on the verge of reaching $1 million in giving. Selling all 300 tickets speaks volumes about the trail’s importance to our region.”

Proceeds from the raffle will be used to ensure the trail continues to thrive and serve the community for years to come. Planned projects include:

Purchasing a storage shed for maintenance equipment (pictured above at the Iron Belle Bessemer Trailhead)
Surfacing improvements and repairs, such as fixing tree root cracks
Regular mowing, brushing, and grooming of the trail
Supporting long-term maintenance efforts

The Iron Belle Trail is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, residents, and visitors alike, providing a safe and scenic space for recreation, exercise, and relaxation.

“We are incredibly proud of this partnership and the community’s generosity,” added Paul Anderson, MWGTA Board Chair. “This success not only benefits the trail today but ensures its longevity for future generations.”

With GRHF on the brink of its $1 million giving milestone, the organization looks forward to continuing its mission of enhancing the health and wellness of the Gogebic Range community through impactful partnerships and initiatives.

About Gogebic Range Health Foundation: The Gogebic Range Health Foundation is dedicated to improving the health and wellness of the community by supporting various initiatives and projects that encourage active living. Since 2015, GRHF has provided nearly $1 million in funding to support programs and partnerships that enhance quality of life across the Gogebic Range. In the midst of transitioning its mission to meet the community’s needs, GRHF is excitedly positioned to make a big impact.

About Michigan’s Western Gateway Trail Authority: The MWGTA oversees the maintenance and development of the non-motorized trail system in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, ensuring its continued use and enjoyment by the public. MWGTA is focused on providing a safe, accessible, and sustainable trail system that encourages outdoor recreation and promotes community wellness.

Media Contact:

Kassi Huotari
Executive Director, Gogebic Range Health Foundation
906-364-7527
kassi.huotari@gogebicrangehf.org