Community Engagement
This spring, we had many opportunities to kick off the trail season in the communities where people live, work and recreate along the Border to Border Trail! With our eye on the summer, we are recruiting volunteers for our annual Oberun Beer garden!
Join the Beer team! Volunteers needed for the Oberun Beer Garden this July!
HWPI returns as a charity partner of this amazing summer event, and this means that you can support the Border to Border Trail AND get some sweet summer miles in before joining us in the Bell’s Beer Garden.
So, grab some friends, mark your calendar, and get ready to celebrate summer with us on July 19th! We can’t think of a better way to celebrate than a 5K run or walk to a beer garden serving up cold Oberon!
Don’t miss out on the fun. If you are up for the run, register for the 5k at https://runoberun5k.com and take $5 off with code OBERHWPI
If you are interested in volunteering in the Beer Garden, sign up at https://tinyurl.com/OberunVolunteer2024
Growing Hope Earth Day
On Saturday, April 20, 2024, HWPI visited the Farmers MarketPlace in Ypsilanti at Growing Hope’s Earth Day Fest: One Community | One Planet. This vibrant, free event welcomed the community to engage in a variety of eco-friendly activities and workshops designed to promote environmental stewardship.
Market visitors had the opportunity to attend a composting workshop, exchange seeds, and participate in a collaborative community project. The festival also showcased the impactful work of local environmental organizations.
We were excited to spend time in the Ypsilanti community talking about the Border to Border Trail, sharing resources and greener ways to use the trail to access goods and services within the city.
RF Events Trail Marathon Beer Garden
On Saturday, April 27th, 900 trail runners gathered at the Pinckney Recreation Area for the 38th running of the RF Events Trail Weekend. With perfect “Michigan” weather and a sell-out crowd, the event was an amazing success.
The Erratic Ale Beer Garden was hosted by HWPI with all proceeds benefiting the Border to Border Trail. Fifteen seasoned beer garden volunteers supported the event through beer sales, at the information tent, and serving beer to the runners.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to RF Events for their continued support of the Border to Border Trail. Cheers to the B2B Trail!
Jiffy Wellness at Chelsea Milling Company
This May, we had the pleasure of visiting the Chelsea Milling Company in Chelsea, well-known for producing the beloved “JIFFY” corn muffin mix that has been a staple in our kitchens for years. During our visit, we engaged with over one-third of the company’s staff to discuss the benefits of outdoor activities and inform them about accessing the B2B Trail near their place of employment and beyond.
It was inspiring to learn that outdoor recreation is a significant priority for Jiffy’s crew. Their enthusiasm for spending time outdoors highlights a growing recognition of the importance of physical activity and nature in fostering well-being and community spirit.
Bike To Wherever Day
On May 15th, the City of Ann Arbor and its partners hosted Bike to Wherever Day, featuring a network of pop-up commuter stations. Local businesses and organizations supported cyclists with free food, drinks, and games.
Did we see you at the B2B Trail station on Liberty Street?
Huron River Day
At the 2024 Huron River Day at Island Park in Ann Arbor, HWPI outreach volunteer Jarrod Sandel engaged participants in discussions about the Border to Border Trail.
The City of Ann Arbor hosted the event, inviting the community to enjoy the Huron River through free, family-friendly activities.
As a partner of Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation, HWPI has the opportunity to work alongside their amazing staff to promote the B2B Trail. Jarrod collaborated with WCPARC’s new Communications Specialist, Kyle Jasper, during the event. It was a great day to spend by the river!
Let’s Get Courteous, Travelers!
As we embark on a fun summer of outdoor adventures, let’s take a moment to celebrate the importance of trail etiquette in preserving the beauty and harmony of our natural spaces. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a mountain biker, or a casual walker, practicing good trail etiquette is not just about being courteous; it’s about contributing to the greater good of our community and environment!
By adhering to simple guidelines like traveling on the right-hand side and properly disposing of waste, we ensure the safety and enjoyment of all trail users and protect the delicate ecosystems surrounding us. Each step we take with mindfulness and respect leaves a positive impact that resonates far beyond our individual experiences. Let’s do this!
