Mission
The mission of the Parks Foundation of Kalamazoo County is to assist the County of Kalamazoo by raising funds to be used for development, improvement, maintenance, and promotion of the parks, which are now or hereafter owned and operated by the County of Kalamazoo. The Parks Foundation will also receive and administer funds for the preservation of objects of natural interest for educational and charitable purposes, and for purposes benefiting the public welfare of citizens of Kalamazoo County and Southwest Michigan.
Latest News
Autumn Annual Appeal
We couldn't do what we do without the support of our donors. Thank you to many of you who have already responded to our annual autumn appeal with a gift! We are so appreciative of your support, which helps ensure our community continues to enjoy county parks and...
Get on Board!
The Parks Foundation of Kalamazoo County is looking for new board members willing to serve just a few short hours per month (this includes monthly meetings). If you are passionate about local parks and trails and preserving the beautiful natural resources in our...
Silent Auction Results
The Parks Foundation of Kalamazoo County and Friends of the Kalamazoo River Valley Trailway are so grateful to those who volunteered their time, who donated auction items and who participated in our silent auction last week. You helped us raise over $3,500 towards...
Share your Story!
We love hearing stories from our community members! Please share stories and pictures with us.
Below we feature some of the users and supporters of the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail.
The trail takes you places you cannot see from the road. It takes you into these private spaces of nature where you’re able to experience connection—connection to nature and connection to others. It’s a romantic place for my husband and me—it’s a date for us to load up the bikes and have a picnic lunch packed, and find a really special, out-of-the-way spot. It gives us time to talk and be together. It’s ours, even though we’re sharing it with lots of people.
For our family, the trail is quality family time. We are always thankful for active, engaging family time where we can experience life’s simple pleasures together. No money spent, no screens, no outside stimulus other than the beauty of whatever nature has planned for the day. It provides us with a structured way to take in a natural setting with no concern about getting lost!
For the last 30 years I have had a bike store in Battle Creek, Mi. Trails like the KRVT have a very positive impact on my business, as well as on my personal health and happiness.