About Us

Our Mission

The Parks Foundation of Kalamazoo County raises and manages funds to be used for the acquisition, development, improvement, maintenance, and promotion of the Kalamazoo County Parks.

History

The Parks Foundation of Kalamazoo County was formed in 1988 when a small but passionate group of citizens wanted to protect parkland at the former Morris Markin estate and create a recreational destination. Markin Glen County Park was originally the estate of Morris Markin, the founder of Checkers Motor Corporation of Kalamazoo. The group led a fundraising drive that allowed the west side of Markin Glen County Park to open in 1994, after the County acquired the property from the City of Kalamazoo.  This group formed a partnership with the County to develop and protect Markin Glen and all future county park lands in Kalamazoo County.

2025 Board of Directors

Toni Thompson, President

Jeff Carter, Vice President

Steve Grieve, Secretary

Brenda Longman, Treasurer

Paul Banner

Sandy Bliesener

Les Tung