The FairWays Foundation holds inaugural summit
The FairWays Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting conservation and stewardship, held its inaugural summit June 21-22 at Firestone Country Club, Akron, Ohio.
With more than 80 in attendance, the event aimed to raise awareness of the foundation’s work. Participants included industry influencers as well as previous and potential grant recipients for educational talks and networking.
Nearly $300,000 worth of funds have been granted to date. The foundation will review and award the 2022 cycle applicants in the coming months when they hope to see the running total hit half a million dollars.
Kimberly Erusha Ph.D., former Director of Education, Greens Section, USGA, served as keynote speaker, followed by a guest panel including:
- Mark Lane, superintendent, The Memphrémagog Golf Club, Quebec
- Joel Nunes, director of golf, Palmares Ocean Living & Golf, Lagos, Portugal
- Greg Lovell, The Fairways Foundation board member, Eastern Midwest territory manager, Aquatrols
- Angelica Carmen, grant recipient and sustainability specialist at Mistwood Golf Club, Romeoville, Ill.
Matt Foster, The FairWays Foundation president, expressed his thanks to all those in attendance and encouraged attendees to spread the word about the foundation, particularly its ability to help fund small and large conservation-based projects for those in their industry.
“We understand making a difference in your community takes tremendous grit from a local champion,” he said. “It might be a green keeper, park manager, or program volunteer. Regardless, without their will, these projects would never move forward. Our message to those individuals out there with a wish for a healthier environment is that The Fairways Foundation can help provide a way to make it happen. If you’re on the fence, just apply. You have nothing to lose.