The Amherstburg Community Foundation (ACF) continued its mission of making Amherstburg the best small town in Ontario throughout 2024, focusing on projects that enhance our community’s quality of life, environment, and inclusiveness.
This year, ACF proudly supported several transformative community projects.
A significant initiative was our partnership with Windsor Essex Bike Community (WEBC) for Phase 2 of the Libro Centre trails project.
This expansion added 3-4 km of intermediate-level mountain bike trails, complementing the existing beginner trails and creating new opportunities for skill development and outdoor recreation.
The Foundation also supported the Amherstburg Pickleball Association’s “Pickleball for All” initiative, which promotes inclusive health and wellness through certified coaching clinics, tournaments, and equipment provision.
This multi-generational program exemplifies our commitment to accessible community recreation.
Other notable projects included supporting Bryerswood Youth Camp’s facility improvements and the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship’s storage facility enhancement, both vital to serving our community’s diverse needs.
Looking ahead to 2025, ACF will launch a comprehensive community survey in February to better understand local needs and priorities.
The Foundation will also open two grant application periods, providing more opportunities for community organizations to receive funding support.
A key project already confirmed for 2025 is WEBC’s Phase 3 trail development, which will create an additional three-kilometre XC cross-country trail loop, making it the largest sanctioned trail network in Essex County.
Under the leadership of board president Paul McAllister and a dedicated team of local leaders, ACF continues to evolve its grant-making process to better serve community needs. The Foundation maintains its focus on capital projects and programming initiatives that enhance Amherstburg’s livability and community spirit.
“We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished in 2024, but even more excited about the opportunities ahead,” says McAllister. “Our goal remains simple: to help make Amherstburg an even better place to live and visit through strategic community investment.”
Organizations interested in applying for 2025 grants and community members who want to share their ideas on making Amherstburg an even better place to live and visit can visit www.amherstburgfoundation.org for more information.
—Submitted by ACF president Paul McAllister
Community Group 2024 recap - Amherstburg Community Foundation
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