Sprecher’s Donates to RCS Trailside Park
Sprecher’s Restaurant and Pub began a Non-Profit of the Month program this year to make a difference in the Sheboygan community. Sprecher’s selected RCS Empowers, Inc. to be their non-profit for the month of August. Sprecher’s presented RCS President, Martha VandeLeest with a $950 donation to the RCS Trailside Park. The amount was a portion of their August 15 receipts on “RCS Day” at Sprecher’s.
Pictured Left to Right: Vicki Pfister (RCS Vice President of Adult Services), Laurie Dawson (Sprecher’s Sales and Events Manager), Betsy Alles (Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director), Martha VandeLeest (RCS Empowers Inc. President), Steven J. Schmitt (Sprecher’s Co-owner), Mayor Mike Vandersteen.
“Sprecher’s chose the RCS Trailside Park because it will provide barrier free access for those with mobility concerns,” said Laurie Dawson, Sprecher’s Sales and Events Manager. “The park provides an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors on the public trail without obstacles in accessing a public recreation area.” The walkways, benches and covered picnic tables will be connected directly to the trail, so wheelchairs, scooters, bike carriers with children and those with mobility issues do not have to navigate any uneven terrain. RCS Empowers, Inc. received a grant in July for $32,287 from the Sheboygan County Stewardship Fund. RCS is in the midst of a capital campaign to raise additional funds to reach the $85,000 estimated budget to complete the project.
RCS Empowers Inc. plans to take underutilized RCS land on both sides of the Shoreland 400 Rail Trail (public bike path) and establish an attractive handicap accessible green space. “The RCS Trailside Park will be open to the public, RCS participants and staff,” said RCS President, Martha VandeLeest. “Our vision is for the park to be a welcoming and friendly space where individuals can stop to picnic, socialize or just take a break and enjoy the outdoors.” The park location will expand outdoor activity opportunities for those with mobility concerns in Sheboygan County.
The RCS Trailside Park will have permanently installed benches, tables, planters, waste receptacles, and landscaping. Construction of the RCS Trailside Park is planned to begin in fall of 2017 with completion by summer of 2018. To learn more about this barrier-free community friendly space for the community to enjoy for many years to come or to donate a memorial gift to this exciting project, contact Monica Senkbeil at 920-458-8261.