Local Runner Raises Money for Mill Creek MetroParks Trails
Niles resident, Bo Marchionte, had a vision 20 years ago to run every day without missing a day. He ran in the park 90% of the time through all the weather elements logging 10 miles or more on most days. With just 2 weeks to go until his 20 year anniversary date of January 4, 2018, his wife Wendy and longtime friend Tony Perrone wanted to do something special to mark the day. With Perrone’s expertise in fund raising they decided to raise money and make a donation to the Mill Creek MetroParks Foundation in honor of Bo’s love for the trails in Mill Creek. Also, the Primanti Brothers, Niles location, held a fund raising event from January 4 – 7 where a percentage of sales were donated. In just 2 short week’s donations from family, friends and local businesses tallied up to $5,258.91, breaking their original goal of $2,500. On January 18, 2018, Marchionte, along with family and friends, presented a check in the amount of $5,258.91 to serve as the first contribution to the Trail Endowment Fund at Mill Creek MetroParks. “I love the park and running the trails there. I am thrilled the contributions on my behalf will be the kickoff of this endowment”, says Marchionte.
“I am amazed at the long-term effort and dedication brought forth by Bo. We are honored to accept this donation on his behalf. With the MetroParks newly established endowment fund, this donation will aide in the continued enhancement of the MetroParks trail system for the enjoyment of our park visitors,” says Aaron Young, Executive Director of Mill Creek MetroParks. “This is a great example of setting a goal and working hard to make an impact with friends and family supporting you along the way.”
The purpose of the Trail Endowment Fund is to provide for the perpetual maintenance and care of MetroParks trails. Those wishing to contribute to the Trail Endowment Fund can contact Chris Litton, Director of Development at Litton@millcreekmetroparks.org.