The New Balance Foundation awarded a $500,000 gift to the Western Mountains Foundation for its Maine Huts and Trails program. This gift will make the New Balance Foundation the sponsor of the first hut, planned for construction in 2007 in Carrabassett Valley.
“Western Mountains Foundation is absolutely thrilled about this display of
leadership and generosity by the New Balance Foundation. Their commitment
to sustainable economic development as well as providing healthy recreation
outlets in Maine is very evident through this gift. It's gratifying that a
company with such a long history in Maine is making a significant
contribution to Maine's future,” says Bob Peixotto, Chairman, Western
Mountains Foundation.
Upon completion, Maine Huts & Trails will consist of a 180-mile recreation
corridor from Bethel to Moosehead Lake, with up to 12 huts with each
designed to accommodate up to 40 guests.
“We are happy to promote outdoor health and fitness for Maine residents and
visitors through the Maine Huts and Trails initiative,” says Anne Davis,
Vice Chairman of New Balance. “The Foundation looks forward to a future of
programs aimed at providing positive, healthy experiences for kids while
utilizing the new trail system.”
New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. has three Maine manufacturing facilities in
Norway, Norridgewock and Skowhegan and currently employs more than 900
Maine associates.
“This gift from the New Balance Foundation will help us as we work to
accomplish our Phase I goals of building thirty-six miles of trails between
Carrabassett Valley and The Forks, building the first three huts, securing
the northern half of our proposed corridor, and raising $4.5M,” says Dave
Herring, Executive Director. “We are grateful for this generous gift and
excited about working with the New Balance Foundation to help make Maine
Huts and Trails a reality. Their gift brings our Phase I fund-raising
total to nearly $4M.”
