Organized by FOWP, a three-day Chainsaw Art in the Park event in 2024 and a special one-day Encore! event in 2025 brought 12 new white pine sculptures to McCormick Park. These two events were supported by over 30 sponsors and 50 volunteers, and featured live chainsaw carving, art vendors, food trucks, a Little Lumberjacks kid’s activity area, a beverage tent, and live music. 

FOWP secured a Michigan Economic Development Corporation grant through its Public Spaces Community Places program to raise more than $63,000 to complete the Volunteer Community Park’s master plan. A picnic shelter, tables and benches, trees, new entrance and sign were added in 2022 and 2023.

FOWP organized a three-day Community Build for the Volunteers Community Park play structure, where 70 volunteers worked together to put it all together including structure assembly, concrete work, and landscaping.

To save the beautiful wooden play structure from being torn down, FOWP raised over $20,000 to fund repairs. In addition, we organized volunteers to dedicate over 400 hours to upgrade this 1997 structure to ensure many years of future community enjoyment.

We continue to advocate for an organize support for Williamston area parks by working with the Williamston Area Beautification Fund, City of Williamston, Williamston Rotary, Williamston Scouts, and Williamston Kiwanis Club on projects throughout the year.

FOWP is a community partner that participates in community events throughout the year. You’ll find our board members and volunteers at the Red Cedar Jubilee for our annual Euchre tournament fundraiser, the Williamston Elementary Ice Cream Social hosting a balloon table, as well as at National Night Out and other events taking place in our beautiful Williamston parks.