The Fitch Mountain Fund will host the Fitch Mountain Forever fundraiser and hike on Sunday, April 22 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Villa Chanticleer in Healdsburg. Fitch Mountain Park and Open Space Preserve, the 173 acres on top of Fitch Mountain, was officially transferred to the City of Healdsburg in November 2017.
To ensure this once-in-a-lifetime environmental project is managed properly forever, Fitch Mountain Fund is seeking support. “We are excited to team up with Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District, LandPaths, the Coastal Conservancy, Fitch Mountain Association, the City of Healdsburg and the Healdsburg community to protect and preserve Fitch Mountain forever. Join us April 22 in raising money to create a long term, sustainable funding source for Fitch Mountain – one of the largest public parks in Northern Sonoma County,” said Josie Gay, who is producing the event for the Fitch Mountain Fund.
The afternoon starts with a country barbeque served by community leaders, local beer and wine, live music, family fun activities and games, as well as a presentation and a live auction led by State Senator Mike McGuire. For those feeling adventurous, the afternoon will wrap up with a guided hike up Fitch Mountain at 2 p.m.
Individual tickets are $25 per person and a family ticket (for 4) is just $40. Kids 12 and under are free. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Events details, tickets and sponsorship information are available online at FitchMountainFund.org or by calling 479-9979.
“Invest in this crown jewel and contribute to the quality of life in Healdsburg by attending or sponsoring this annual event where we will celebrate Fitch Mountain. Our goal is to raise $75,000 by April 22, and we can’t do it without you,” Gay said.
About Fitch Mountain Fund
Members of the Healdsburg community, led by State Senator Mike McGuire formed the Fitch Mountain Fund as part of an effort to create a long term, sustainable funding source to help steward Fitch Mountain into the future. The fund’s goal is to raise $1 million over the next two years to help fund park enhancements and ongoing operations.
The fund will assist as necessary in public investments in trail building, invasive plant removal, wildfire suppression and the development of scenic lookouts. In the future, the focus will be on amenities that enhance the experience on the mountain. The fund will partner with the city of Healdsburg on annual operating expenses, so that Fitch Mountain will always be open and always protected.
To purchase tickets and for additional information, please visit http://www.fitchmountainfund.org/apr-22-fundraiser.
— submitted by Josie Gay
