BAY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LEADERSHIP BAY COUNTY CLASS OF 2026 ANNOUNCES CLASS PROJECT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Annabelle Schweiger, Marketing and Communications Manager

Annabelle@baycityarea.com

989.893.4567

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – November 6, 2025

BAY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LEADERSHIP BAY COUNTY CLASS OF 2026 ANNOUNCES CLASS PROJECT

BAY CITY, MI – The Bay Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation Leadership Bay County Class of 2026 has selected its community impact project: expanding Wenonah Park to include a safe, fenced, and accessible playground specifically designed for infants and toddlers ages 0 - 3. Developed in partnership with the United Way of Bay County, the project will support the United Way’s forthcoming downtown childcare center by providing a short, walkable outdoor play space for enrolled children while also serving families across Bay County and visitors to Downtown Bay City.

The class chose the project for its broad community benefit, sustainability plan, and alignment with a critical local need. By expanding the existing Wenonah Park play area and adding secure fencing, the project will enhance safety and accessibility for the youngest children, including those with disabilities. The United Way of Bay County will utilize the space for daily outdoor play for future childcare center attendees while keeping the park fully open to the public.



“Leadership Bay County shines when our class identifies a real community need and rallies partners to meet it. This infant and toddler playground will make Downtown Bay City more welcoming for families, strengthen our childcare ecosystem with United Way, and create a safer, more accessible space for our youngest residents. We’re proud to support the Class of 2026 as they turn a great idea into a lasting community asset,” said Magen Samyn, President & CEO of the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce.

The class aims to fundraise $30,000 to cover equipment, fencing, and site needs such as mulch and landscaping, with the expected project completion date in summer 2026.

Chamber members and community partners can support the effort by submitting bids for fencing, construction, and landscaping, donating items or experiences for the silent auction to take place at the Chamber's Annual Meeting on March 19, promoting the campaign, and joining the groundbreaking and ribbon cutting celebrations. Long term sustainability will be supported through the City of Bay City’s maintenance efforts in conjunction with Play City and inclusion in United Way’s annual Day of Caring stewardship activities at Wenonah Park.

Leadership Bay County is a program of the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce that engages emerging and established leaders in hands-on learning and projects designed to enhance quality of life and strengthen the region.



To follow along or donate to the cause, please follow the Leadership Bay County Facebook page.

About The Bay Area Chamber of Commerce

Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1882, is a private, non-profit business organization with nearly 800 members that provides programs to assist local businesses grow and prosper. The Bay Area Chamber of Commerce joins area businesses and the community for the economic growth and well-being of the entire Bay Area.