Working on 501-c-3 Status
Successes Build as Goals Established

In late 2013, under the leadership of Ben Lomond resident, Jim Williams, a group of supporters of Quail Hollow Ranch County Park decided to create the “Friends of Quail Hollow,” and to seek the support of the Valley Women’s Club. Quail Hollow Park already had a large group of supporters who worked hard to remove invasive plants, build and maintain trails, construct bird habitat and more. County Ranger Lee Summers had an active series of programs and a newsletter for the Park as well. However, severe cuts in County funds to the Parks was having a major impact on Quail Hollow.

Jim (a long-time VWC member), along with Janie Tibbals, Donna Ziel, Nancy Macy, and later Renee Shepherd, realized Quail Hollow’s unique role among County Parks as an extensive nature preserve — and the dire need for financial support to fund needed maintenance and improvements. A new organization could help achieve those goals.

Understanding the importance of supporting the Park, since the VWC had played a significant role in helping it become a County Park rather than a golf resort, the Board wanted to help. In February an MOU was signed, creating an agreement that allowed the Friends to operate as a non-profit organization under the VWC. This has allowed the Friends to create its organizational structure, to begin raising funds, and to begin identifying and taking on projects to support the Park. The Friends is applying for its own 501-c-3 designation, but can make progress in the meantime. The original team members who helped create the Friends are now Board members, with Jim Williams as President of the organization, Janie Tibbals is Secretary/Treasurer.

A  number of successes have been realized to date:

1. in the process of securing alternative entrance to avoid erosion and endangering native plants; massive boulders brought in by Granite Construction to restrict vehicles;
2. two donation boxes made by Ponderosa School students, and established at the Park;
3. a small stream of income initiated due to involvement in the Redwood Mountain Faire and a local grocery outlet as well targeted efforts for the future;
4. a project list established with priorities;
5. strong new communication channels established with County Supervisor and the new Parks director, Jeff Gaffney;
6. preliminary Friends literature being designed and produced;
7. forging ties with current volunteers;
8. website up and soon to be expanded

… and more!

Please join the Friends of Quail Hollow (no cost, just a desire to be involved) and get engaged in the future of this remarkable jewel in the SLV. Email Jim.