The GClub at Riverwalk Trust
MOTIVATE~PARTICIPATE~ACTIVATE
After successfully chairing the Riverwalk Trust from 2004-2006, Renée Quinn decided to develop a legacy project that would make both a visual and tangible impact on the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s downtown, the Riverwalk Park. By bringing together Riverwalk Trust’s past chairs and Tribute honorees with community leaders and residents, she believed it was possible to tap into years of experience and commitment. “After all, it’s everyone’s responsibility to give back to Fort Lauderdale’s ‘Central Park’ that we call Riverwalk” says Quinn.
In the fall of 2008, Riverwalk Trust announced the launch of their new membership level, The GClub at Riverwalk Trust. Dedicated to the greening of the Riverwalk Park and the creation of a more sustainable, more grounded downtown lifestyle, The GClub will serve as the launch pad for an on-going series of projects.
The inaugural project of the The GClub at Riverwalk Trust is the installation of decorative potted planters throughout the park, spilling over with lush, tropical flowers and trees. A matching grant for $22,500 was secured for the project through the City of Fort Lauderdale’s Business Capital Improvement Program. “The installation of the pots is a way to beautify the Riverwalk and enhance the pedestrian experience of visitors to the park,” said Ginny Miller, Co-Chair of the GClub. Another benefit of the project is serving as a visual cue to the community that there is a vested group caring for the park.
On Saturday, February 13th, 2010, 110 Volunteers including Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jack Seiler, City Commissioner Bobby DuBose, Genia Duncan Ellis and the CVC – Citizen Volunteer Corps, Leadership Broward Class XXVIII and Riverwalk Trust members completed the planting process in record time. Renée and her team were able to raise over $50,000 from GClub members, supporters and companies: The Riverwalk Trust Board of Directors, Bob Dugan and EDSA, Andrew Lester and The Continental Group, Ginny & Tom Miller with Miller Construction, Joe Marotta with Premier Beverage, Renée Quinn with QuinnProQuo, Genia Duncan Ellis with Ellis Consulting, Ken & Terri Ortner, Pat & Jim Demos, Lee Sheffield, Gary & Monica Correll, Bob & Susan Drinon, Terry Stiles, and The Huizenga Foundation.
As part of this program, GClub members will also have an opportunity to “Adopt-A-Pot” along Riverwalk Park. Renée and co-chairs Ginny Miller and Joe Marotta plan to create events for the group that will include membership gatherings, exclusive wine dinners for GClub Trustees and a GClub signature event planned for 2011.
