Fundraiser for Bill Gibbons Memorial Forest
Co Founder of GOALS Adventure Racing Association -the late Dr. Bill Gibbons, dedicated his entire life to serving others, helping the community, and increasing outdoor experiential opportunities. GOALS has always held a strong commitment to the community, and that commitment continues to this day.
Unfortunately, Bill passed away in February 2020 , leaving this Earth too soon. He left behind a legacy of others before self, the importance of family and friendships, the determination to try anything no matter how hard it might be, and of course his love of nature and the outdoors
As a tribute to Bill, and our commitment to the environment, we are raising funds to create 2 memorial forests for future generations to enjoy.
The first is a small plot of land by the banks of the river in Hibernia County Park. This park holds a lot of fun memories, as we have hosted many of our adventure races there. The banks of the river are eroding at a concerning rate, and the planting of the trees will help support and reinforce the area. It will provide additional habitat for wildlife, help with carbon reduction, and serve as a location where anyone can go to enjoy the woods created for Bill with love. An educational plaque will be placed in the area providing environmental information and commemorating the area in honor of Dr. Gibbons.
The second planting is expected to take place in the fall of 2022 - it is a larger scale planting of about 4 acres at Nottingham County Park. This area was decimated a few years ago due to a Southern Beetle infestation that wiped out all of the pitch pines. The goal is to replant that area with mixed hardwoods that would provide a small camping area, and significantly improve the watershed quality, as it sits above McPherson Lake. This will also serve as a location where anyone can go to enjoy the woods created for Bill with love. An educational plaque will be placed in the area providing environmental information and commemorating the area in honor of Bill.
Both plantings are in coordination with Chester County Parks and Preservation, Chester County Conservation District, and Penn State Extension Master Watershed Steward volunteers.
Our goal is to raise $5,500 to support both projects. Donations will be made to GOALS, earmarked for this fundraising project. 100% of funds raised (minus GoFundMe fees) will be put toward the forest building.
This is a wonderful way to help the community, help the environment, and pay honor to an amazing person who touched SO many lives.
