The Munising Visitors Bureau Gives Back

While tourism dollars fund the organization, the Munising Visitors Bureau makes a point of investing some of those resources back into the community.

"The Munising Visitors Bureau tourism council is committed to giving back to the community with the funds we raise from assessment taxes in a variety of ways. We want to see tourism benefit everyone within the community and to touch their lives in a positive way," stated Cori Ann Cearley, president of MVB.

Recently, the MVB helped Munising Public Schools reach its fundraising goal of $150,000 with a $17,000 donation for a new playground at Mather Elementary. The tourism group also contributed $10,000 to the project last year.

The MVB has also been instrumental in backing the Superior Playland Indoor Playground at the Alger Parks and Recreation building; repaving the tennis courts along Chocolay Street, which both the school district and public uses; Concert in the Park – a weekly event that the MVB has sponsored for years, which was able to expand last year because of increased funding; and getting new boards for the Alger Centennial Ice Arena.

The group often partners with the Alger County Chamber of Commerce/Greater Munising Bay Partnership and Munising Downtown Development Authority to sponsor events such as Pictured Rocks Days and Rekindle the Spirit. They also contribute to the Fourth of July Committee, the organization which manages all holiday festivities in Munising.

“The majority of our projects are focused on children and community spaces for the long-term enjoyment of all of our residents,” Cearley says.

Another area improvement in recent years is the area’s trail system. Since its inception, the MVB has been a crucial ally to the Munising Bay Trail Network and Alger County Snowmobile and ORV Association.

“Their support has enabled MBTN to: pursue grants requiring matched funds, organize events such as the Pictured Rocks Road Race, and hire an experienced trail builder to rough cut the trail utilizing a Kubota U17,” the MBTN website states. “Combining the support of these important partnerships with thousands of volunteer hours has empowered MBTN to continue expanding the trail network they envision for the community.”

Operating as a nonprofit organization beneath Michigan Public Act 59, the MVB's financial backing is derived from a 5% occupancy assessment tax imposed on hotel rooms. These funds are allocated to support promotional materials, events, and other initiatives that contribute to the progress of Munising.