Keep our chamber afloat

The Leland Chamber of Commerce is facing an unprecedented challenge that threatens the continuation of the cherished Leland Wine and Food Festival, a 35-year tradition, and our community's primary fundraising event. After a hiatus due to COVID, and subsequent years of adapting to harbor construction constraints by relocating to The Leland Lodge, our hopes to return to the Leland Harbor were dashed by an unexpected refusal from the Harbor Commission to continue to host this event.

Unfortunately, we will not be able to have a Wine Fest in 2024 due to the limited time allowed to pivot to a different location, and the significant demands this would put on our all-volunteer organization. This decision disrupts a long-standing tradition and jeopardizes funding for numerous community activities and beautification projects that have become integral to our town's character and vibrancy.

The Leland Wine and Food Festival is not just a fun event but the backbone of our community's annual funding program. Given that the village of Leland is not incorporated, it does not have its own tax base to provide many basic amenities. The funds raised from Wine Fest are critical for supporting a wide range of activities, including but not limited to: village beautification and flowers, Independence Day fireworks, holiday lights on Main Street, town marketing and promotion, and essential services such as trash removal. The cost of these activities total almost $50,000 a year, and have been paid in the past through proceeds from the Wine Fest and Chamber memberships. These events and services, coordinated and executed by dedicated Chamber members and community volunteers, are vital for fostering community spirit and maintaining our town's appeal.

We find ourselves at a pivotal moment, urgently needing to devise a new strategy to ensure these community initiatives can continue without the festival's traditional revenue stream. The Festival will be back in 2025, but we will not have this significant income flow in 2024. In light of this, we are appealing to the community for support. We need donations and sponsorships to navigate this unexpected setback. Contributions can be made via our website at lelandmi.org, or checks can be made out to Leland Chamber of Commerce and sent to PO Box 741, Leland, MI 49654.

This is a call to action for all who cherish the vibrant community spirit and the Leland Wine and Food Festival tradition. Your support in this challenging time is not just a donation; it's an investment in our town's beauty, unity, and ongoing vitality.