Wisconsin Public Service Provides Financial Support to Marathon City 2020 LTD’s The Power of Communi

Wisconsin Public Service has contributed $1,000 to the Marathon City 2020 LTD’s The Power of Community Campaign benefiting the Heritage Center and building project.

In 2017, Marathon City 2020 LTD applied for a grant from WPS through their Downtown Revitalization Program. The WPS believes in transforming downtowns into vibrant neighborhoods by supporting local revitalization initiatives. Funding priority is given to initiatives that provide significant benefit to and are judged effective by the community, with a focus on helping the downtown district grow.

Marathon City 2020 was eligible for financial assistance through the WPS program because the Village of Marathon is a state-designated Main Street Program participant. The WPS funds have been allocated for The Power of Community Campaign which includes Heritage Center repairs, a Heritage Center sign, and a new park outside the center.

Kelly Zagrzebski, WPS Community Relations Leader, presented Marathon City 2020 with the $1,000 check in December 2017.

“We are glad to support Marathon City 2020’s The Power of Community Campaign (because) a strong downtown area is vital to helping a community grow and flourish,” Zagrzebski said. “We believe our grant will not only help with the transformation of the Heritage Center property, but also will lead to additional investment in the Marathon community.”

The contribution from WPS supports Marathon City 2020’s efforts to raise funds for The Power of Community Campaign. Marathon City 2020 plans to transform the worn-out parking lot and abandoned bank drive-thru on the Heritage Center property into an environmentally friendly and inviting greenspace. This “pocket park” will feature a covered stage, raised planting beds with built-in seating, a transitional area for additional seating or entertainment, bike racks and more so it can serve as a multifunctional place for education, relaxation, entertainment, and cultural attractions. Additionally, they plan to correct issues with the Heritage Center's front cornice and install a new visually appealing sign.

“The Marathon City 2020 board is extremely grateful to WPS for selecting us as a recipient of this grant because it will directly support ‘The Power of Community’ fundraising campaign,” said Edee Zuleger, president of Marathon City 2020 Ltd.

Zuleger encourages community members to donate online and show their spirit for Power of Community Campaign.

The Power of Community Campaign kicked off on October 26, 2017, and will continue throughout 2018. The organization’s goal is to secure necessary funds and begin construction in 2018, with anticipated completion by late summer so a grand opening can be scheduled by Labor Day weekend 2018 during the annual Fun Days community-wide event.

Contributions to Marathon City 2020 Ltd. (TIN: 47-5638829) are tax deductible as charitable nonprofit contributions under code section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. To donate online, visit their website at www.marathoncity2020.com. Donations can also be payable to the Marathon City 2020 and mailed to: Marathon City 2020 Ltd., PO Box 423, Marathon, WI 54448.