Community Foundation Grant Helps Create “A Place to Gather” in Glen Alpine
The Burke River Trail Association is proud to recognize the Community Foundation of Burke County (CFBC) for its generous support of the new Glen Alpine Downtown Park through a grant titled “A Place to Gather: Creating Community in Glen Alpine.” This $10,000 funding provided the crucial final piece needed to complete the park’s new 24×40 foot picnic shelter — transforming an empty downtown lot into a welcoming, fully usable community gathering space.
This project demonstrates exactly what CFBC does best — investing in local efforts that strengthen connection, community pride, and long-term impact. For Glen Alpine, one of Burke County’s smallest towns, the Foundation’s support meant more than bricks and mortar. It signaled that others believe in the town’s potential and the volunteers working hard to bring energy back downtown. The park has quickly become a gathering place for residents, civic groups, and visitors exploring the future Burke River Trail corridor — a visible sign of hope and momentum in a community ready to grow.
The Burke River Trail Association and the Town of Glen Alpine are deeply grateful to CFBC for helping make this project possible. Their investment affirms the power of collaboration between local leadership, residents, and regional philanthropy. With the picnic shelter now complete, this park is just the beginning — the first phase of a long-term vision that could one day include a stage, art installations, and a storybook trail. Thanks to CFBC, Glen Alpine now has a heart — and a place to gather.
