A “Pawsome” Example of Community Investment at Wahlfield Dog Park
I was in awe watching nearly 200 dogs, all remarkably well behaved, gather with their people for the grand opening of the new Wahlfield Dog Park.
My boys and I brought Walt & Nghia’s dog, Hope, and my sister and her children joined us as well. It was such a fun family outing and a wonderful opportunity to see another meaningful investment in our West Michigan community.
The new 10 acre dog park includes separate areas for large and small dogs, walking trails, an agility area, and a swimming pond with a dock. There is also a convenient dog washing station, which is a pretty brilliant feature after a muddy afternoon of running and swimming.
The event itself was thoughtfully planned, with bandanas and Kent County Parks balls for the first 150 dogs, treats for the first 200, a photo station, and activities for families. Christina Anthony and the Kent County team always do such a lovely job organizing community events, and this was no exception.
We also heard from local and county leaders about how the park came to be, including the Wahlfield family’s continued generosity and investment in the property.
As a third generation leader at Swift Printing, I especially appreciate seeing projects that bring generations of a family together around a shared commitment to community. It was really special to see the Wahlfield family’s fourth generation there celebrating the park, just as my own children are growing up around Swift Printing and learning what it means to carry forward a family legacy.
Strong communities are rarely built by one person or one organization. They are built when families, businesses, local government, donors, contractors, and community organizations contribute their time, talents, resources, and expertise toward a shared vision.
That is something we understand at Swift Printing. For generations, our family and team have had the privilege of helping local businesses, nonprofits, municipalities, and community groups bring their ideas to life through print. Whether it is an event sign, donor campaign, map, invitation, brochure, or informational mailer, printed materials often help connect people to the projects and places that make West Michigan special.
You’ve got to love strong public private partnerships, and seeing generations of one family continue to give back is not unique in West Michigan. It is the standard. We are incredibly fortunate to live and work in a community filled with so much generosity.
Congratulations to everyone who helped make Wahlfield Dog Park a reality. It is a beautiful space for dogs, families, and neighbors to enjoy for years to come.
