Marianna Lee – Recognizing Philanthropy: Raising the Rails on PATH400
Livable Buckhead has set in motion a fundraiser making our PATH400 even more secure and robust. PATH400 is a valuable gem connecting people in a sustainable innovative way. Raising the Rails campaign is an opportunity for residents and businesses to contribute to providing maximum safety for anyone using the raised trail over Mountain Way Common. Livable Buckhead is invested in community well-being, contributing $50,000, half of the amount needed once the other half has been donated. The Raising the Rails Series will be recognizing and celebrating philanthropic minded individuals committed to the betterment and safety of our neighborhoods.
On March 29, 2010, Marianna Lee sent out an email that began a long-term commitment to the incorporation of green spaces into urban environments. Even before that email was sent, Marianna had been collaborating with the Brookhaven friend group to convert an unused plot of land into a flourishing green space. In March of 2010, Little Nancy Creek Park garden plants would see the first glimpse of spring with the neighborhood gardeners taking the lead. Once the fundraising and social events were launched, the park became sustainable by local volunteers and neighbors. Little Nancy Creek Park is now an amazing park with a playground, pavilions, an exercise trail, and a community garden. With the success of Nancy Creek, Marianna was asked to join another endeavor working towards converting an abandoned area into what is Mountain Way Common Park. Joining the Board of Mountain Way Common, Marianna worked closely with Livable Buckhead.
City parks and open spaces improve our physical and psychological health, strengthen our communities, and make our cities and neighborhoods more attractive places to live and work. The PATH 400 trail has the remarkable ability to link neighborhoods which unites people. Trail-based greenway systems draw others to areas they would not typically visit, creating tighter community bonds. Marianna chooses to invest in the community by donating her time and financial resources supporting a safe way for people to connect.
Being an environmental steward investing in a resilient future, she recognizes the importance of connecting greenspaces such as Old Ivy Park, Mountain Way Common Park, and Loridans Park. Green spaces should be all about people providing a safe space in a clean environment. Marianna credits Denise Starling and Livable Buckhead for leading the charge for change in the Buckhead Atlanta area. When asked why she chose the Livable Buckhead non-profit organization for her philanthropic efforts, she responded, “Personally, I donate to Livable Buckhead because I believe in their proven history of change. Livable Buckhead has guided and led numerous organizations through governmental red tape, helping blaze a path through countless restraints and constraints to deliver a more walkable city producing fewer emissions and offering citizens a healthier path.” Prioritizing the safety and well-being of everyone using the trails is her utmost concern. Raising the Rails Campaign aligns with her humanitarian initiatives and community philosophies. Marianna believes the elevated bridge at Mountain Way Common will bring a sense of security to those who migrate through the park while the tree canopies will provide stunning views of the city. Marianna’s philanthropic philosophy of large and small contributions adding up over time creating real change contributes to a more sustainable future for all.
“Specifically, I believe all humans wish to leave a legacy behind. By contributing to the development of greenspace, walking trails, and lowering overall emissions by offering options other than a vehicle, it is my goal to contribute to a small effort in bettering my neighborhood, my city, and my part of the world.” ~ Marianna Lee
We recognize your philanthropic support and celebrate your dedication to improving our community. Thank you, Marianna Lee, for all you are doing.
Follow our Raising the Rails Series recognizing and celebrating philanthropic minded individuals committed to the betterment and safety of our neighborhoods. If you want to invest in Raising the Rails, click here.
