Copper Shores is accepting concept submissions for recreation and facility projects which promote physical activity and community engagement. The deadline for the submissions is Aug. 22. (Ben Garbacz/Daily Mining Gazette)

HANCOCK — Copper Shores’ submission deadline for recreational project concepts and grant opportunities is fast approaching. Concept submissions are due on Aug. 22 for current or future projects which promote community engagement, recreation and personal wellness.

Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations, public education institutions and local units of government.

The submissions are not grant applications, but rather basic overviews of project ideas. They need to have an emphasis on garnering activity and encouraging a healthy lifestyle. Copper Shores Director of Marketing and Donor Relations Michael Babcock said Copper Shores sees expanding recreational activities as an important part of a healthy lifestyle.

“We’re trying to help the Copper Country be the healthiest community it possibly can be,” he said, “and a big part of that is having recreational opportunities available for residents in all four counties we serve.”

Babcock added every year when the concept submissions are sent, Copper Shores is hoping to see improvements made so more of the community has opportunities to go out and make use of them. Some examples he provided which became reality include trail work with the Copper Harbor Trails Club and Hancock Trails Club, along with improving accessibility at Ontonagon Village Beach.

Babcock said submissions however do not need to be exclusively outdoors, as indoor recreation during the winter can still be active.

“It could really be anything that’s going to help people in our community get out and be more physically active,” he said.

Babcock emphasized another aspect Copper Shores considers associated with the concept submission, making sure accessibility is considered if given the opportunity.

“If something is accessible to a broader range of people, we’re going to be more likely interested in the project,” he said.

Concept submissions should be two pages or less and lay out the overview of the project. The submissions should include estimated budget numbers, if available, and show details on how the project will improve opportunities for physical activity.

Submissions will be reviewed by Copper Shores’ Grant Committee, will determine which concepts will be selected, and then discuss how to turn the plans into reality.

While Copper Shores provides grants, the selected applicants will be made aware of other resources.

“They (applicants) might not realize that there’s a DNR grant that could also be used for this,” Babcock said. “Maybe we’ll work together so that we’re providing matching funds that would go with the DNR grant or some other opportunity like that. Right now these concept papers are really to help people and us, to help our partners and us get a better understanding of what potential projects are out there, and then going from there to make a plan together.”

Submissions are due by 5 p.m. on Aug. 22. They can be emailed to grants@coppershores.org.