Council hears DDA-funded $25,000 donation to Camp Casey; city outlines volunteer and donation drives to aid Hospitality House

City Manager Brown told the Wixom City Council that the Downtown Development Authority’s recent Derby Day event indirectly led to a $25,000 donation to Camp Casey, a nonprofit offering free horseback-riding programs for children with serious illnesses.

"Somebody that participated in their 5K run on Derby Day learned about Camp Casey and subsequently made a $25,000 donation to the organization," Brown said, noting DDA director Laura Clutier had conveyed the thank-you from Camp Casey. Brown also provided the nonprofit’s website, camp-c.org, and thanked the DDA for its role in the connection.

Council members used the reports section to recognize employee work anniversaries and National First Responder Day; these items were presented as routine city updates.

Separately, Council member Gotcho raised concerns about the ongoing federal government shutdown and asked whether the city could support Hospitality House, a local social-service provider, through food drives, donations or coordination. "If we can do it, I'm willing to pitch in if we need help organizing anything," Gotcho said. Deputy Mayor Resnick said he had spoken with Susan Herspammer, who expects an increased need and welcomed monetary or food donations and volunteer help.

A council member speaking through the chair said the DDA had already discussed offering assistance and that Carrie Yoner, the city's senior coordinator, is organizing a donation later this month. The council agreed city staff would check into direct involvement and follow up with council members who had volunteered to help.

No ordinance, budget appropriation or formal motion to allocate city resources to Hospitality House was recorded in the meeting transcript; council directed staff to explore options and report back.

The council approved its consent agenda and adjourned without additional action on these community-support items.