Friends Network

HELPING TOGETHER WITH FRIENDS

Support to Local Non-Profits at Corps Lakes

There are 60 non-profit cooperating associations at lakes managed by USACE that directly contribute volunteer hours, work events, staff visitor centers and campgrounds, and much more. While many of these non-profits are small, they play a big part in helping to manage recreation facilities and fund programming. 

To assist in governance and access to the larger partnership community, the Foundation established two scholarships in 2025 to send representatives from two cooperating associations to the annual Public Lands Alliance Convention held in Las Vegas, NV in Feb. 2025. publiclandsalliance.org)

Nancy Rogers from the Corps Foundation (center) was joined by Representatives from Mark Twain Lake Visitors and Educational Resource Center Committee in Missouri and Friends of Raystown in Pennsylvania attended educational sessions and explored the large trade show for items that can be purchased at their local gift/bookstore for fundraising.

Friends Network

Local cooperating associations, and Friend’s groups play a critical role in helping the Corps provide improved visitor services while strengthening local economies. These non-profit groups involve the community by providing financial support and hundreds of volunteer hours. That’s good for everyone, especially when the alternative may require closing parks and visitor centers due to shrinking budgets and lack of staff.

The Corps Foundation serves as a resource and partner for Friends groups associated with local Corps Lakes by helping to start, grow and improve their operations with coaching and assistance in obtaining funding.

There are over 60 Cooperating Associations, or Friends Groups directly benefiting individual Corps Lakes—maybe there’s one at your favorite lake!