Great Lakes Islands Alliance Launches New Website as Hub for Island Resources and Engagement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 18, 2025

The Great Lakes Islands Alliance (GLIA) is proud to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website, now live at glialliance.org. Developed with generous funding support from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, this dynamic platform serves as a first step in establishing a comprehensive hub of information for island residents, employees, visitors, and anyone curious about the vibrant communities across the Great Lakes islands.

Designed to grow and evolve, the new GLIA website offers an array of resources tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of island living. Over time, it will expand to include in-depth information on island demographics, history, and culture, as well as practical links to island reports and case studies related to topics as varied as environmental stewardship, infrastructure, education, housing, and transportation. The site currently provides easy access to key documentation such as GLIA’s annual reports, strategic plans, and summaries of past Great Lakes Islands Summits—helping constituents stay informed about GLIA’s ongoing work and long-term vision.

Additionally, the site hosts a growing archive of GLIA’s expert webinars. These recorded sessions feature leading voices on island issues and Great Lakes topics. A recent highlight is the April 2025 webinar presented with the International Joint Commission’s Water Quality Board, which explores findings from the IJC’s 2024 public opinion poll on water quality and stewardship in the Great Lakes. The full recording is now available to view on the site.

In a major step forward for community engagement, individuals can now easily join GLIA through a simple online form. Membership is free and open to both island residents and mainlanders who are interested in supporting, participating in, and connecting with island communities throughout the region. The website features a dedicated section for the annual Great Lakes Islands Summit, which will be held this year on Beaver Island in September. All the latest Summit details will be available on the site, with registration officially opening in June.

“This new website reflects GLIA’s commitment to strengthening connections among islanders and increasing awareness of the Great Lakes islands,” said Philip Rice, GLIA Communications Specialist and Mackinac Island resident. “It’s a space to learn, connect, and celebrate the islands’ shared and diverse stories and future.”

GLIA’s collaborative network includes 20 year-round and seasonal islands across the Great Lakes in the U.S. and Canada. GLIA members work together to address common challenges while honoring the unique character of each island. To explore the new site, access resources, or become a member, visit glialliance.org.

Media Contact:
Philip Rice, Communications Specialist
[email protected]