An enormous jewel sits in the middle of the Detroit River covering 982 acres of land that is protected by a special security force – the Belle Isle Women’s Committee.

Since organizing in December 2004, the Belle Isle Women’s Committee has been working diligently to restore Belle Isle to its gem-like luster.

“Belle Isle is a beautiful park that just needs tender loving care,” said Sarah Earley, Committee president and founder. “When I first visited the park about 13 years ago, I saw buildings with peeling paint, broken windows and shingles falling off roofs. It needed a lot of work. When I researched how other cities were bringing their parks back, I thought why can’t we do it here?”

Several of Earley’s friends shared that love for Belle Isle, resulting in them inviting 100 women for lunch to pitch their idea.

Today, over 200 women are members of the Committee, raising $2 million for park renovations that include improvements being made to the Sunset Point area, sidewalks, seating and public restrooms.

The Committee’s signature fundraiser, 4th annual Polish the Jewel Legacy Luncheon, which was held May 21 and sponsored by Comerica Bank, grossed $325,000. Proceeds will be used to complete current projects and to spruce up other problem areas such as the horse stables.

“Comerica Bank has been the lead sponsor for the last four years,” said Earley. “They’ve been very supportive and have some employees serving on our board.”

Belle Isle’s historical value dates back to the 18th century, when French colonists settled on it and named it Ilea aux Cochons (Hog Island). General Alexander Macomb, Jr., a commanding officer in the U.S. Army who won acclaim during the War of 1812, built his estate on the island. In 1845, the island was given its current name.

The City of Detroit’s Parks and Recreation Department currently manages Belle Isle, but limited funding hinders proper maintenance.

“The City of Detroit looks at us as great partners in raising funds,” said Earley. “We’re trying to provide money for projects that they don’t have. As we complete one project, we’ll move on to the next. The public can help us by sending money. We are going to need funds to support the restoration of buildings and to move forward.”

As families visit the jewel-like island, they will find are other treasures scattered about, including the Detroit Yacht Club, James Scott Memorial Fountain, Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, Dossin Great Lakes Museum, Belle Isle Casino, Nancy Peace Brown Carillion clock, Edmund Fitzgerald anchor, SS William Clay Ford Pilot House and statues of historic figures.

Its beach, botanical gardens, racquetball and tennis courts, giant slide and picnic grounds have brought generations of families together over the years for inexpensive fun and recreation.

“Belle Isle is so special to me, as far as providing fond childhood memories,” said LaCynthia Murray, Comerica Corporate Compliance and Public Affairs administrative assistant and a member of the Women’s Committee. “It’s important to maintain the beauty of the island so that our children will have something to cherish and pass on. Belle Isle is one of those special places that we don’t want to see lose value.”

For additional information on the Belle Isle Women’s Committee, visit www.biwcinc.org or call (248) 433-3560.