The Friends of the Cresheim Trail (FOCT) Board of Directors is pleased to announce an important leadership transition. Longtime President Brad Maule has resigned that position to become the organization’s first-ever Executive Director. In this new role, Maule will focus on long-term strategic planning, strengthen partnerships, and lead the organization’s day-to-day operations.
“It’s been an honor to serve as Board President these past three years, and I’m excited to continue advocating for the Cresheim Trail in a new capacity,” said Maule. “We have incredible momentum and this will help keep us moving forward.”
Maule’s new role builds on his experience in Northwest Philadelphia, which includes work with Friends of the Wissahickon, Mt. Airy CDC, and Chestnut Hill Conservancy. In fall 2024, West Mt. Airy Neighbors presented him with a Community Champion award for his work on the trail.
John Raisch, a dedicated FOCT board member, has been appointed as Interim Board President while the organization conducts a search for a permanent president. He brings extensive experience in outdoor recreation and youth programming as the founder of Independence Youth Cycling (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit) and President of YJR Outdoors.
“As a longtime board member and advocate for outdoor recreation, alternative transportation and sustainability, I am excited to step into the role of Interim President,” said Raisch. “With the progress we’ve made in recent years and the dedication of our volunteers and supporters, the future of the Cresheim Trail is bright.”
This transition comes at an exciting time for the Cresheim Trail. Recent accomplishments include installing wayfinding trail posts in 2023, opening a “rough draft” of the future rail trail between Germantown & Stenton Avenues in 2024, and continued growth in volunteer service. Just as importantly, in partnership with the City of Philadelphia, FOCT has secured major grants from DVRPC and the Pennsylvania DCNR for the first phase of rail trail.
In addition, FOCT will be hosting its annual fundraiser, Trail to the Future, on April 19, 2025, at the Venetian Club. The event will serve as the formal kickoff to the planning and design for the Germantown–Stenton segment, the first link in the trail’s expansion into Montgomery County.
