$523,175.91 . . .
That figure is proudly displayed on the Community Information sign on Main Street in Lawrence.
The figure is impressive in one way, and disappointing in other ways.
Impressive in the fact that it represents the cash on hand the Lawrence Community Building Committee has raised since the community committed to replacing the American Legion Hall with a newer, larger, facility.
Impressive in the fact that the money has been accumulated with only one "large" donation (a $150,000 donation from an estate controlled by Lyle Kohmetscher). Most has come with smaller donations, but a lot of them.
Disappointing in the fact that the current total is not large enough to begin planning the details of construction.
Disappointing in the fact a new pledges of support are few right now and that some of the original pledges have not been paid even if those are not great.
Disappointing in the fact that some donors have "talked about donations but don't want to pay until construction is started.
Overall . . . the committee related an optimistic attitude for the building commitment. As always, the situation could certainly be better, but considering the COVID pandemic which caused both a decrease in donations and an increase in building costs, all members seemed positive as to the outcome of the effort. A couple of topics reviewed included: • most of the money collected is now invested in CD's earning interest; • A couple of "grant" opportunities were discussed and seemed to be realistic; * A "Fund Raiser" event was discussed and hopefully will be held this Spring; • And maybe a very positive sign: a couple of pledges made long ago have been paid and a payments on others are being made.
The payment of past pledges was an item of discussion. Committee members encouraged the payment of past pledges as it was pointed out that some possible 'grants' would not be possible until a certain percentage of the expected building cost was on hand. The quicker the money is raised, the quicker the building process may begin. The payment of these pledges would be a big help towards that end. (Towards this end, the American Legion agreed to start paying on its $35,000 pledge this winter.)
The figure we started this discussion with ($523,175.91) is about $58,000 larger than a year ago. While happy with a few pledges paid and other donations, members all agreed a strong effort is needed for this community dream.
The group also discussed the sources and possibility of "large" donations from individuals or organization. They urges individuals with ideas, or possible sources to contact the group if they need help.
Reader Comments(0)