Dear Franklin UMC members and friends,
In February of 2024, we launched the “Defining Our Generation: Phase II” Capital Campaign with the hopes of raising $300,000 in gifts and pledges to pay for renovations to the sanctuary, restore the exterior of the building, update the HVAC system, and increase the church’s endowment. I want to give you a quick update sharing our 2024 accomplishments and the plans we’re making for 2025.
To date, the campaign has $264,580 pledged and received $27,648.48 in non-pledged gifts. Total receipts (through Sunday, January 5) are $136,704.96.
We have completed roughly half of the Phase II projects:
- Organ Protection (partial disassembly, wrapping, reassembly, tuning and repair)
- Repair of Sanctuary Ceiling (including painting of sanctuary walls and trim)
- Increase Endowment
We are working through the process of applying for a grant which will, we hope, fully fund the exterior restoration of the facility.
In August of 2024, we entered into a long-term agreement with Aprende Spanish Immersion. This agreement will enable us to accomplish Phase III renovations. We plan to add onto the facility so that our main-level and basement are fully accessible per the standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We are looking to create a new main-level office and classroom. We intend to renovate the basement to include two new accessible bathrooms and classrooms that meet standards set by the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) guidelines. A bid walk-through happened this week. It was an opportunity for contractors to meet the architect and walk the facility to better understand the project. Bids are due by the end of January. Early in February, we hope to call a congregational meeting to give the final approval on design, contractor, and financing. We hope to break ground this spring and finish construction by the fall of 2025.
It is amazing to see God work through the outpouring of support from church and community members alike. This is a defining moment, a demonstration of our faith and commitment. We have accomplished a lot. We are rising to the challenge of our day. Thanks be to God!
To learn more about the “Defining Our Generation” Capital Campaign, I encourage to check out the summary document below. If you’d like to make a contribution or pledge to the campaign, click the buttons below.
Thank you for all that you do to support and strengthen the Franklin United Methodist Church. Thank you for all you will do as we continue to define our generation.
Peace.
Pastor Jacob