Capital Campaign
$250,000 CAPITAL CAMPAIGN FOR THE MILLS COMMUNITY HOUSE
THE PROJECT As a 113-year-old building, the Mills is in need of nearly constant updates. In December 2021, our elevator was out of commission for nearly a week before it was restored to service. We made much-needed improvements in 2021,including a roof replacement and building restrooms on the upper level, where most events are held. The new restrooms are sure to be a huge asset moving forward as we host more events and further engage with our community. In 2022, our goal is to fundraise enough to cover the cost of several important building infrastructure projects, including replacement of our 30-year-old hydraulic elevator, creating an ADA-compliant, safer, smoother access to the building (an estimated cost of over $250,000). We also need exterior building work such as replacement of damaged wooden fascia and tuck pointing of deteriorating brick work. 2021, our elevator was out of commission for nearly a week before it was restored to service. We made much-needed improvements in 2021,including a roof replacement and building restrooms on the upper level, where most events are held. The new restrooms are sure to be a huge asset. |
ABOUT THE MILLS
The Mills Community House has beenavailable for community use for over 100years and continues to be a gathering placefor a variety of organizations and events. Today, several organizations use the Mills Community House to present public programs, concerts, theater, and lectures for both adults and children, including
2021 AT A GLANCE
It was a busy year both in and outdoors, for the board and volunteers alike. Throughout the year, we
2022 GOALS AND PLANS
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OUR STORY
The distinctive red brick building, built in 1909 as a dormitory for the Benzonia Academy, became the Mills Community House in 1925. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Mills has been used as a public venue throughout its history: a gymnasium, meeting location for educational and cultural programs, and home to the Benzonia Public Library for nearly 100 years. In 2002, the Mills House was deeded from the Congregational Church of Benzonia to the Mills Community House Association (MCHA), a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization. The board of directors is made up of community supporters who believe in the value of this historic landmark and the potential of our community. OUR HEARTFELT THANKS TO EARLY
MAJOR SUPPORTERS* $10,000+ 100+ Women Who Care Anonymous (2) $5,000-$9,999 Roger and Phoebe Vance Linda Kehr $1,000-$4,999 Martha Garber Thor and Susan Goff Jane Purkis Our mission is to provide
stewardship and promotion of the historic Mills Community House as a venue for events and services that enrich lives. |