Center in the Square has announced “Igniting Dreams, Energizing Promises” – the Campaign for Center in the Square — a volunteer led $9 million capital campaign that will, when combined with $18 million in tax credits that have already been sold, fund the $27 million renovation of Center in the Square.
The campaign has received a $750,000 challenge grant from the Kresge Foundation and a $500,000 pledge from the Steel Dynamics Foundation. Combined with other donations, nearly $8 million has been raised towards Center’s $9 million fundraising goal. The public phase to raise the final $1 million is now officially underway.
“This challenge grant from the Kresge Foundation is a really big deal,” explained Ab Boxley, campaign co-chair. “Center in the Square competed on a national level to win this award, which says a lot about the merits of the project. In order to satisfy the conditions of the grant, we have been challenged as a community to raise the final million by the first of the year.”
“The pacesetting generosity we have also received from Steel Dynamics Foundation is a tremendous example of their continuing support of and belief in our community and this project,” added Bob Lawson, campaign co-chair. “Other likeminded corporations, individuals, foundations, and governments have also been cheerful givers. Just like the effort to renovate the Hotel Roanoke, Center in the Square now needs the backing of everyone who is willing to help,”
“We are extremely grateful to all of our donors, campaign volunteers, and tax credit partners,” commented George B. Cartledge, Jr., CEO of Grand Home Furnishings and Chairman of Center’s Board of Directors. “They have given generously and worked diligently, in challenging times, to help fund this renovation project. As thrilled as we are to be able to see success on the horizon, we hope others will choose to be part of this historic undertaking and help us finish this campaign.”
Beginning now through the end of the year, caring citizens in the region are invited to join the effort by pledging their support or making a contribution.
To receive more information about the project or to make a contribution, contact Valerie McConnell, Campaign Coordinator, at 540-283-9158, or visit Center’s website, at www.centerinthesquare.org.
