Why is this Capital Campaign needed at this time and how will the funds be used?
For years, our community members and shelter guests have asked us to help them by making more resources available and by providing an affordable, high-quality Preschool and Daycare. In February 2021, the City of Muskegon gifted MRM a 1.48-acre parcel. This gift and funds raised will allow us to build a 16,000 square foot multi-purpose facility to help our community RISE UP TOGETHER. Our goal is to help our guests avoid homelessness and for them to finally break the cycle of poverty.
What types of resources will be available at the Community Resource Center?
The Community Resource Center will have small offices and three large classrooms for over 20 community partners such as Read Muskegon, Michigan State University Extension, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to reserve and render their services. The expansion does not duplicate services and it will create a location where services can be consolidated to serve the homeless and ALICE population. Some services include tutoring and GED completion, basic financial classes, cooking classes, counseling, job recruitment and placement. Our community will work with MRM Case Managers to help them develop a custom road map to success. In addition, the facility will serve as a cooling and warming center and will serve free lunch.
Why will there be a Preschool and Daycare?
Many of the single parents who come to our shelter doors and families who use our weekly community services, have full-time jobs, but can’t find affordable daycare. Our facility will give 60 children access to safe, affordable, high-quality education. In addition, we will have space open for the ALICE population not staying in our shelter. This service will enable many families to keep their employment, retain safe housing, while helping their children keep up with their peers.
How much will this cost and how was the decision made?
We project that $5 million, raised over the next three years, will enable us to successfully complete the expansion. Based on a Pre-Campaign Feasibility Study conducted by The Timothy Group in 2020, with a strategic selection of our partners in the community, we found we not only had community support behind the project, but we also had the financial backing to make the vision a possibility. The funding plan includes $3,750,000 to cover building and material costs for the new multi-purpose facility, $750,000 for the new administration building which MRM purchased in September 2021, and $500,000 for three years of sustainability funds.
What is the timeline for the campaign and construction?
The capital campaign is designed to run for 18 months, with pledges sought over a period of three years. MRM will raise 75% of the financial goal during the quiet phase of the campaign, which will end in the latter part of January 2022. Once the benchmark is reached, we will enter the public phase to collect the remaining 25%.
Who all is being asked to participate in the RISE UP TOGETHER Campaign?
The RISE UP TOGETHER capital campaign is uniting current and new friends, neighbors, donors, church and community groups, businesses and foundations in a very important effort to better serve West Michigan. It is a community-wide problem we are addressing, and therefore we will all need to work together, doing our part. We are asking everyone who shares our vision to participate in some way.
Are you seeking one-time gifts or multi-year pledges?
The simple answer is both. We realize that for many, a one-time donation works best. But for others, being able to spread their donation over three years (36 months) is a better scenario and may allow them to maximize their giving. The campaign is appreciative of whatever you can give, whether one-time, monthly or yearly.
If I can't give now, can I still consider a gift later?
Yes, this is a three-year capital campaign. If at any time you are able and inclined to support the RISE UP TOGETHER capital campaign, it will be appreciated.
Are we allowed to designate where our donation is used?
Generally speaking, we ask contributions be unrestricted so that MRM can finish the project in the priority determined. However, if you have a strong sense of allegiance to one project over another, you may certainly designate it, and the board of MRM will see that it is used according to your wishes.
Will there be naming or memorial opportunities available for interested donors?
Different options for donor recognition are being considered with more information to come. For specific questions or ideas, please contact the MRM team.
How can I ask others to help?
Many hands make light work, and there is much to do. We invite you to partner with us and encourage your friends to PRAY that Muskegon Rescue Mission will continue to make an impact for eternity. GIVE a gift, over and above your current giving to Muskegon Rescue Mission. ENCOURAGE your friends and family to support. REMEMBER Muskegon Rescue Mission in your estate plans.
