10/12 Project Update:
Painting, carpeting and the tech equipment has been installed and kids have started using the Family Room for Wednesday night activities. Just a few more projects remain.

The Board of Directors approved the plan to move and expand the Mission Outpost by moving it to the current Teen Center, and repurposing the current Mission Outpost space into a new Family Ministry area (“Family Room”). Work on each phase of this project would begin only as funds are in hand to complete that phase.

How much will this cost and how will we fundraise?
Our most recent construction cost estimate (August 2011) is $114,175, including just over $78,000 for construction work and another $36,000 needed to upgrade the HVAC system. We have cash on hand and a Foundation grant for current construction phases. We could use the Capital Repair and Replacement Fund established with our capital campaign towards the HVAC upgrades. Ideally we would make limited use of this Capital Fund, as we still have many other capital needs, including a new boiler needed for the CLC.

Why are we making these changes now?
A 32% increase in the people we serve through Mission Outpost, as well as our expanded offering of fresh meat and produce, courtesy of Salvation Army’s relationship with Second Harvest and other contacts such as Costco, Lunds and Byerly’s, requires more square footage for receipt, repackaging and proper storage of perishables. This is a critical first step into our long-term vision of expanded outreach into our community.

Why did we choose to repurpose the Christian Life Center by “flip-flopping” the Teen Center and Mission Outpost?
Moving Mission Outpost to the west side of the building allows easy and safer access to shipments of pallets of food in and out of a parking lot. The existing offices on that side of the building are already wired for computers and phones so intake can be done efficiently and confidentially. The Teen Center/Family Ministry multipurpose space will be relocated to the east side, closer to our other classes and conference rooms. The new configuration gives more functional space to both ministries. There is a savings of at least $50,000 over expanding the Outpost in its existing location.

What’s in it for Family Ministry?
New space configured to their current and future needs for children’s through teens’ large group activities. Our Family Ministry team is finalizing their plans to be complete prior to program launch in the fall. The new Family Room is larger in its new configuration, with brighter space and upgraded technology.

Why can’t we wait until all of the money is in the bank to start the project?
Mission Outpost has been working in tight quarters for several years. The recent addition of large perishable food donations makes for an even tighter workspace. Since serving and engaging people are our priorities, providing the space for continued growth moves us into our mission. Completing Phase II by the end of the summer is important to be ready for Family Ministry programming in the fall. No phase will begin until funding is in place to complete it.

How can we help?
Pray…for the folks who are constructing this new space and its positive results on those we care for in our community. Serve… with Mission Outpost, Family Ministry or the countless other opportunities on or off this campus. Connect…take this opportunity to be informed and share the information with others, share our mission and ministries with others so that their hearts might be moved too. Contribute … your donation may be placed in the offering with “Expansion project” in the memo section of your check, or donate online through our Generosity page on our website.