Frequently Asked Questions?
How much will the build-out cost? As we finalize the plans with the builder, we estimate the renovations and new building will cost upwards of 2 million dollars. This includes current material pricing and all building costs. However, we may have to spend more if material costs increase before or during the construction phases.
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When will construction begin? Construction will start once we secure bank funding and agree to all aspects of the plans and the associated costs of the builder.
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What are the new amenities?
Renovated sanctuary:
-The electrical system will be brought up to code,
-The heating and cooling system will be updated
-the lighting will be updated,
-the building will be extended by 20 ft to accommodate a modern stage with ample space for the musicians, praise team/choir, and pulpit.
-The baptism pool will be relocated and there will be two changing rooms with a sink and towelette in each.
-In the sanctuary, new pews will be installed that will create a center aisle. Additionally, the media team will have an area in the rear of the sanctuary for filming.
-At the entrance, a welcome center will be added for visitors.
-The new capacity will allow adequate seating for 400 people
The Main level:
-An elevator
-Women's restroom (8 stalls and 5 sinks)
-Men’s restroom (3 stalls, 2 urinals, and 3 sinks)
-Conference Room
-An office suite consisting of 3 offices
The Lower level:
-Kitchen with a pass-through window and pantry
-Women’s restroom (4 stalls and 2 sinks)
-Men’s restroom (2 stalls, 2 urinals, and 2 sinks)
-4 classroom (collapsible walls that can convert 2 classrooms into a conference space)
-Full basketball court with bleacher seating for 109 people and a storage closet
-Access to the existing Fellowship Hall.
Where will we worship during construction? Initially, we would continue to fellowship in our existing sanctuary while the new space is under construction. Once completed, we could fellowship in the gym while the sanctuary is being renovated. As a community partner with Richmond Public Schools, we should be able to consistently fellowship at Martin Luther King Middle School or another school within the district until the entire project is completed.
Can the church bring in revenue with the new facilities; if so how? We can generate revenue with the gym. Some of our plans include sponsoring basketball games which includes entry fee and refreshments. This is one example as to how the facility will generate additional revenue.
Why are we remaining in this location; why not move? Pastor has expressed in her vision that the church should be where the need is found. At our current location, there is a need in the various communities on the east side of Richmond.
What if I have limited funds to pledge, how can I support the project? In addition to the pledges, we will need to secure a bank loan/mortgage and potential grants to fund the remaining cost of construction. Additionally, we are considering issuing bonds to offset the cost. All tithe payers will continue to assist as we pay off the mortgage.
Can I make a one-time offering? For non-members a one-time offering is acceptable, however, we would like for our members to join us in the Capital Fund Raising campaign where your pledge will be paid over the course of three years. You are welcome to pay off your pledge within this time frame.
Will there be envelopes if I have cash? How do I pay on my pledge? For those paying with cash/check, there will be pledge envelopes. Givelify will be available for those who wish to pay electronically.
What is the minimum amount that I can pledge? We are asking that each member go in prayer and seek God for the amount that you should pledge. God will provide the way for you to pay what he reveals.
Will the amount that I pledge remain confidential? Your pledge will remain confidential unless you choose to make it public during your victory report when it has been paid in full.
How will the new facilities support the community? The new space will lay groundwork for discipleship. Our facility will provide a safe space for the youth in our community. Our goal is to also give our community hope through bringing in professionals to assist with health care and medical screenings, life skills and crime prevention.
How can I disperse my payments? You are encouraged to pay in a manner that best suits your financial situation. We suggest that at least a third of your pledge be paid each year. This amount can be paid down by the end of the year in installments (one lump sum, semi-annually, quarterly, monthly, bi-weekly, weekly).
Can I ask family and friends to donate towards my pledge? Absolutely! God will make provision for us to pay our pledges in a variety of ways. Your way may include family and friends while someone else may use another way.
Can I increase or decrease the amount that I pledge? Once pledge cards have been received, they will be used to determine how much we will need to borrow to fund the construction/renovation costs. While we would welcome increased pledges, decreased pledges would create an unplanned shortage. In the event of either situation, notify the campaign director and trustee chairman so that a new pledge card can be submitted to reflect the adjustment.
How does the bond process work? At this time we do not have enough information on this option to share. When we do, we will conduct a meeting to explain this option to those interested.
How many years do I have to meet my pledge total? Each participant has three years to pay their pledged amount.
Who do I contact if I have questions about my pledge or the build? For pledge questions, you may contact any member of the Trustee Board or the Campaign Director, Juliette Finner. They For questions about the build, you may contact the Trustee Board Chairman Donavon Tucker at dtucker2u@gmail.com
When are pledges due? Executive board 4/6; members 4/21
Can I have a fundraiser to meet my pledge? If a fundraiser is used for the sole purpose of paying your pledge it must first be approved by Pastor Perkins.
When will the ground-breaking start? To be determined.
How long will it take to build the new facilities? Due to the project scope, it should be completed within a year. The builder will provide the actual schedule once all funding has been approved and we sign the contract to begin construction.
How long will it take to renovate the current sanctuary? To be determined. We are unable to answer this question at this time.
Are there any risks in this venture? At this time we are unaware of any risk. We will remain prayerful and trust unwavering that God will continue to guide us throughout this process so that his will can be done in this ministry.
Why did you pick the builders that are being used? The trustee board reviewed several builders before agreeing on Zion Builders. This company only builds churches and came highly recommended. After some reference checking and seeing some of their finished churches in the area, we agreed to contract them to create the plans and for construction when we are ready. They will oversee the entire project from start to finish.
Will the congregation be notified of any new costs? The congregation will be made aware of all aspects of this project. We will meet to discuss each phase of the build and to discuss any new costs or adjustments to the project.
If the plan does not move forward, will the pledges be returned? Yes.
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Can I claim the pledge on my taxes? All contributions to the church are tax deductible.