Legion Field Art Hall Replacement Opportunity

More than 30 people attended the Inspiring Community Inc. public meeting to discuss replacing the Legion Field ‘Art Hall’ on Tuesday, September 18 that 6 p.m. in the Legion Field Art Hall.  Luke Peters, City Recreation and Forestry Director, shared that the unheated building is used 75% of weekend days during the summer. Peters also shared an Architect’s report on the physical state of the building.  Repair and replacement options were reviewed.

Gene Weber, Inspiring Community Board Member, shared that several people have offered to assist with fundraising prior to the meeting.  Additionally, Weber shared that the City of Platteville has allocated $50,000 to this endeavor, another area entity has committed $10,000 and an anonymous donor has pledged $100,000 in matching funds to help replace the building, so the project already has a total challenge match of $160,000.  “The key to making this project happen will be the willingness of dedicated community leaders to step forward and join the steering committee to manage and fundraise for this project,” noted Weber.  He shared that Inspiring Community would continue to support the project through grant writing and networking, mentoring in the fundraising effort, and providing administration support by printing and mailing fundraising material.  They would also be the non-profit 501(3)c accepting and receipting checks, thanking donors and paying bills.

Barb Daus, Inspiring Community and MC of the meeting, lead the discussion that followed. Attendees were asked to complete a form detailing their level of interest in helping and offering their services to help determine if there is sufficient leadership interest to make the project a go.

Typical of Platteville’s “giving back” culture, more leaders volunteered to be candidates for the steering committee than were needed.  The steering committee is expected to be finalized this week.  In addition, five volunteers have already signed on as fundraisers. You can help by notifying Ruth Hinzmann (608) 319-4045 or ruthh.asst2.ctang@gmail.com of your willingness to make a contribution, help raise funds, or assist in another way.  

The purpose of Inspiring community, Inc. is to build community and promote civic engagement through collaboration, leveraging investments, and fostering leadership and volunteerism.  Inspiring Community works to further its mission by supporting projects and organizations that work to improve community livability, have strong community support, and promote volunteerism and collaboration.  The organization also works to educate community members about philanthropy, leadership, and volunteerism.  Inspiring community works with community members and organizations to help them leave an impact on their communities.  Inspiring Community is currently focusing its efforts on Platteville.