By Rebecca Wallace
For years, St Paul United Methodist Church has worked to be a good neighbor to local residents, community organizations, and businesses. From offering children and youth activities and sharing meeting spaces to hosting Halloween hospitality and the Candlelight Tour of Homes, the church has supported countless people and organizations over the years.
Now the church is asking for support from its neighbors. In July, St Paul UMC launched Raise the Roof, a fundraising campaign to replace the church’s aging roof. The project is significant, and they cannot do it alone.
“Beyond the congregation, we are reaching out to our neighbors and community partners who know firsthand what this building means to the people it serves,” said St. Paul UMC Pastor Cassie Rapko.
More than a place of worship, the building is home to the Grant Park Cooperative Preschool throughout the year; monthly meetings of the Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts; a weekly rehearsal space for the Freedom Marching Band; St. Paul Basketball for more than 360 young people every winter; and Vacation Bible School and kids camp every summer. Thousands of people congregate under its roof every year. A sound, safe building ensures all this can continue.
The Raise the Roof campaign goal is $85,000, and thanks to the St. Paul congregation, $36,000 has been pledged already. To make up the significant funding gap, the church is asking neighbors to contribute in whatever way is meaningful:
Financial gift. Checks may be made payable to St Paul UMC with “Raise the Roof” in the memo line and mailed to 501 Grant Street SE, Atlanta, GA 30312. Online gifts can be made at stpaulgrantpark.org/donate. Scan the QR code to donate to the Raise the Roof Campaign.
Corporate matching gift or donation. If your company or organization has a charitable giving or community investment program, please share information on how the church can apply.
Promotion. Help spread the word by sharing the campaign with your networks, email lists, or social media.
All gifts are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. St Paul UMC is a registered 501(c)(3) organization which has served as a cornerstone of the Grant Park neighborhood for more than 150 years.
