 In just over a year into renovation of the MAC building, we want to share exciting news, offer an update, and a financial snapshot. Exciting NewsWe all have an opportunity to help fund the completion of Phase 1, which will allow us to occupy and begin working out of the building. All donations between now and December 31st will be matched, up to a total of $100,000. This doubles the value of your contribution, small or large, to help complete Phase 1. Why Support this Project?As we all know, there are many important Baba projects throughout the world, all serving Meher Baba in different ways and all needing support. We feel MAC is addressing a unique need in the Baba world at this time and will continue to do so long past our lifetimes. If you resonate with the vision and potential of this project, we invite you to be part of it and join us in this effort. We would be delighted to hear from you to learn how you would like to be involved. Extraordinary Value and Potential of the Project Immediate Need $325,000 to Complete Phase 1 With the acquisition of the Red Oak School property, MAC's initial vision has expanded to include an extensive library and resource center dedicated to Meher Baba: space for gatherings and seminars of various kinds, a museum and display area for both Baba Lovers and the general public, as well as a location for professional performances and events in the large auditorium. All this is in addition to the core mission of archive processing, storage, display, and open sharing of material related to Meher Baba’s Advent. This project is unique in scope in the Baba world at this time. Not counting the value of the land (6 flat acres, private well) or the caretakers’ cottage, MAC was able to purchase the 25,000 sqft property for $22 a square foot. This is an extraordinary value for a building that, with the proper care, is likely to last for centuries. Its value has increased already with the work that has gone into it so far. After all three phases of renovation are complete, we expect the total cost to be less than $90/sqft, approximately a third of the cost to build, or put another way, three times the amount of space we would have had with the same investment. This space is reserved to serve Baba for many generations to come. Potential for Ongoing Income We intend to rent out available space until MAC grows into the building's full footprint over time (on the ground floor, to be renovated in Phase 2, along with the auditorium in Phase 3). This rental space will provide income to offset a considerable portion of MAC’s future operating costs. Efficiency & Frugality In recognizing the fiscal values that Meher Baba encouraged from his followers, we are being very careful with the use of the money that has been generously donated so far. By Baba’s grace, we have the invaluable support of Peter Nordeen, who, along with the architects, has guided both the discovery and preparatory phase of the work, and is now overseeing the new construction that is needed. The work has progressed very efficiently and with many cost savings, such as: The caretakers’ cottage - This building (in which Gay and Greg Dunn currently live) was completely refurbished and painted inside and out by volunteers for a total cost of only $300. Recycling of materials - Peter Nordeen is a master of both efficiency and economy and under his eagle eye, we have been able to reuse a great deal of the original material within the building, and waste has been minimal. Rubble such as old masonry and concrete is being kept for future grading work outside. Nothing goes to waste. Volunteer labor – With the help of over 6,000 hours of volunteer labor, we have worked to keep costs down, as well as providing a vehicle for many people to participate directly in a project devoted to Meher Baba. Support - The outpouring of love and support has been very moving. These include financial donations small and large, the dozens of volunteers who continue to give their time and expertise. We would like to extend a warm THANK YOU! to everyone who has participated to date – you are the reason the project is happening and progressing and will succeed! And most importantly, we THANK MEHER BABA, who has turned the key to make all this possible. May we continue to keep our focus and devotion on You. Renovation Progress So FarFrom August 2018 through November 2019, at a total cost of approximately $250,000:
Next Steps to Complete Phase I
An additional $325,000 is needed to complete Phase One of the project. Individual donations can be made via our website, with options to contribute to the Capital Fund, or set up recurring monthly donations. We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to double the value of your support, at whatever level you are able (From now until Dec. 31, 2019). Donations can also be made by wire transfer or check, payable to: Meher Archive Collective PO Box 18908 Asheville, NC 28814-0908, To discuss how MAC can best meet your needs, including gifts of securities, legacy giving, and other vehicles available for flexible tax-deductible benefits over time, please contact scott@meherarchive.org Scott Tower Maloney, Treasurer Meher Archive Collective |
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