Press Release Contact: Jessica King 412-363-4550 jess@unionproject.org March 28, 2005 For Immediate Release Union Project Announces Groundbreaking for Phase 1 Renovations and Recent Grants The Union Project, an East End non-profit organization that is restoring the former Union Baptist Church to provide gathering and working space for artists, community builders and people of faith, is announcing a public groundbreaking to celebrate the beginning of new construction on the 15,000 square foot historic structure. With the receipt of several recent grants, over $1,226,000 has been raised toward the $1,646,000 Phase I goal. The public groundbreaking event will coincide with a Union Project volunteer workday on Saturday April 16. Volunteers are invited to come assist in final demolition projects between 10 am and 3 pm. The public is invited to come for tours and a small groundbreaking ceremony beginning at 1pm. Capital Grants were made by the Richard King Mellon Foundation ($350,000), an anonymous donor ($250,000), the Hillman Foundation ($50,000), and State Senator Jim Ferlo ($5,000) and State Representative Joseph Preston ($5,000) through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. As well, Union Project Board members have pledged over $30,000 to the Capital Campaign and over 1,100 community volunteers along with stained glass restoration class members have contributed over $500,000 in in-kind services to the project. Additional funds are needed to meet the $1,646,000 goal, and fundraising is expected to be complete by Labor Day this year. “We’ve worked long and hard with many neighbors and friends to build this organization and raise this support. We are humbled and grateful for the outpouring of support from foundations, government, business and individuals. We can see the goal and are excited to start construction so this vision can become a reality!” says Executive Director Jessica King. City Council members Len Bodack and Bill Peduto have allocated $7,500 in Community Development Block Grant funds to support the programming, outreach and planning efforts of the Union Project. Bodack says, “I am very excited to work with the Union Project. Soon, this gateway to Highland Park will be a truly unique neighborhood resource ‘to connect, create, and celebrate’”. Peduto added, “I am confident that the good work of the Union Project will continue to serve the needs of Pittsburgh Residents.” Massaro Corporation has generously donated their services as Construction Managers and helped to make this grassroots project possible. Joseph Massaro, III, says, "One of our Guiding Principles is that we support the communities in which we work, and our involvement in this important project has given us an excellent opportunity to live out our values. The Union Project is a tribute to what can be accomplished when the community works together on a shared vision." Phase 1 construction will include necessary fire safety and ADA Accessibility changes, the renovation of the 3-story former Sunday school wing into office and studio space, and the renovation of the former narthex into Union Station Coffee Shop in partnership with Peabody High School Culinary Arts Academy Students. Since its inception, over 3 years ago, the Union Project has worked with over 1,100 volunteers to prepare the building for new construction. The upcoming renovations will continue to provide opportunities for volunteers to be part of the restoration of this important community landmark. More information can be found at www.unionproject.org. _______________________________________________ update mailing list update@unionproject.org http://unionproject.mennonite.net/mailman/listinfo/update.unionproject