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July 09, 2013
Winnetka, Illinois - A Winnetka, Illinois elementary school is doing something unusual when it comes to the full-scale renovation of its auditorium. Not entirely relying on available public funds, a fundraising committee formed nearly three years ago has raised nearly $85,000 towards the comprehensive renovation of the Romona Elementary School auditorium.
The “Lights Camera Auditorium” fundraising campaign has raised over one quarter of the $350,000 renovation budget through a series of fundraisers. According to Tracy Kearney, Chair of the “Lights Camera Auditorium” committee, the idea of raising private funds shows the community that large-scale projects do not necessarily need to rely on taxpayers' dime. As Kearney points out, the decision to raise private funds was a “moral choice” rather than a “mandated choice,”
Though the majority of the renovation project will be funded by taxpayers, the $85,000 raised through galas, parties, raffles and silent auctions will purchase a new piano, lighting and a projection system.
The bulk of the work – including removing dangerous asbestos ceiling tiles, painting, replacing old curtains, updating the seating and carpeting – will be paid for by the school district. In all, the auditorium will receive a much-needed facelift.
Asbestos is a carcinogenic material often found in common building supplies in older structures. Removing asbestos – or abatement – can be a costly and time-consuming endeavor especially since it is executed by licensed professionals. Asbestos exposure is the leading cause of mesothelioma cancer, lung cancer and other deadly lung diseases.
Raising private funds for the renovation was not necessary to the overall success of the project. However, bringing the community together through the committee's fundraising efforts mirrored how supporters see the purpose of the renovated auditorium.
When the auditorium opens in the fall, it will be a place for not only the elementary students and faculty to gather but also for families. In a word, the newly updated auditorium will be a “living room.”
Work on the renovation project is scheduled to begin this summer.
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