Lower Neal Renovation

Lower Neal Renovation Update

November 11, 2022

Over the last few years, we have discerned a need for more personal retreat and long-term sabbatical or retreat space. Renovating Lower Neal will allow us to host personal and clergy retreats where each guest will have a private room, including a bathroom and shower. At the end of 2021, we received a donation that allowed us to replace the roof on Lower Neal. Our staff, with the help of two Nomads groups (a UMC Ministry where volunteers travel to worksites while staying in RVs and working at a site), have accomplished the majority of the renovation process. All four rooms were framed in with insulation added, paneling was installed on the walls and ceiling, and showers, toilets, and kitchen sinks were installed. The flooring and new HVAC units, lights, and a bathroom fan were added. The rooms were painted, and new locks were added to the doors. We still have painting touch-ups, stairs that need to be built to the porches, and final electrical and plumbing work. Then we’ll begin the move-in and set-up process. We are excited to be able to offer these rooms beginning in 2023 for personal retreats!

We received $15,000 in donations toward the project to get us started and have recently been awarded a $10,000 Golden Cross matching grant. With the increase in prices throughout the year, the project costs have increased beyond what was originally planned. Would you be willing to help meet our need through a matching gift?

Original Project Proposal