The steering committee for the new Grand Junction Community Center has established a new account to make it easier for people to donate to their project.

Committee Chair Diane Wise says they created an online site with gofundme.com where people can make an online donation for their $1.1 million project.  She adds that they are trying to raise $30,000 for a $220,000 Vision Iowa Community Attraction and Tourism Grant that they received in December.

However, the main stipulation before the committee actually receives the grant money is they must match $30,000 within 90 days of the grant announcement.  As of Thursday morning, they have $2,760 of their $30,000 goal raised on the site.  A donor can choose to have their name mentioned on the site or remain anonymous.

With the Vision Iowa grant, it will provide enough funds for the final teardown of the old buildings and allow for the construction of the new facility.

The proposed community center will replace the old structure that was created in the late 1980’s on Main Street.  It is made up of two storefronts that were connected through a doorway.  However, the two buildings fell into disrepair with maintenance problems and a black mold infestation.

The building will house city hall and council chambers and will include a kitchen, small meeting room and a large special events space that combined with the smaller meeting room can accommodate events and activities for up to 250 people.

Wise is aiming to break ground for the new facility this spring.

To make a donation to the website, click HERE.  Otherwise, regular donations can be made to the New Grand Junction Community Center at P.O. Box 383, Grand Junction, IA 50107.