LIFT WC, the nonprofit that undertook its revival is edging so close to completion that just a wee tip of the scale in its favor will put the project over the top.

To date, the project has successfully raised more than $2.2 million towards its $2.8 million goal, according to Darcy Swon, LIFT’s board president.

However, a 21% shortfall remains, and additional support is needed to reach the fundraising target and complete the project, she said.

“The historic Elks Building in downtown Webster City is undergoing a significant transformation, thanks to the dedication of the community and substantial financial support,” she said Thursday.

Still, 21% translates to $588,000. That is the figure LIFT needs to bring the project home.

Swon offered an accounting of where the money has been invested.

“Essential elements of the renovation, including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, drywall and painting, are either completed or in their final stages,” she said.

“The installation of a new elevator, scheduled to enhance accessibility, is anticipated to be finished by spring 2025.

“A tenant has been secured for the main floor, with plans to open for business in conjunction with the elevator’s completion.”

Swon said the details of this important new tenant will be announced at the Taste of Fall fundraising event on October 12 at the Briggs Woods Conference Center. Tickets for the event will be available soon.

“Once the Elks Building is completed, the third-floor ballroom will serve as a versatile venue for hosting a wide range of events. Profits generated from these events will be reinvested into the community through grants to support local businesses and community organizations.

“Additionally, the basement space will be available for lease, further contributing to the building’s role in benefiting the local economy and supporting the community.”

Swon said, “This project proudly demonstrates LIFT WC’s commitment to uplifting the local economy by collaborating with local contractors, each bringing their expertise to the effort.”

That’s another way the project has lifted the community, Swon said: Funds spent locally likely go back into the local economy.

Here’s a list of those contractors:

— Schoolhouse Construction, LLC
— Foam Catz, LLC
— Hamilton Sandblasting
— P&P Electric, Inc.
— Peterson Construction
— Advanced Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.
— The Tile Pro’s, Inc.
— Habhab Construction, Inc.
— Widick Roofing & Construction, Inc.
— Prudent Paint
— Interior Spaces
— Cutting Edge Drywall

“The commitment and involvement of these local businesses highlight the strong spirit of community support that is crucial to the project’s success,” Swon said.

“At the core of LIFT WC is a dedication to community betterment. Since its formation, LIFT WC has been actively involved in various local projects, including the Mini-Pitch Soccer Field, collaboration with the city on the 608 Second Street building that was damaged in the downtown fire, and donations to entities such as ACE (All Cultures Equal) and the Industrial Tech program at Webster City High School, among others.”

Swon talked a bit about the myth of public funding.

“While LIFT WC continues to pursue various grants, it is important to note that such funding opportunities are not as abundant as often perceived. Therefore, community support remains essential.

“Every contribution, regardless of size, plays a significant role in reaching the goal.”

Donations to LIFT WC are tax-deductible and can be made online at http://desmoinesfoundation.org/LiftWC or sent to Enhance Hamilton County Foundation, 501 Bank Street, Webster City, IA 50595. Checks should be made out to LIFT WC.

For more information or if there are any questions, please feel free to reach out to any of the LIFT WC board members:

— Darcy Swon, president
— Lindsay Henderson, vice president
— Zach Chizek, treasurer
— Shannon Swon, secretary
— John Hawkins, board member— Jake Pulis, board member

Swon said the time is now to help complete the funding on this project.

“Together, the community can ensure that the Elks Building becomes a vibrant, functional space. The support and generosity of donors will help bring this vision to life.”

View this article as it originally appeared in the Daily Freeman-Journal.