Fundraising

Fundraising

Fundraising is an ongoing effort as the Preservation Committee continues to make improvements and better equip the Paradise Center for its new life. Funds come from private and business contributions as well as through grants. All contributions are valued and assist in keeping this amazing place in operation.

Current Goals

Repurposing is a complex process and requires careful, orchestrated planning. It also requires community input. The vision for repurposing began in late 2013 after the school closed in May. As with any similar project, the vision needed to combine different ideas and perspectives and yet represent a cohesive vision for the future. The vision for the Paradise Center was to continue in public hands and service to the public as a community, visitor, and arts center.

Current goals include establishing partnerships with a variety of organizations to increase use of The Paradise Center. And, in order to maintain the maximum amount of historic preservation of the school building, we are raising funds for a connecting building that would tie together the schoolhouse and the former gymnasium (now the Multipurpose Room). The new building will maintain an architecture compatible with the early 1900s, serve as a common reception and information area, and provide accessibility to all floors of the school building as well as the Multipurpose Room. It will offer contemporary services while helping preserve the integrity of the historic school. The new building will not have any effect on preservation of the tube fire escape treasured by so many former students.

In addition to the accomplishments highlighted elsewhere on this website, future improvements will greatly enhance The Paradise Center and its usability.

• Classroom building elevator: We have applied for money to install a small passenger elevator in the cloakroom area of the classroom building. This will allow public access to all three levels and improve program opportunities.

• Outside reception patio: Using native stone, we plan to construct a reception patio between the classroom building and gym to serve as the principal public access to the facility. The patio will have seating, shade, be close to handicapped parking spaces, and feature landscaping to create a welcoming environment for visitors. Long-term plans call for the patio to be enclosed by a foyer connecting the two buildings.

• Initial performing arts improvements: The primary use of the multipurpose room (formerly the gym) is for a broad range of performing arts activities. We plan to improve the space to render it usable for a wider variety of activities. Recent improvements include stage platforms and portable sound equipment. We will soon work on audience risers, electrical upgrades, a light board and lights. Long-term needs call for one or more cat-walks, storage, sound buffers, and a new floor.

• Connecting building: WE plan to construct a connecting building that will serve as a common entry for both the historic school and the multipurpose room (formerly the gym). The connecting building will provide access to all floors of the school by an elevator that does not intrude on the historic structure.

• Initial work on amphitheater: Long-term plans call for a multi-level, ADA-accessible outdoor amphitheater for good weather performances and an integrated memorial honoring local veterans. We plan on initial contouring of the amphitheater, the installation of local rock for seating, and a concrete pad for a stage to allow basic use of the theater.

• HVAC maintenance and upgrades: Although the Paradise Elementary School Trustees installed a new heating and cooling system in the multipurpose room, the historic school building still depends on a fuel-oil boiler. We plan to upgrade the system, add cooling, and establish heating/cooling zones for efficiency.