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ASF/WJLA Built Upon a Dream

 
In two weeks, the transformation of the Alexandria Seaport Foundation’s facilities begins. As many of you know, WJLA (our local ABC television affiliate) selected us as their 2008 Built Upon a Dream project (http://www.wjla.com, keyword “dream.”) — an incredible opportunity to take our programs to the next level. With a $400,000 budget, this facilities “makeover” is the most ambitious project we have ever undertaken.  Currently, we are at $216,000, more than half way to our goal.  Your contribution to this project is critical to making this dream come true.

Our new, up-to-date training facilities will provide apprentices and volunteers with heated shop space and additional classroom space. These will drastically improve our efficiency and further integrate our workshop with hands on learning. When we’re done, our most public space, the Seaport Center can stop being a part-time classroom and always be humming with apprentices and volunteers building boats. Perhaps most meaningfully, we’ll be able to say, “Yes” to program partners such as the Juvenile Court Service Unit who for years have asked us to revive our after school programming for disadvantaged youths.  So, you can see that this is much more than just a surface makeover; it’s a chance to reach more people and do better work. View upgraded facility blueprint (PDF)

Donations are coming in three ways: through services, materials, and cash.  Folks have been tremendously generous with services and materials, including Kirkland Construction, Rand Construction, R& B Inc., Tech Painting and our architect, Jim Ritter.  Naturally, there are some items that we are just unable to get and must purchase. As always, cash is the hardest item to raise.  BoatU.S., our longest supporter, has taken the lead and contributed $15,000 to help purchase the dust collector and certain other equipment. We need you to join them!

Please consider becoming a Master Builder, a Builder, a Carpenter, or a Nuts and Bolts contributor. In appreciation, your name will be added to our Builder’s Wall in the new workshop. Any amount you can give is greatly appreciated. Download Donation Form (PDF). 

As always, thanks so much for your continued partnership with the Alexandria Seaport Foundation in our work to change lives. Together, we can make this “dream” come true.