Capital Campaign

In 2008, LMM began to strategically address issues with its West 25^th Street building – the lack of accessibility, as well as its lack of space for much needed counselling offices, employment and volunteer training rooms, and advocacy meeting space. Encouraged by a philanthropic study but slowed by the economic downtown, LMM is now moving forward on plans for a new Richard Sering Center.

The $7-million project – Building on the Promise – will take two years to complete. The board of LMM and a few early donors have committed over $1-million. Additional funds will come from foundations, the church community, the philanthropic community and local government.

LMM’s building committee, led by Board Treasurer George Hill, negotiated a purchase agreement for property on E. 45^th Street & Superior, in the St. Clair-Superior neighborhood of Cleveland.  The campaign committee, led by Rev. Henry Doll and Mr. John Fish, has organized a leadership team and the committees that are needed to raise awareness of the project and funds.  The ELCA Northeastern Ohio Synod Council unanimously approved the effort. With the support of LMM trustee David Bowers, the LCMS Ohio District Church Extension Fund is standing by to participate.

The Presbytery of the Western Reserve, a longstanding Community Re-Entry partner, is participating in the project because of North Presbyterian Church. North Church, located at E. 40 Street and Superior, is a small worshipping community; half of its members are homeless. It has a long history of social ministry, providing meals and family services in the St. Clair-Superior neighbourhood. Rev. Charlie Hurst works part time at North Church and part time at LMM’s men’s shelter at 2100 Lakeside.

The Presbytery is committed to North Church’s work in the city, but the aging North Church building cannot be maintained.  After much mission-sharing and discussion with LMM, the Presbytery voted unanimously to relocate North Church within LMM’s new building. North Church will have its own entrance and worship space, and will share LMM’s kitchen and common space for its meals ministry.

For more information about Building on the Promise for yourself, your congregation or community group, contact Ward Pallotta at 216-658-4640 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or Heather McGinness at 216-658-7208 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .