By Gayle Carlson

The Parkland Community Assn. (PCA) is raising funds to purchase the school from Pacific Lutheran University (PLU).  Our goal is for the building to become a community center for youths, families, and seniors.

In November the PCA made a $25,000 deposit into escrow as required by the Purchase and Sales Agreement. We did not make our goal of raising $1.5 million by November 3^rd.  PLU has offered an amended option which the PCA voted to accept. If we meet the new requirement of $1 million by January 31st, PLU will lower the price by $350,000. The legislature awarded us $500,000 of which most can be used towards the $1 million needed.  We have received many donations and now we still need $346,100.92 by January 31^st.  We have been applying for grants and have received some. We have state and county representatives supporting us and we hope they will be able to award PCA funds during the short session. We are hopeful the purchase can be completed and the building slowly renovated one area or floor at a time.  The most important need is repairs to the roof.  We already have offers of help with the roof and flooring from local companies.

Once we have possession of the school, we qualify for additional grants that would enable us to make repairs and ready the building for occupancy.

One huge asset of the building is the wonderful gym that was updated by Mt. Rainier Lutheran High School during the 3 years it occupied the building.  There is also a stage that could be used for community productions. See the picture of the current condition of the gym.

The PCA is a 501(c)(3) and all donations are tax deductible.  All donations, no matter how small, are appreciated. Donations can be made using the QR code shown. Please spread the word that PCA needs help to make this community center a reality. Sign up for email updates at www.saveparklandschool.org and/or follow on Facebook: tiny.cc/saveparklandschoolfb. Contact PCA at saveparklandschool@gmail.com. The PCA thanks you for your interest and support.