Thank You, GBC!
Over the last year, we’ve made many noticeable improvements to our church property—even without an official building campaign. We are deeply thankful for those who continue to give toward Joyful Generosity.
When we purchased this building four years ago, it was truly a sore sight to the community. By God’s grace and your generosity, it has been wonderfully transformed into the welcoming place we worship in today.
Improvements This Past Year
This year our main focus was on the front of the building. We removed the old sign and outdated asphalt lot, installed beautiful new brick columns with lighting, poured a brand-new concrete parking lot, and cleaned up underground infrastructure along the way. We also prepared for a future wrought-iron fence and added a new monument sign. Our original master plan included purchasing the neighboring property someday, but it was bought this past year by another business. Since that limits our ability to expand, we are shifting our focus toward a more immediate need that will better serve our church family right now.
Next Project: A New Playground
After gathering input from a focus group, we believe the best next step is building a new playground. The current equipment is outdated and unsafe in the summer heat, and our kids need a better place to play between times of learning God’s Word.
The plan is to expand the playground in its current location, creating two age-appropriate sections with safe access between them. The entire area would include a concrete walking perimeter, fencing, durable ground covering, benches, trees, and at least three large shade structures so families can actually sit and enjoy the space.
We are also looking at high-quality equipment built to last, including some fun musical play features that may even inspire future worship team members.
Cost, Timeline, and How You Can Help
The total cost of the new playground is estimated at $120,000, including all preparation work. Joyful Generosity giving has averaged about $12,000 per month, and our hope is to begin construction by mid-summer once adequate funds are available, with completion expected within a few months.
We will also be hosting work days this summer to help with installation, saving around $20,000 in labor costs. Please be praying especially for our project coordinator, Mark DeVries, who is recovering at home after triple bypass surgery.
We are not asking anyone to pledge, but as the Lord lays it on your heart, gifts above normal offerings may be designated as Joyful Generosity or Playground.
Thank you to everyone who has helped provide leadership and input, especially Kari Ardis, Mark and Caroleen DeVries, and Children’s Ministry Directors Aaron and Lori Byrd. We are grateful for what God is doing at GBC and excited for what’s ahead!