Building Capital Campaign
June 2026
Dear Friends and Partners of Life Challenge,
For generations, our building on Detroit’s west side has stood as a place of refuge, faith, and transformation. It is a beautiful and historic structure—one that has carried enormous purpose—but it has also suffered from years of deferred maintenance. The ravages of time are apparent, and the moment to reverse them is now.
This spring, Life Challenge of Southeastern Michigan is embarking on a critical capital campaign to stabilize and restore our facility so it can continue to serve the men and families who depend on it.
Our Immediate Priority: A New Roof ($350,000) and New Fire Alarm System ($130,000)
We have received professional estimates and must replace the roof as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the building. The fire alarm replacement is a safety and a building code requirement. The total cost is $480,000, and we are seeking to complete this work by the end of this summer.
A sound roof and a reliable fire alarm system are not optional— both are critical. Without these improvements, further investment in the building simply cannot move forward
Our Long-Term Vision: Infrastructure Renewal ($3 Million)
Beyond the roof and fire alarm system, our long-term capital goal is an additional $3,000,000 to address essential infrastructure needs, including:
· Boiler, HVAC replacement and mechanical upgrades
· Updated security systems
· Electrical and plumbing modernization
· Elevator replacement
· Window replacements
These improvements will bring the building into compliance, ensure safety, and preserve it for ministry for decades to come.
How Donated Funds Will Be Used
We believe strongly in clarity and stewardship, and we want every donor to understand exactly how contributions to this campaign will be handled.
· All gifts toward the first $480,000 raised will be used exclusively for the roof replacement and fire alarm system replacement.
· Where funds are raised beyond the initial $480,000 but fall short of the full $3 million infrastructure goal, Life Challenge of Southeastern Michigan reserves the right to designate amounts raised above $480,000 to support the organization’s engineering efforts for the design of the HVAC, security and other targeted capital needs while remaining aligned with the spirit and intent of the capital campaign.
This approach allows us to act responsibly, complete urgent repairs and replacements and ensure that every dollar entrusted to us strengthens the overall mission of Life Challenge.
Life Challenge of Southeastern Michigan is a tax-exempt religious organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and is registered in the State of Michigan. All gifts are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
An Invitation to Help Restore What Matters
This building tells a story—of redemption, faith, perseverance, and hope. While it has been neglected for too long, we believe wholeheartedly that its best days are still ahead.
Whether you are able to give financially, pray for this effort, or share this vision with others, you are helping to preserve a place where lives continue to be changed.
Thank you for standing with Life Challenge of Southeastern Michigan as we take this important step forward.
With gratitude,
Jeff Bonzelaar
Executive Director
Life Challenge of Southeastern Michigan
jbonzelaar@lcministries.org
(313) 531-0111
Click Here to Give Toward Our Capital Campaign
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