Call to Action for Roof Repair Donations

10690099_758683700883246_223893725227951347_nSeveral months ago, we approached the community with a plea: a plea for the rescue and rebirth of our society. Our request fell on compassionate, dedicated, and devoted ears as we have revitalized our organization. Monthly meetings are now attracting a full house at times and volunteers continue to step forward, unselfishly giving of their talents and time. Thank you. Without this support and faithfulness, our society could not survive.

The time has come once again for a request for assistance from our devoted followers. This time, the concern is not for warm bodies to occupy volunteer positions but to keep our collection safe and preserved.

We have discovered our roof is in serious disrepair, leaking in multiple locations into the second floor and also the primary museum area on the first. Our irreplaceable collection is in dangerous jeopardy with artifacts already having received the brunt of Mother Nature’s unforgiving hand. A dedicated member empties water-collecting buckets after each rain in an attempt to save our treasures. With Spring-like downpours having arrived, we are on a race against the clock.

Caring for an aging, historic structure is not an easy feat, but we are responsible for its upkeep. However, our humble society’s funds are not in a position to cover the full cost of the repair bill. Part of the expenses are covered through the generosity of the late Mrs. Kathleen D. Pretty who, through estate planning, endowed funds for our perpetuation. However, we are in need of nearly $6,000.00 to cover the remaining balance.

This is where we need your help. Will you please take a stand and pledge a donation of support to save our building and collection? Donations in any amount will be greatly appreciated and put to a just cause, dedicated to preserving Malvern’s legacy and continuing to share our rich contribution to the area and nation as a whole.

We have come to you, our followers, in the past with requests for help and the outpouring of generosity was heartwarming and gratifying. We are secure in knowing you will assist us in this great time of need and raise the necessary funds to keep us around for many years to come.

As a token of our appreciation for donations received, we would like to offer a corresponding membership to our society. Those donating $100.00 or greater will receive a complimentary life time membership to our organization. Other donation amounts given which correspond to the levels listed here will also receive a membership for that particular amount donated:
$10.00 donation = one individual membership for one year.
$15.00 donation = couple or business membership for one year.

As mentioned, any amount donated will be appreciated. Donations received in excess of our total $6,000.00 goal will be earmarked for future building repairs. Remember, the Malvern Historical Society is a non-profit organization and all donations are tax-deductible. Having a membership in the society is non-obligatory, however, it does signify your support to perpetuate the efforts of our community organization.

Please take a moment to reflect on how you might be able to give back to your community and lend a hand in helping to save our museum and collection. Please share your commitment here to demonstrate your support and allow others to know they do not stand alone in contributing to a common cause.

Checks may be made payable to the Malvern Historical Society and mailed to P.O. Box 80, Malvern, OH 44644 or they can be dropped off in person Saturday mornings between the hours of 10 a.m. and noon at our building.

Thank you.

Author: Jason Lombardi

A native of Malvern, Jason's love of history developed at an early age. He became self-appointed caretaker of the Hardesty Cemetery in Malvern at the age of approximately ten-years-old. While researching those interred at the burial ground, Jason made connections with numerous Malvern residents who experienced its history, building a foundational knowledge of historical events and data associated with the village. He served as historian of the Malvern United Methodist Church for a number of years which further perpetuated research of the area. While scouring the community for historical information, Jason connected with Malvern native Mrs. Frances L. (Thomas) Montella. Their joint efforts and common desire to preserve Malvern's past led to the formation of the Malvern Historical Society, Inc. in 1994.