What is the Damien and Marianne Education Center?
The Damien and Marianne of Moloka’i Education Center will tell the story of Hawaii’s two saints, St. Damien de Veuster ss.cc. and St Marianne Cope osf, and their dedicated service to the leprosy patients exiled to Kalauapapa, Molokai. The Center will house historic photographs, interactive displays, and artifacts and will include a meditation garden.
Where on the St. Augustine property will be the Education Center be located?
The Damien and Marianne of Moloka’i Education Center will be a two-story building on the ewa side of the Church, fronting Kalakaua Avenue. Once the project begins, there will no longer be a driveway exiting onto Kalakaua Avenue from the church property.
Who will own and operate the Education Center?
The Damien and Marianne of Moloka’i Education Center will have its own management
staff and a governing board independent of the parish community. The Education Center will lease the building from St. Augustine Church.
What is the cost of the project?
The total cost of the Education Center project, including preliminary planning, architectural work, construction and finishing will be $6 million.
Is there a Damien and Marianne of Moloka’i Education Center capital campaign and who is leading it?
Yes, we have embarked on a capital campaign to complete the fundraising for the project. It is being led by Creative Fundraising Solutions.
What if the fundraising campaign does not raise all the money that is needed?
In the unlikely event that the total cost of the project in not raised through the capital campaign, St. Augustine Church will secure a line of credit to ensure that there are funds to complete the Education Center.
When will construction start and how long will it last?
Construction on the Damien and Marianne of Moloka’i Education Center is scheduled to begin in May 2018. We anticipate that the building will be completed in 18 months, or in Fall 2019.
What will happen to church parking during construction?
There will continue to be parking in the back parking lot and we will have volunteers managing the parking. We ask for your kokua, patience and cooperation as we strive to accommodate as many cars as possible during construction.
How can I make a donation?
Donations can be made to Damien and Marianne of Moloka’i Education Center (DMMEC) at 130 Ohua Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96815. You also can call the Campaign Office at 926-0803 for more information.
Can I only make a cash donation or will you take other gifts (such as stocks, real estate, qualified distribution from IRA)?
Yes, you may make gifts of securities, real estate and IRA distributions. Gifts other than cash will be sold upon receipt for cash. We encourage you to consult your tax advisor before making your gifts.
Will the construction affect Aunty Carmen’s Kitchen?
Aunty Carmen’s Kitchen will continue to provide a hot meal each weekday to the poor and hungry in our community. The construction will not impede this ministry.
What is the status of the proposed multi-purpose building?
It is still under consideration on how it will be built after the completion of the Education Center.
How can I help?
You can help with our project through your own cash contributions and encouraging others to donate. In addition, we encourage volunteer assistance as our campaign moves forward. Please call the Campaign Office at 926-0803 to discuss how your skills can be put to use. We know that the message of Sts. Damien and Marianne is one that will resonate with all who visit the Damien and Marianne of Moloka’i Education Center and we encourage our parishioners, visitors and friends to join us in bringing this project to fruition.
Go to our Web Site: Damien and Marianne of Moloka’i Education Center and “click” on the DONATE tab, then select Damien and Marianne of Moloka’i Education Center to make your donation by credit card or check.
