What is the Damien and Marianne of Molokaʻi Education Center?
The Damien and Marianne of Molokaʻi Education Center will tell the story of the people of Kalaupapa, Saint Damien De Veuster, ss.cc. and Saint Marianne Cope, o.s.f. It’s a story of forced segregation, of the human resilience of heart and spirit, and what can be achieved by ordinary people with extraordinary compassion and dedication to helping those in need. Their stories will be told through historic photographs and artifacts, interactive displays, and video presentations.
Where will the Education Center be located?
The Damien and Marianne of Molokaʻi Education Center will be a two-story, 5,900 square foot building located next to St. Augustine Church, fronting Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki. Address is 2512 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815.
Who owns and will manage the Education Center once itʻs opened?
Although the Damien and Marianne of Molokaʻi Education Center is a ministry of St. Augustine Church, it will have its own management staff and a governing board independent of the parish community, and will appeal to all walks of life, young and old.
What is the cost of the project?
The total cost of the project, including preliminary planning, architectural work, construction and finishing will be $6 million.
Is there a Damien and Marianne of Molokaʻi Education Center capital campaign underway?
Yes, we have embarked on a capital campaign to complete the construction, interior design and exhibit installation. To date, we have raised $3 million to fund the construction of the building, with another $3 million needed to cover the costs of interior design and exhibit installation.
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 is not raised through the capital campaign, St. Augustine Church will secure a line of credit to ensure there are funds to complete the Education Center.
When will construction start and how long will it last?
A groundbreaking ceremony was held in April 2018, and construction started in May 2018. Building construction is expected to be completed in November 2019, with interior design and exhibit installation starting after. Completion on the Education Center is expected in 2020.
What will happen to St. Augustine 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 (assistance), 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 through our website, www.damienandmarianne.org, or by visiting St. Augustine Church at 130 ‘Ohua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815. You can also call the Campaign Office at 808-926-0803 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?
No, Aunty Carmen’s Kitchen will continue to provide a hot meal each weekday to those in need in our community. The construction will not impede this ministry that serves, on average, more than 15,000 people each year.
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?
No gift is too small, and all gifts are welcome and greatly appreciated! You can help our project through your cash contributions and by encouraging others to donate. In addition, we welcome volunteer assistance as our campaign continues to move forward. Please call the Campaign Office at 808-926-0803 to discuss how your time and talent can assist us.
We know the story of the people of Kalaupapa, Saint Damien De Veuster, ss.cc and Saint Marianne Cope, o.s.f. is one that will inspire all who visit the Damien and Marianne of Molokaʻi Education Center and we encourage our St. Augustine Church parishioners, visitors and friends, near and far, to join us in bringing this project to fruition.
Go to our website: www.damienandmarianne.org; click on the DONATE tab; then select Damien and Marianne of Molokaʻi Education Center to make your donation by credit card or check. Donations are tax deductible to the extent as allowed by law. Mahalo!
