Update on Depot Restoration
We continue to make progress on our signature project, the Strang Depot restoration, at 80th & Santa Fe Drive. In January, the Overland Park Historical Society received a substantial gift from the Sunderland Foundation in the sum of $250,000.
This gift will more than cover the cost of the Phase One improvements, which should be underway by early spring. Phase One improvements include structural work on the building interior, new roofing and new rooftop air conditioning units. Additional gifts were received in January from the Regnier Family Foundation as well as individual donors. Executive Director, Brad Moore, refined the site design after discussions with staff from the City of OverlandPark, creating a pedestrian plaza area on the north side of the building which will be a nice gathering spot and a big draw for visitors. In February, another substantial gift in the amount of $350,000 paid over five years was provided to OPHS. Other grant opportunities, currently being submitted, will allow OPHS to move forward on other future restoration projects. It is an exciting time in our history, as a long - held dream to have a permanent presence in Downtown Overland Park is becoming a reality. ALL ABOARD!
A letter from Brad Moore, Executive Director
September 10, 2021
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
Dear Members and Friends:
As members, and friends, of the Overland Park Historical Society, we are all bonded by a common appreciation of the history of our wonderful city. We strive to fulfill our mission statement in everything we do. As you are already aware, we are in the middle of a major campaign to raise the funds needed to restore the Strang Depot and turn it into our permanent home as well as a real asset in Downtown Overland Park. In working with our professional fundraising consultants, one thing has become clear. Before they are willing to commit funds to any grant request, most major philanthropies and foundations have expectations that the organization requesting funds demonstrate a financial commitment from their supporters. The expectations for our organization are no different. We need to demonstrate that our members, and friends, have the proverbial “skin in the game” as we move forward in our fundraising efforts.
Currently, as we move forward in our fundraising, we are asking our membership and friends to contribute what they can in order for us to meet a criterion to sustain our goals for the future of our ownership of the Strang Depot.
Now is the critical time for you to consider a donation or pledge. A gift of any amount is appreciated. Larger donations can be pledged over a period of years. Please also consider OPHS in your estate planning. Help us demonstrate to major donors that our membership fully supports this important project by making your donation very soon.
If you have any questions, please contact Brad Moore, Executive Director, at email executivedirector@ophistorical.org.
Thank you,
Brad Moore
Executive Director
Overland Park Historical Society
