Perceptions Yoga, Mindfulness & Art Inc.’s crowdfunding effort aims to will make its second-story offerings accessible to all.
VERNON — Perceptions Yoga, Mindfulness & Art Inc. has launched a crowdfunding effort in hopes of attaining a matching $20,000 state grant to install a lift to make the second story of its historic building space accessible to all.
As of earlier this week, the campaign had raised more than $7,000 toward its goal.
Perceptions president Charlinda Evans said a crowdfunding campaign is aiming to raise that amount by Sept. 15 in order to apply for a state matching grant from the Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority’s CreatINg Places initiative. Funds would be used for professional installation of a Garaventa enclosed exterior wheelchair lift at the historic building that houses Perceptions’ galleries and event spaces.
“As a nonprofit organization we are committed to providing a safe and accessible place for all to pursue self-care, wellness and creative endeavors,” said Evans. “With the installation of this lift, we are showing our commitment to our values and fulfilling our mission to serve our community. It’s an ambitious project financially but sometimes you just have to follow your heart, ask for support and make it happen.”
The project has the support of Indiana Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Indiana’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development as well as a matching grant from AARP.
“This campaign for greater accessibility in Vernon will increase access to recreation, promote healthy lifestyles and improve the overall quality of life for Jennings County senior citizens,” Crouch said. “This project will bring immediate positive change to the area and is an excellent example of how the CreatINg Livable Communities Partnership can be used to benefit an entire community.”
For more information about the crowdfunding campaign or to donate, visit pereceptionsyoga.org. For more information about the CreatINg Places program, visit in.gov/ihcda/placemaking-indiana/creating-places/.
