Genesis Express got a huge boost in its fundraising effort Thursday as the non-profit organization continues working toward the construction of an intergeneration center on Jefferson Street.
During Thursday’s Cadiz Rotary radio auction, money raised through the century club was matched three-fold by anonymous friends of rotary. Every dollar earmarked Thursday for Genesis Express was matched three times up to $25,000. Once the $75,000 match was met, auction co-chair Alana Baker Dunn shared more good news.
click to download audioWith the announced $30,000 donation at Monday’s kickoff breakfast combined with $103,000 raised Thursday, over $130,000 is headed to Genesis Express.
Construction is already underway on the 12,000 square foot building that will cost an estimated $1.2 million to complete. Long-time Rotarian Jim Wallace said land for the project was donated by former Cadiz City Councilwoman and late teacher Juanita Oates.
click to download audioWallace said members of Genesis Express were grateful for Thursday’s fundraising effort through the auction, which also included them selling BBQ dinners.
click to download audioComing into 2022, Genesis Express had already raised nearly $250,000 for the project. Wallace said this year’s auction hopefully provides them with the boost they need to succeed.
click to download audioThe first phase of the intergeneration center will house classrooms, a commercial kitchen, office space, and storage space.
The second phase will include a gymnasium with the timetable for completion to be determined by funding.
Genesis Express turned a former small engine repair shop into its current facility at Cadiz Central Park. For over three decades, they have offered after-school tutoring, a summer reading program, classes that teach computer and vocational skills, as well as life skills.
Genesis Express will continue to support its various programs through catering and barbecue sales. These include awarding scholarships to Trigg County High School students and offering support to the school system’s athletic programs.