An unusual challenge was given to The Mountain Institute from a supporter in December of 2006: establish a “building fund” to address the physical needs of the facility. Contributions to this fund were matched, 1:1, by our donor. Contributors to the Spruce Knob fund saw their donations doubled, thanks to this challenge.

Thanks to generous support from many individuals, TMI's Appalachia Program begins 2007 with a new Spruce Knob Building Fund of about $20,000. This is a great beginning for our efforts to upgrade our Spruce Knob facility. Roofs, bathrooms, accommodations, and water system top our checklist for improving and expanding our facility, while keeping the rustic character that appeals to its many friends. We are very grateful to all who helped to make this possible.

Who supported the launch of this special fund? Our friends range from school teachers who have attended our workshops, to current and former staff members and their families, to astronomers who enjoy the dark skies our preserve offers, to 4th graders who want to protect the environment, to adults who routinely participate in programs on the mountain, to Board members, and families of summer campers, neighbors and a collection of others who want to be sure that the Spruce Knob Mountain Center safeguards a beautiful piece of the landscape, and continues to accommodate learners of all kinds.

We continue to welcome contributions and it's easy to do so online.

If you would like to donate online, click here. You will be prompted to enter information in a secure web form. Please go to "Other Information," "Program to Donate for" and select "Spruce Knob Building Fund" from the drop-down list. If you have any questions, please contact Headquarters.

Thank you for your support.