LCC-Lao Cultural Center

After two years, Lao PTA and the Capital Campaign Committee have finally found a building that can become the Lao Cultural Center and improve the facilities for all of the youth and family programs.  Entering Minneapolis on West Broadway, the property at 2648 is the first building on the north, just past Lowry Avenue and Wirth Parkway, East of North Memorial Hospital in Robbinsdale.

The building was built in 1952 and has approximately 6,500 square feet on the first floor and 3,795 on the lower level.  The goal of the Lao Cultural Center is to create a culturally affirming place for Lao youth, parents and other adults to learn new skill, practice and preserve Lao Cultural and share it with the general public, celebrate and socialize together, and access information and resources from the mainstream community.

 The building was purchased at a negotiated price of $350,000, or less than $35 per leasable square foot.  To avoid the transaction cost of a bank loan, short-term contract-for-deed was negotiated to be paid in full on the balance refinanced by January 31, 2001.  Lao PTA has received or has commitments for $141, 7000 (10,575 from the Lao community and $131,700 from foundations).  An initial down payment of $50,000 was agreed to, and with an additional down payment of $50,000 due January 31, 2000.

The $925,000 capital campaign has three phases.  The phase includes the down payment for the building, interim building operating expenses, and minimum costs to make the building function for both classes and assemblies.  The Lao PTA plans to move to the new building by November 1, 1999.  

The second phase includes furnishings so the banquet hall can be rented for community events, The third phase, after the acquisition is paid for, covers costs to renovate the building (new flooring, new windows, making bathrooms fully accessible), high quality movable partitions for the multipurpose room, and purchasing additional kitchen equipment so food can be easily prepared and served.  The final phase includes redoing the roof so the building has a Lao roof profile and commissioning Lao artist to create an outdoor concrete sculpture.  A water dragon and two giants will guard and protect the building and it occupants. A funded replacement reserve is also included.

            Campaign Committee strongly hopes that you will share the ownership of the Lao Cultural Center with us b making your financial contribution.  Now, more than ever, your support is needed to make this possible.  Any amount/contribution is welcome and greatly appreciated.

Please make your check payable to Lao PTA Capital Fund!  Your name will forever be on the list of contribution.  Of course, we will issue you a receipt for tax deductible. 

Thank you so much for your time, consideration, and generosity.  Best wishes to you and your family.