VFW Post 7731 in Lake Leelanau is beginning to see momentum in its $800,000 fundraising campaign to restore and modernize its historic hall. The effort, led entirely by local veterans and volunteers, is still in its early stages but has already raised a mix of small donations and a few larger gifts, including one for $20,000.
“We’re just getting started, and none of us have fundraising experience,” said Jim Simons, a veteran who has organized Memorial and Veterans Day ceremonies for the Post. “But the community has been outstanding in helping us.”
The Post is now focusing on outreach to both locals and seasonal residents. “We’re trying to connect with summer people who have a history with the hall; many of them have attended weddings or events here,” Simons said.
