More Than a Building

A Project for the Enhancement and Renovation of Keesee

Since opening in 1956, approximately 1,000 professions of faith have been made and thousands of children had their first exposure to Christ at Keesee Chapel. Through the years, the building has expanded it’s use to become a place for worship, reflection, understanding, and celebration.

In January of 2022, HopeTree set out to make the necessary updates and renovations to this iconic building nestled in the heart of the Salem campus. Renovations to the chapel included:

• New Principal Cross

• New Pulpit

• Praise Banners

• Interlocking Chairs

• New Flooring (Carpet and Vinyl)

• Upgraded Sound System

• Projectors & Dropdown Screens

• Training Area Tables & Chairs

• Additional ADA Restroom

The goal was to enhance spiritual and educational experiences for all that enter the chapel’s doors. Whether it’s a HopeTree resident being able to pray without interruption, or a youth group utilizing the audio/visual upgrades for their services, we wanted all to feel welcome and empowered in this modernized space.

As of October 2022, HopeTree had successfully completed the renovation project and met the $25,000 matching gift challenge set earlier this year by the Charles B. Keesee Foundation. In total, $68,075.76 of funding was secured for the updates and renovations to Keesee Chapel.

The matching gift challenge was met as a result of generous contributions from more than 80 donors and individuals. Lisa Clause, HopeTree Chief Advancement Officer, states, “We are happy to exceed our goals to renovate the Keesee Chapel. We had many individuals and churches support this project including the generous support of Elevation Church and the Keesee Foundation. The Keesee Matching Challenge really put us over the top. Now we have a beautiful chapel to share with the community.”