DESCRIPTION:
In the summer of 2000, a handful of teenagers in the small town of North Manchester, Indiana converted an abandoned fire station, some spare couches, and a whole lot of ambition into The Firehouse, a free, all-ages music venue. Though it was only intended to last the summer, the work of the youth and the philanthropy of the community made it a permanent fixture on Main Street. Its stage, free and open to the public, now boasts an impressive history of musical acts from around the globe, and has also been home to art and talent shows, fundraising events, and dramatic productions.
On July 25 of 2007, however, heavy rains collapsed the roof and flooded the interior, destroying the town's beloved music venue. But refusing to abandon the cause of The Firehouse, which has become so integral in defining North Manchester, the community has resolved to rebuild and to support it into the future. The rewarding work done to this point demonstrates serious commitment (go to www.youtube.com/SaveTheFirehouse to see some of the progress), but in order to move forward we must appeal to a broader audience to secure funds.

Without a doubt, The Firehouse is a treasure worth saving for anyone with a devotion to encouraging musical creativity in the youth and to supporting the potential of community cooperation. That the idea of the Firehouse lives on even when its structure has collapsed is testimony to its firm place in the hearts of the community. It is a gem in our small town that has brought marked diversity and vibrancy to both the surrounding community and the performers who pass through its doors.

With the idiosyncrasy of this precious place in mind, we ask for your assistance. Though the building may be broken, our inspiration is not. Join your flame to ours and help us reconstruct The Firehouse. For more information and to make donations please visit www.thefirehouse.net