LODGEPOLE -- The Lodgepole Community Fund (LCF) has received a $10,000 grant from the Thomas Buckley Trust to help with the HVAC system at the Panther Activity Center.

The Panther Activity Center (PAC) is the old high school building located in Lodgepole, Nebraska. The Village of Lodgepole assumed ownership of the building in August 2020. For several years it served as a hub for recreation, events, and gatherings until mechanical failures in the heating system forced the building to be closed.

The Panther Activity Center is a tremendous asset in Lodgepole, and many individuals of the community and surrounding area want to see the PAC reopened. At the request of the individuals that support the PAC’s reopening, the Village of Lodgepole approved the formation of the PAC Committee, which will operate and maintain the PAC, while the Village retains ownership. The Lodgepole Community Fund will accept donations to the PAC Account that is used exclusively to support the PAC.

The PAC Committee is working to raise funds that will cover the necessary renovations needed to reopen the PAC. This grant from the Thomas Buckley Trust is a big boost in the fundraising efforts. Renovations needed include the heating and cooling system, water line and restroom renovations and general building maintenance and efficiency upgrades. The building is brick and has good bones, it simply needs a little love.

The Lodgepole Community Fund has already contributed over $13,000 in repairs to the PAC, but there is much work to do. We welcome assistance from all that would like to see the Panther Activity Center open and operational.

Those interested in contributing please contact an Lodgepole Community Fund member or PAC Committee member.