Handicap Ramp Fund for Our Lady of Perpetual Help

Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH), the historic chapel on Ruxton Avenue in Manitou Springs, is the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Diocese of Colorado Springs. So many in the Manitou Springs community recall memories centered at this pretty little chapel:  weddings, baptisms, children dressed in their finest to receive their First Holy Communion.  And who can forget the simple joy of kids climbing on the big rock in our front yard while their parents have coffee with neighbors and friends after Mass?

     OLPH has survived fires and many other challenges in its over 125-year history.  We now face a new challenge.  We are asking for your help in making our historic buildings handicap accessible to everyone.  We do not to want to turn people away when they are not able to manage the front steps of our old buildings.

     The addition of a new ramp and deck will finally enable all parishioners and visitors to enter both the chapel and our community building, the Fr. Schultz House. Using built-up earth, concrete, and local green stone will both minimize maintenance expenses and preserve our traditional appearance, as required by the Historic Preservation Commission of Manitou Springs.

     Additionally, an updated restroom that meets with A.D.A. (Americans with Disabilities Act)    requirements will be added to the Fr. Schultz House. 

     This is a big undertaking for our small church.  Building the deck, creating a new entrance into the  chapel, and remodeling the bathroom to meet ADA standards will cost our little community $166,000.  But with your help, we hope to be able to welcome everyone into our church community.