Overview

Project Living Proof (PLP) is a historic Kansas City home that inspires visitors to adopt cutting-edge sustainable solutions for their homes, transportation, and gardens. As a unique demonstration site, PLP showcases how energy conserving choices, from electric vehicles to geothermal heating and deep-rooted gardening, can be applied in any lifestyle, to any home, regardless of its age. This hands-on classroom offers an immersive learning experience that helps people understand and implement sustainable practices in daily life.

To ensure PLP continues to serve as a beacon of eco-conscious living, we are seeking support to address critical maintenance and upgrades. Your investment ensures that this vital resource continues to educate and empower the Kansas City community for years to come, providing inspiration for greener, more energy-efficient lifestyles all over our region.

Moth on Echinacea Flower in PLP Gardens

2025 Renovations – Funding Priorities

Our $151,000 goal is divided into three major areas of focus: maintenance and repairs, equipment and appliance upgrades, and interior space optimization. Below is the breakdown of the necessary projects:

1. Critical Maintenance and Repairs - $54,000

These structural upgrades will ensure the safety and functionality of the property, allowing PLP to continue to operate and host educational tours:

Roof and Gutter Replacement ($15,000): Replace aging roof and gutters to prevent further water damage.
Chimney Maintenance ($10,000): Tuck pointing, water sealing, and installing chimney caps to address deterioration.
Exterior and Yard Improvements ($20,000): Includes tree trimming, yard cleanup, replacing side rails and patio timbers, and maintaining walkways and downspouts.
Deck Repair ($9,000): Replace rotting railings and floorboards to restore safety and usability for event guests.

2. Equipment and Appliance Upgrades - $75,000

To continue demonstrating the latest in energy efficiency, PLP requires essential upgrades to its energy systems and demonstration equipment:

HVAC and Water Heating ($30,000): Update the geothermal heating and cooling system, repair passive solar air heating, and upgrade the water heating system.
Electrical System Overhaul ($20,000): Upgrade the electric fuse box and fix malfunctioning lighting systems, including kitchen lights, living room spotlights, and bathroom fixtures.
Sustainability Demonstrations ($25,000): Repair and replace outdated solar panels, EV charging station, and passive solar systems. Install updated signage for educational demonstrations of sustainable technologies.

3. Interior Space Optimization and Event Enhancements - $22,000

Improving the functionality of PLP as a space for community education and events is key to its long-term success:

Event Space Setup ($12,000): Optimize the 1st floor and boardroom spaces to host workshops, tours, and community events.
Interior and Garden Lighting Updates ($5,000): Upgrade lighting fixtures to LED for better energy efficiency and aesthetics, and add garden lighting to enhance evening events.
Event Signage and Display Enhancements ($5,000): Update event and educational displays, signage for Missouri Extension Garden, and create interactive spaces for guests.

Total Funding Need: $151,000

These critical renovations will allow Project Living Proof to continue educating the Kansas City community on the importance of energy-efficient living, making sustainable practices tangible and accessible for all. By supporting these upgrades, you help secure the future of PLP as a premier demonstration site, empowering individuals and families to make eco-friendly changes in their homes and lives. Become a leader of this initiative today.

Rewards for the Cornerstone Champion (Giving $30,000+)

One exclusive opportunity available
Name displayed (logo optional) on a wall-mounted plaque in the home for a major project area of your choice
Prominent name placement (logo optional) on event signage, event programs, and on the Project Living Proof page at metroenergy.org
Feature article displaying name (logo optional) in both of MEC’s business network newsletters
Prominent named recognition (logo optional) in the announcement of support, released to the press and appearing in both of MEC’s business network newsletters from January through June
10 VIP registration codes to any MEC event hosted at Project Living Proof
Attend a private tour and dinner with MEC’s Executive Director and Board President, accompanied by a guest of your choice
Bring up to 4 guests at a separate VIP tour event of the demonstration home
Invitation +7 to the donors-only open house event, with presenting opportunity
Full payment of gift due January 31, 2025

Rewards for the Visionary Builder (Giving $20,000-$29,999)

Two exclusive opportunities available
Name displayed (logo optional) on a wall-mounted plaque in the home for a major project area of your choice
Name placement (logo optional) on event signage, event programs, and on the Project Living Proof page at metroenergy.org
Named recognition (logo optional) in the announcement of support, released to the press and appearing in both of MEC’s business network newsletters January through June
6 VIP registration codes redeemable at any of MEC’s educational events hosted at Project Living Proof
Bring up to 2 guests to a VIP tour event of the demonstration home
Invitation +5 to the donors-only open house event, with presenting opportunity
Full payment of gift due January 31, 2025

Rewards for the Pioneering Sustainer (Giving $10,000-$19,999)

Two exclusive opportunities available
Name displayed (logo optional) on a wall-mounted plaque in the home for a major project area of your choice
Name placement (logo optional) on event signage, event programs, and on the Project Living Proof page at metroenergy.org
Named recognition (logo optional) in the announcement of support, released to the press and appearing in both of MEC’s business network newsletters from April through June
4 VIP registration codes redeemable at any of MEC’s educational events hosted at Project Living Proof
Bring a guest to the VIP tour event of the demonstration home
Invitation +5 to the donors-only open house event
Full payment of gift due February 28, 2025

Join Us in Transforming the Future of Sustainable Living

Your support helps ensure that PLP remains an active, accessible resource for sustainable living, energy efficiency education, and environmental stewardship. Together, we can demonstrate that sustainability is achievable for everyone.

Metropolitan Energy Center

Creating resource efficiency, environmental health, and economic vitality in Kansas City and beyond. See more at www.metroenergy.org

Support sustainable futures today.

Sustain and Inspire: Project Living Proof 2025 Renovations

By Metropolitan Energy Center, Inc.

Sustain and Inspire: Project Living Proof 2025 Renovations

Where cutting-edge sustainability meets home inspiration—join the transformation.