The paperwork is now completed and the work begins!

The Sky Valley Arts Council is pleased to announce their intention to restore the historic Startup Gym and put it back into community service as an event center. The Startup Gym has a colorful, story filled history beginning with its construction in 1937. George Startup, owner of a local saw mill, donated all of the wood used in the construction and community volunteers built this very sturdy building. According to locals the only thing that was hired out during the construction was a company to set the roof beams. Arts Council President Mary Ritzman said “The Sky Valley Arts Council plans to continue this proud Sky Valley tradition by using local volunteer talent to restore the building to its former glory. We are currently raising money to buy the materials we will need to restore the building.”  

The Sultan School District owns the property but due to budget constraints and the fact that the property doesn’t work programmatically for them the building has been neglected for many years. The Arts Council and the School District worked together to come up with a plan to save this important historic asset for future generations to enjoy.

According to project manager, Debbie Copple, the number one priority is a new roof and gutter system. Followed closely by repairing/replacing siding, painting, plumbing, repairing the rain damage in the kitchen area, renovating the kitchen, kitchen flooring, etc.

We need your help!

Click here to donate money . You may also stop by the Sky Valley Visitor Center in Sultan or mail to Sky Valley Arts Council, PO Box 18, Sultan, WA 98294   All donations are tax deductible!

To volunteer time or materials complete the form below or call Debbie Copple at 425-238-2651 for more information on how you can help.