The steering committee will see the center through the second half of its capital campaign.

LEWISTON – The Franco-American Heritage Center held an open house and launched a $4.5 million campaign to transform the former St. Mary’s Church into a performance hall, learning center and heritage museum two years ago this month. Today it is half way toward that goal and into the construction phases of the facility.

A Steering Committee was formed last month to see the campaign through the second half of its fund-raising efforts. Local professionals will call on the business community, and personal contacts will be made to help raise the necessary funds to finish the project.

“This is an honor for us and we are very proud to have the congressman as our leader and our teammate,” said Rita Dube, center executive director. “He has proven his commitment and belief in the project and was instrumental in helping the center get $1,000,000 in state funding last year.”

“Being a Franco-American himself strengthens his bond and ties with us, and his continued involvement will no doubt bring us continued success in our efforts. Congressman Michaud is the first Franco-American from Maine ever to be elected to serve in Washington and we are hopeful that he will be able to help us on that level as well,” said Lionel Guay, board president.

“It is an honor to serve as honorary chair of the Capital Campaign. This project is vital to the Lewiston-Auburn area and for Franco-Americans around the state,” said Michaud.