Over the last year and a half, our building team has been working with the city and our architectural firm to develop the new VOUS South Miami building. As of Monday, July 7th, we have officially signed our construction contract to begin the build-out of our brand-new VOUS South Miami facility.
We will officially break ground on Monday, August 4th. This is a huge milestone and the commencement of our building timeline, which is approximately 24 months.
As we begin construction, our SoMi Sunday location will be moving to South Miami Senior High starting Sunday, August 3rd. Same heart, same community, just a temporary new location as we prepare for all that’s ahead.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support we've received thus far. With faith and trust, we're fully committed to advancing this exciting project together. Thank you for your prayers and contributions thus far!
AUDITORIUM
Designed for encounter
• 1,134 seating capacity
• Advanced visual display
• 17,000 square ft
Our modern state-of-the-art auditorium can comfortably accommodate over 1,000 seats. We have consulted with experienced architects and design professionals to create a blueprint which details the design, layout, and orientation of the space, including features such as the stage, seating, sound system, lighting, and more.
Now, with the finalized construction documents, we are preparing to begin construction, ensuring that the building is constructed to the highest safety and quality standards. This will involve installing soundproofing materials, designing and installing the latest audiovisual technology, and creating a comfortable and inviting seating arrangement. In addition to the auditorium itself, we will create additional amenities including an indoor lobby, a resource corner, and a broadcast control center.
Ultimately, our goal is to create a modern, state-of-the-art auditorium that not only provides a comfortable and engaging space for worship and fellowship, but also serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the wider community. By providing a world-class facility that reflects our commitment to excellence and innovation, we aim to create a place where people can find God and build meaningful connections with each other.
KIDS WING
Interactive spaces for exploration, development, and discipleship
• 9 kids rooms
• 500+ total kids capacity
We have worked with a team of experts to identify the most effective design and layout for the VOUS Kids facility. We have analyzed factors such as age-appropriate play areas, room sizes/shapes, and educational resources that help promote healthy cognitive, emotional, and social development.
In addition to the spaces that we are curating, there will also be a specific auditorium designed for VOUS Kids Legends, ages 5-11, to engage with and encounter God through worship and the word.
By providing a stimulating and engaging environment for children to learn and grow, we aim to cultivate next generation leaders who can positively impact their communities and the world.
PARKING FACILITIES
Expanded Parking Facilities
• 378 parking spaces
• 165,880 square ft
We have conducted a thorough analysis of the property, assessing the existing topography, infrastructure, and zoning requirements, enabling us to develop a comprehensive plan for a new parking lot, including the layout, dimensions, and features such as lighting, signage, and landscaping. We have also worked closely with all applicable state, county, and local authorities to obtain the necessary permits and certifications required.
With the finalized plan, we are ready to engage a team of experienced contractors and engineers to execute the construction work. This will involve grading and leveling the land, laying the foundation, installing drainage and water systems, and paving the surface. During this process, we will ensure that construction is carried out in a manner that minimizes disruption to the surrounding community.
Our goal is to create a new parking lot that is not only functional and safe but also aesthetically pleasing and in harmony with the surrounding environment.
We are estimated to spend $30,000,000 for the successful completion of the new VOUS SoMi location.
To break ground on construction we are estimating $10,000,000. Our total goal amount raised is $15,000,000, in hopes of financing 50% or less of the total investments.
Your participation makes all the difference. No matter the amount, your faithful investment will propel us toward the vision. Brick by brick as we plant, God will water.
Our vision is to create a transformative space on our 7-acre property in South Miami that will serve as a beacon of light for the entire community. Through the creation of a modern, cutting-edge facility, we aspire to build a place where people can come to connect with God, build meaningful relationships, and find purpose and fulfillment in their lives. As we embark on this journey, we are committed to creating a state-of-the-art space that is inclusive, welcoming, and inspiring, for our guests and the generations to come.
Our construction plan is centered around an innovative adaptive re-use project a new beautifully landscaped parking lot, a world-class VOUS Kids wing that is designed to serve a large number of kids, providing a safe and nurturing environment for them to learn and grow, and lastly, a modern, state-of-the-art auditorium that can comfortably accommodate over 1,000 seats.
We will also create additional amenities such as an indoor lobby, a resource corner, a broadcast control center, and more, all of which will provide our members and visitors with a seamless and comfortable experience. At the completion of the project, our new facility will offer an unparalleled worship experience, inspiring and guiding all who come to find meaning and purpose in their lives through Jesus.
We submitted our construction documents and plans to the Department of Environmental Resources Management (DERM), the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW), and the Building Department. Each department reviewed our proposal to ensure it met all relevant regulations and requirements. We received approval from the ERPB board and the county to clear all our final building permits.
We received approval from the City of South Miami ERPB board on December 19, 2023. This entailed submitting a comprehensive site plan with the proposed construction project including architectural drawings, engineering plans, landscaping designs, and more. We also provided details on how we will address any of the project's potential impacts on the surrounding area, such as traffic and photometries. The ERPB reviewed our application and site plan to ensure that it met all applicable zoning, land use, and environmental regulations. This is a significant development in our ability to soon break ground.
Plant a Seed, Lay The Foundation
As we step into the future, we’re grateful for your continued generosity. Your seed sown doesn't just bless the present, it marks the future. Your generous donations propel us forward, creating a place for thousands to encounter Jesus. We ask for your prayerful consideration and partnership in planting a stake in the ground. Become a part of the VOUS SoMi build team today.
We are projecting our current building cost at $32,500,000 with a goal to finance no more than 50%, that’s $16,250,000. Through your radical generosity, we have currently raised $7,481,526 thus far, with an additional need of $8,768,474.
As we look back at the fruit of the past nine years, all we can say is thank you, Jesus. The harvest is here. Farmers don’t hope for a harvest; they plan for one. The fields may change, but the sowing and reaping remain the same. This year, we have an opportunity to plant seeds of faith in fertile soil. As we prepare for this miracle we ask that you prayerfully consider putting your harvest hands to the plow.
All for Jesus,
As we embark on this process, we’re believing God will guide us and lead us through every step. This is his church, his vision, his project, and we will faithfully follow.
We ask that you would join us in prayer as we continue this journey. We are grateful for the opportunity to build the church of Jesus and the small part we get to play in the greater story he is telling. We stand in awe at the miraculous provision thus far. Through every season God has provided, guided, and directed.
As we continue to plant seeds, we trust him with the harvest. We will continue to march forward, with prayer at the forefront.