Restoration, Preservation & Public Use Restoration of The Mansion began in 2004 with money from state grants that was used to restore the original configuration of The Mansion by removing added wings and restoring the roof. With funds provided by a voter-supported referendum, completion of the restoration of The Mansion began in September, 2008 and is currently underway. Although the County has the funds to complete the restoration, and public usage fees are expected to cover the operating expenses and make The Mansion a self-sustaining facility, there are many necessities and enhancements that are not funded, such as furniture, window treatments, trams for transportation and many other items. To provide the necessities and enhancements, The Friends of Mount Elizabeth will continue to work with Martin County and raise funds for this purpose. The funds raised by FOME through private donations, grants and endowments will also:      Provide additional enhancements to improve the publics’ experience.      Maintain the enhancements provided.      Ensure ongoing projects for The Mansion.      Develop educational programs intended to promote stewardship of The Mansion.      Sustain continuous private and corporate philanthropic outreach for funding. Education Opportunities Once restoration efforts are complete, it is the intention of The Friends of Mount Elizabeth to ensure that the facility will offer a variety of learning opportunities, including symposia and forums, lectures, workshops, tours, student field trips and other viable educational experiences for diverse audiences.