The Mills Community House has expanded its facilities with the opening of the Mills Hall on the third floor. The space is suitable for receptions, large meetings, and small exhibitions or fairs. A stage accommodates theatrical and musical performances with comfortable, movable seating available for 150 people. Other furnishings available include tables, podium, stage lighting and public address system. Mills Hall is available for rental throughout the year with heating/air-conditioning, an elevator servicing this area and an outdoor stairway for emergencies

With the opening of Mills Hall in early 2008, a number of new programs have been expanded into the additional space. The focus has been on educational opportunities including the Bruce Catton Historical Essay Awards for high school juniors and "Rock Your Future: Stepping Stones to Success", a half-day conference with sessions that help Benzie County high school girls prepare for the future. With additional space available, the Benzie Summer Job Fair has been held that is targeted at high schools students seeking seasonal or part-time jobs.

Mills Hall has also made it possible to again present a variety of concerts, theater performances, and lectures. In collaboration with the Benzie Area Historical Society, the Benzonia Academy Lecture Series brings speakers on a wide range of subjects to the area. The Benzie Players have been able to again bring local theater to the area with the third-floor venue available for rehearsals and public performances. Musical offerings have included folk singers, classical vocalists, and the Chamber Music North Village Series.

The support of a number of donors has made the availability of all three levels of Mills Community House a reality. Endowment and operating funds have been in place for a number of years. made it possible to add elevators, refurbish the meeting space in the lower level, and have tables, chairs, and a fully-equipped kitchen available for community use.

The start of a capital campaign and the establishment of the Mills Renovation Fund brought in several leadership gifts and foundation grants that made the re-opening of the third floor possible. Endowment and operating funds have been in place for a number of years and were used to add elevators; refurbish the meeting space in the lower level; purchase tables and chairs; and fully equip the kitchen for community use. With community input and continued fundraising, minor improvements will become major improvements at the Mills Community House.

To learn more about the Mills House or to offer your input on how this landmark in Benzie County history can continue to serve the community, call 231-882-0591 or email us.