High Point, NC --It's been around for 141 years, and now the Washington St. First Baptist Church in High Point needs the community's help to stay open.

The church is a historic piece of High Point and the state. Not only is it High Point's oldest African-American congregation, but it played a major role in the civil rights movement.

Now, with crumbling walls and a dwindling congregation, the church is in need of a renovation.

Pastor Michael Robinson says estimates show it will cost $275,000 in all.

So, the church is reaching out to the community for donations.

A group of advisers, including High Point University President Nido Qubein, is helping the church as well.

Be sure to tune into WFMY News 2 at 11 for more on this story.  

WFMY News 2