Help Save Iconic Steeple of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Athens, Ga.

The steeple of St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Athens, Ga. -- where R.E.M. played their very first gig in 1980 -- has been at risk of being demolished for the past three years. However, Nuci's Space, along with the alt-rock band and other local big name acts, are trying to raise funds in order to keep the musical landmark standing.

Nuci's Space, which is an Athens-based suicide prevention organization, has started an IndieGoGo campaign to raise money to renovate and restore the iconic structure as well as funds to continue their programs for local musicians that include physical and mental health care and practice spaces. Not only is the steeple named one of the Rolling Stone magazine's 'Music Landmark Attractions,' but it's also based in the city where many big acts have started, including Neutral Milk Hotel, Drive-By Truckers and Of Montreal.

The actual church was torn down in 1990 to make space for condos, and "the remaining steeple stood unprotected and ignored till 2013 when the Homeowners Association transferred ownership to [Nuci's Space]," Dave Schools of Widespread Panic said in a video in support of the IndieGoGo campaign.

Launching today (Nov. 3), the 'Reconstruction of the Steeple' campaign has so far raised over $28,000 of its $250,000 goal -- which they are hoping to hit by Dec. 13. And while they're trying to push their cause, those who donate will also be receive special rewards from there favorite Athens' artists.

For more information on how you can help save the steeple, you can visit the Nuci's Space IndieGoGo page.

Find Out More About the 'Reconstruction of the Steeple' Campaign