ATHENS — Efforts are being made to restore the old church where R.E.M. had its first show.

Last year, the nonprofit Nuci’s Space launched a 60-day crowdfunding campaign aimed at restoring the steeple.

In 2013, Nuci’s Space acquired the steeple from its previous owners, Steeplechase Condominiums. 

The executive director of the nonprofit says there have been no surprises so far, but they have found a raccoon living in the structure.