The comments about Unity Place came gradually. “I can’t hear what they’re saying.” “This chair is uncomfortable.” “The lighting isn’t good.” “How long has that carpet been here?”
As they increased, the Rev. Bob Symanski, director of spiritual life at Piedmont Crossing, began to think about improvements to boost the usability and comfort of the community’s main gathering space.
Consulting with the Rev. Dr. Thad Austin, the EveryAge Foundation’s vice-president of philanthropy, he presented a wish list, and the two began to plan for a robust renovation and a campaign to finance it.
They looked to residents, families, staff, partners, vendors, Board members, and organizations for support and tapped into the Foundation’s funds for campus enrichment and spiritual life. The interest and the generosity were there, and in short order, wishes became project plans, and the work began.
On Tuesday, April 15, 2025, Piedmont Crossing hosted a service of rededication for Unity Place, showing off its upgrades and opening it once again for events and activities.
Artisan Barry Weaver crafted the new furniture.
New carpeting and luxury vinyl plank floors increased the space’s versatility, while fresh paint measurably brightened the space. A reconceived lighting plan was installed, along with acoustical panels and ceiling tiles to make high and low tones more audible. A brand-new sound system was installed and was supplemented with individual headsets. Upholstered, wood-framed armchairs were brought in, featuring casters for easier mobility. Accent walls of cultured stone added visual interest, and a suite of handmade furniture was commissioned from a local wood artisan, who used organic shapes and live-edge details for impact. These pieces include an altar, pulpit/podium, console, and a handful of small, all-purpose tables.
The rededication service began with a welcome from executive director Jan Purdy-Gray and an invocation from Marcia Hoffmann, president of the Residents Association. Lee Syria, president and CEO of EveryAge, the parent organization of Piedmont Crossing, thanked donors and other guests and gathered attendees for the ribbon-cutting, marking the premiere of the new space.
Afterwards, the Rev. Dr. Thad Austin spoke about the value of a gathering place and the people who bring it to life. Then, the Rev. Bob Symanski (who served as the project’s unofficial general contractor!) shared details about the improvements that were made and pointed out how they’ll change the ways that Unity Place is used and enjoyed.
Finally, the Rev. Dr. Ken Clapp, vice-chair of the EveryAge Foundation Board, led the litany of rededication, and the Rev. Brad Thie, chair of the EveryAge Board, provided a benediction and an invitation to fellowship.
Following the service, attendees gathered over pastries to remark on the dramatic changes in the space and to communicate their pleasure with the entire renovation. They were eager to make the gathering room the centerpiece of life enrichment and resident engagement once again.
In fact, the delight residents felt at having Unity Place reinvigorated was palpable, and their pride in what they made happen was pronounced. While the space is undoubtedly beautiful and more user-friendly than ever before, the true benefit of the renovation lies in welcoming guests to campus, coming together with friends and neighbors, and seeing a dream transformed into reality through hope, effort, and joyful collaboration.
*Featured photo: (l-r) Aimee Reimann, chief operating officer at EveryAge; the Rev. Bob Symanski, director of spiritual life at Piedmont Crossing; Lee Syria, president and CEO of EveryAge; the Rev. Dr. Thad Austin, vice-president of philanthropy at the EveryAge Foundation; the Rev. Dr. Ken Clapp, vice-chair of the EveryAge Foundation Board; the Rev. Brad Thie, Board chair of EveryAge; and Jan Purdy-Gray, executive director of Piedmont Crossing.