View the Groundbreaking Ceremony photo album here. (Photography by Studio Plaxco & Company)

Covenant Village celebrated a momentous groundbreaking event on Thursday, July 18, 2024, on the grounds of the community’s 54 acres. The groundbreaking marked the first major renovations since 2002, the first new residences since 1996, and the commencement of several transformative projects integral to the community’s Master Plan for the next five to ten years.

Not even the storm that arrived halfway through the ceremony, moving the standing-room-only crowd indoors, could dampen the excitement of the historic event.

Nancy Paschall, Attorney at Mullen Holland & Cooper and Chair of the Covenant Village Board of Directors, expressed immense pride and gratitude as she welcomed honored guests, including local and state officials, current and past board members, the Covenant Village leadership and staff, residents’ families, and friends of Covenant Village.

“Most importantly, I extend a warm welcome to our current residents, whose vibrancy and wisdom enrich our community each day, and to our future residents, for whom we are committed to providing a thriving and nurturing environment,” she said.

In her remarks, Ms. Paschall highlighted the need for innovation in healthcare, technology, and overall well-being. She illustrated how Covenant Village is prepared to meet the needs of older adults.

“The senior living industry is at a crossroads as it prepares for the rising cost of healthcare, continued workforce challenges, and the evolving needs of the incoming generation of older adults.

“As the premier continuing care retirement community in the Gaston region, Covenant Village is well-positioned for these challenges and opportunities.  With a strong vision for preserving our place as a valued community partner and leader in the senior living industry, we are poised for strategic and purposeful growth that will fortify options —  for seniors who want to age well and for an industry workforce that longs to invest in a legacy of service.

The groundbreaking event was filled with moments of recognition, historical reflections, prayer, and humor, especially as Dale Melton, CEO of Covenant Village, urged attendees to pinch their neighbors softly and gently, questioning the reality of the long-awaited kick-off to the Master Plan, which has been four years in the making. This lighthearted moment served as a reminder of the anticipation and eagerness that had built up over the years leading to this significant day.

In his remarks, Dale Melton included a roll call of the talented professionals and companies that have collaborated on Covenant Village’s vision and goals and will bring them to reality over the next 18 to 24 months. Among the notable professionals, Mr. Melton acknowledged representatives from Frank L. Blum Construction Company, CJMW Architecture, Stimmel Associates, HJ Sims, and WellPointe Advisors.

“Their creative, discerning, and strategic contributions helped craft the Master Plan projects that we celebrate today, signifying a new chapter for Covenant Village while honoring its rich legacy,” said Mr. Melton, emphasizing the historical importance of the groundbreaking.

Recalling the names of the original planning committee that met in the late 1970s, the eleven faith communities who provided financial and prayerful support, and the retirement community’s first Board members, Dale Melton said, “The generous support from local churches and the wider community has been instrumental in shaping Covenant Village, showcasing the power of community and shared purpose.”

Covenant Village is investing $39 million into a multi-phased Master Plan to enhance its infrastructure and amenities over the next three to five years. Commercial Bank of Harrogate, Tennessee, is the financial partner for the Master Plan.

“From the beginning, we knew they would be a transformative colleague at this moment in our Village’s Life.  From a position of faith, integrity, and collaboration, we are excited to move forward together with Commercial Bank,” expressed Mr. Melton as he introduced the bank’s representatives:

• Terry L. Lee, Chairman of the Board, Commercial Bank of Harrogate, TN
• Charles Yates, Board Member, Commercial Bank
• Melissa Sage, Executive Vice President, Senior Commercial Lending Officer
• Rick Sprinkle, Executive Vice President, Chief Credit Officer
• Steve Huffstetler, Senior Vice President, Commercial Lender

Completed projects in the multi-phased Master Plan include renovations to the existing cottage exteriors and several apartments into concierge assistance apartments now known as Founders Hall.  The next phase of projects that will begin immediately include, if not already complete:

• The renovation of “Main Street” amenities such as the main dining room, bar and lounge, and the library
• Front entrance retention wall restoration and campus signage
• A new outdoor pavilion
• New employee parking and enhanced parking with a circular drive behind the resident apartments
• A more efficient service lane, and
• 21 new residential Stonecrest Villas

“These initiatives aim to uphold Covenant Village’s commitment to providing the highest quality of life for its residents and reinforce our position as a leader in the senior living industry,” Dale Melton said.

The groundbreaking at Covenant Village was more than a ceremonial occasion. Prayers of dedication by former chaplain Rev. Dr. Joan Martin and current chaplain Rev. Marisa Cowgill and testimonials by current resident and Board member Frances Crockett and future resident Bill Napier symbolized the perseverance, collaboration, and visionary spirit that have defined the community over four decades.

Presenters described the event as a tribute to the remarkable journey that has led Covenant Village to become a beacon of excellence in senior living. It provided Covenant Village, its leaders, residents, staff, and friends, a moment of rededication to the legacy of those who envisioned Covenant Village. It signified the beginning of an exciting new chapter, filled with hope, possibilities, and the promise of a vibrant and thriving future for the community and its residents.

“Today, you are witnesses to the future of Covenant Village. In the years to come, we will continue to uphold our long-held values and ensure that Covenant Village remains a place where individuals can thrive, find peace of mind, and build enduring connections.”