On September 25, People’s Settlement Association (PSA) officially celebrated the completion of its newly renovated and expanded community center with a ribbon cutting on Wilmington’s East Side.
Founded in 1901, PSA has served generations of Wilmington residents, providing programs, resources and support for children, families, and seniors. The transformation of its longtime home creates a modern, welcoming space designed to help that mission continue for generations to come.
The project included an extensive renovation of the existing building along with a new gymnasium and connector addition. Improvements included new classrooms, program and daycare spaces, offices, upgraded accessibility, and significant mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and water-system upgrades. The project combined conventional construction with a Butler pre-engineered building system to create a facility that balanced functionality, flexibility, and PSA’s nonprofit budget.
But the ribbon cutting was about much more than a building.
Throughout the celebration, speakers shared personal stories of participating in programs at People’s Settlement as children and growing up with PSA as part of their lives — a powerful reminder of the organization’s longstanding impact on the East Side community.
We were grateful to celebrate alongside PSA Executive Director Mrs. Sandra Ballard, State Senator Darius Brown and Wilmington Mayor John Carney, among the many community leaders, supporters, families, neighbors, and fellow contractors who helped make the day possible.
A special thank you also goes to the talented seventh- and eighth-grade band from The Bayard School for helping make the celebration even more memorable.
EDiS is grateful to have played a part in creating a renewed home for an organization that has meant so much to Wilmington for more than a century. We look forward to seeing the programs, connections and memories that will fill these spaces in the years ahead.
Photo credit: Emir Lake Photography
