PMA Architecture Attends the 31st Annual CSB Thanksgiving Luncheon

PMA Architecture was one of the sponsors for the Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board’s 31st Annual Thanksgiving Luncheon on Thursday, November 17, 2022 at the Newport News Marriott Hotel in City Center. Our team attended this annual luncheon learning more about their mission.

PMA is providing full-service architecture and interior design services for the renovation of the Community Service Board (CSB’s) Crisis Receiving Center located in Hampton, Virginia and is expected to be completed in 2024.

Over 300 guests were in attendance at the luncheon, including Philip Jones, the Mayor Elect for Newport News. “Uplift defines the CSB,” said Jones. “Uplift as you help individuals find their own strengths and determine their own destiny.”

For over 51 years, the CSB has provided behavioral healthcare services to individuals on the Peninsula who are affected by mental illness, developmental disabilities and substance use disorders. Each year, the CSB serves more than 11,000 children and adults from Hampton and Newport News.

“Our programs have directly contributed to the enhancement of the quality of life on the Peninsula,” said Daphne Cunningham, Deputy Executive Director, Hampton-Newport News CSB. “We were excited to celebrate our 50^th anniversary last year and we hope to continue serving this community and working with all of you for the next 50 years.”

The keynote speaker, M. Darrell Williams, President of Hampton University, discussed the impact of the CSB’s work on the Peninsula and within the Hampton-Newport News community. “We are witnessing unprecedented social challenges in our community and in our nation,” said Williams. “The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that 6.5 million Americans have intellectual and developmental disabilities, which includes 17% of children ages three through seventeen.”

Williams went on to say that mental illness and disabilities affecting Americans is something that cannot be ignored. “Thanks to the dedicated, committed and lifechanging work done by the CSB and other organizations like it, all people on the Peninsula and in Hampton Roads have a safe place to turn to.” Williams thanked and acknowledged the CSB board and staff for their “tireless labor of love” to serve the community.

Furthermore, Williams addressed the critical role the CSB plays in helping those who are struggling with disorders during the holiday season. “If it were not for organizations like the CSB, many would experience even greater challenges during this special time of year.”

In closing, Natalie Christian, Executive Director, Hampton-Newport News CSB, thanked the CSB leadership team, along with the sponsors of the luncheon event. “Thank you for breaking bread with us this afternoon. We look forward to seeing you at the same time next year.”

Pictured from left to right: Jared Biagas, Mark Turner Construction; Dr. Jennifer Parish, Peake Childhood Center; and Katie Stodghill, PMA Architecture.

Staff from PMA Architecture pictured from left to right: Erin Coleman, Architectural Designer; Cara Adams, Interior Designer; Katie Stodghill, Principal; and Ann Venne, Finance Manager.