Community News | Development Projects | Green Ridge Village
Residents, team members and PSL Leadership gathered May 7 to celebrate the dedication of the Ellen Parker Pavilion at Green Ridge Village, Newville, PA. This exciting new addition to Green Ridge Village provides a new space for outdoor activities for years to come.
The Vision
The project began with the vision of one donor who believed deeply in creating a place where people could come together, share experiences, and build connections. Their inspiration planted the seed, and, thanks to the incredible generosity of so many others, that vision has taken root and flourished.
The initial push for the project came through an anonymous gift designated to build an outdoor space available for all residents in the community. To build on the initial donation, residents pooled resources and created an additional dollar-for-dollar match. The GRV Auxiliary also offered a match to complete the campaign.
Planning and Development
After the initial funding, a focus group of residents was organized to determine the project scope and outline. This group decided on an outdoor pavilion and recommended locating it in front of both Ridge Hall and Swaim Hall. This location serves residents at all levels of living.
Janet Polark, president of the Independent Living Residents' Association at the time of the fundraising, said, "We have been able to purchase furniture plus connect electricity for lighting and ceiling fans. We have round tables, chairs and a game table. As the years go on, we plan to add more accessories to the structure."
Honoring Ellen Parker's Legacy
The pavilion was named in memory of Ellen Parker, who was instrumental in starting the corporation that eventually became Presbyterian Senior Living. She was the philanthropic woman who made it all possible with the donation of her land that would become Green Ridge Village. It is fitting that the current residents honored her in this way.
In his remarks, PSL CEO/President Dan Davis noted, "Ellen Parker was the driving force in turning an idea into a thriving community for many. Her generosity helped nine women right here in Newville in 1928, and now PSL helps more than 6,000 older adults in 27 locations across four states.
"Ellen Parker didn't just give money. She gave her time and her energy in what she believed in. She helped in every way she could.
"Her story hasn't ended. Her story lives on each day with you."
Community Impact
The Parker Pavilion will be used year-round and is a welcome addition to the Green Ridge Village community. Fellowship and friendship are hallmarks of Green Ridge Village, and the pavilion provides another space to gather to play games, to grill, or to simply enjoy each other's company.
With much appreciation, Janet expressed, "We are forever thankful for the original anonymous donation and for our fundraiser to create the Ellen Parker Pavilion, honoring her legacy. We will be 100 years old in 2027, and now we have a place for everyone."
We look forward to the many memories to be made here — brass band concerts, root beer floats, gatherings, celebrations, and simple moments of friendship and connection. Many joyful moments and beautiful memories are on the horizon because of the generosity of the residents and community at Green Ridge Village.