Space Makers

Team members: Liz Bergeron, Clinton Colmenares, Reno Deaton, Twana Drummond, Ken Gibson, Carol McEntyre, Eric Wall, Tammy Walters

Space Makers began with a shared commitment to support individuals and families experiencing scarcity in Greenville, SC by renovating the Family Room at the United Ministries Puckett Center for Economic Mobility.  This space is crucial for providing a welcoming, functional environment where individuals and families can access support, resources, and a sense of community. The “Family Room Reno” project transformed this vital community space by furnishing, structuring, and stocking the room to enhance its functionality and comfort for all ages. The new space now includes refreshments, a computer area, TV, children’s activity space and storage, and comfortable furniture for all to use.

At the heart of this effort was the recognition that providing access to basic services, resources, and a sense of community can make all the difference for those navigating difficult circumstances. Many of the individuals who utilize this space have been marginalized by systems beyond their control, and have unique strengths and resilience that contribute to the richness of our community. This renovation provides a space that offers an opportunity for empowerment, a means to overcome systemic barriers and move toward a more stable future, and a chance to contribute to the community.  

The “Family Room Reno” project sought to build on the current efforts of participants in Leadership Greenville, who are partnering with United Way to renovate a crucial laundry area at this United Ministries location, which will offer essential laundry services and personal hygiene facilities to those experiencing homelessness. The Family Room renovation created a more accessible space where families can gather, children can play and learn, and adults can utilize resources for employment, education, and community connection.

The goal of this project was to transform the space into a vibrant, multi-functional environment that is welcoming and comfortable for all ages. The design focused on three key areas: enhancing the functionality of the space, improving its comfort, and making it adaptable for a variety of needs. The space was divided into several zones, including a family meeting area, a teen study and chill zone, and a kids’ play corner. The design included warm and inviting decor, comfortable seating, and essential amenities like computers for job searching, educational materials, and a quiet space for studying or meetings, as well as mailboxes for personal use. 

The project was made possible through the collaborative efforts of key partners. Young Office Furniture generously offered to provide furniture and design support, helping to create a comfortable and functional environment. The staff at United Ministries also played an instrumental role in the renovation, offering their expertise and insights into the needs of the community. Additionally, a Facebook Marketplace seller generously supported the mission by offering a significant discount on the mailboxes needed for the space. Together, these partners helped to ensure the success of this important project.

The “Family Room Reno” is not just a renovation project—it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and families facing housing challenges in Greenville. Through thoughtful design, strategic fundraising, and the support of generous partners like Young Office Furniture and United Ministries, this project helped create a space where families can feel supported, children can learn and play, and adults can access the resources they need to move toward more stability. This renovation represents a commitment to the community and to helping those who are unhoused or experiencing financial hardship rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.

This project furthers United Ministries’ mission to support individuals and families facing housing insecurity in Greenville.  Through their various programs, including emergency housing assistance, employment training, and case management services, United Ministries works to provide people with the resources they need to regain stability and self-sufficiency. The Family Room at 503 Vardry Street serves as an extension of these efforts, providing a space where individuals can access the support and resources they need to improve their quality of life. For more information on United Ministries and its housing services, visit United Ministries Housing Services.