The Summit Celebrates Grand Opening of New Memory Support Neighborhood in Lynchburg

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Approximately 150 guests attend ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house marking a significant milestone in the community’s expansion.

LYNCHBURG, VA, November 13, 2026 — The Summit Retirement Community in Lynchburg, VA celebrated the grand opening of its new Memory Support Neighborhood on Thursday, November 12, welcoming approximately 150 guests throughout the afternoon’s ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house.

The celebration brought together residents, families, community leaders, referral partners, LifeSpire of Virginia leadership, and members of the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance to mark an important milestone in expanding specialized memory care services in the Lynchburg region.

The new Memory Support Neighborhood expands the continuum of care available at The Summit, a member of the LifeSpire of Virginia family of nonprofit senior living communities. Through LifeSpire’s Cornerstone Memory Program, the neighborhood will provide specialized support for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, emphasizing dignity, independence, meaningful relationships, and purposeful living.

“Memory loss changes a person’s life, but it does not change their fundamental need to be known, to belong, to have relationships, to experience joy, and to have purpose,” said Jonathan Cook, President & CEO of LifeSpire of Virginia. “That’s what this neighborhood is about, and perhaps the most powerful part of today’s celebration is that what began as a request from residents and team members of The Summit will ultimately serve people far beyond our community.”

Built upon the Small Household model, the Memory Support Neighborhood features four dedicated wings accommodating up to five residents each. The intimate setting is designed to foster meaningful connections and individualized attention while offering private suites, shared living, dining and kitchen spaces, and a secure outdoor courtyard.

“Today we celebrate more than the opening of a beautiful new Memory Support Neighborhood,” said Kristi Martin, Executive Director of The Summit. “We celebrate a place where every individual is valued, every moment matters, and families can find comfort in knowing their loved ones are surrounded by compassionate care. It is our privilege to officially open this new chapter of memory support here at The Summit.”

LifeSpire’s Cornerstone Memory Program is guided by principles that emphasize specially trained team members, personalized life stories, meaningful relationships, family engagement, ability-focused care, and opportunities for faith, wellness, and community.

The opening represents another major milestone in The Summit’s ongoing campus expansion. Additional projects include the 30,000-square-foot Blue Ridge Commons, featuring wellness, fitness, and dining amenities, along with four new hybrid home buildings designed to meet the evolving needs of older adults in the Lynchburg region.

B-Roll and Event Photography Available

Footage and photographs from the November 12 grand opening, ribbon-cutting ceremony, and tours of the new Memory Support Neighborhood are available for media use:

Memory Support Neighborhood B-Roll

Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting B-Roll

Grand Opening Event Photography

Media Contact
Brenda Dixon | Director of Sales and Marketing
The Summit Retirement Community
[email protected] | (434) 333-2109
summitlynchburg.org

About The Summit

Located in the heart of Lynchburg, Virginia, The Summit is a nonprofit Life Plan Community offering independent living, assisted living, and memory support. As part of the LifeSpire of Virginia family of nonprofit senior living communities, The Summit is committed to providing exceptional services, meaningful experiences, and a welcoming environment where older adults can thrive. To learn more, visit summitlynchburg.org.