05/19/2026
https://martinsvillebulletin.com/news/local/business/article_fa4f1132-0edf-41b0-a9c4-d33e740b2a44.html
First Presbyterian Church of Martinsville has transformed its former educational wing into a Community Office Wing, creating a new resource for small businesses, nonprofits and professional services.
The church, located at 1901 Patrick Henry Ave., recently completed the renovation as part of an effort to better utilize space that had gone largely unused in recent years.
“This project is an innovative use of first-class space by a church, which, like many others, has experienced a decline in usage since the pandemic,” the church said in a statement.
Committee Chair Anne Madonia said the idea originated about three years ago when church leaders began discussing how to repurpose the vacant area.
“About three years ago, we started a think tank,” Madonia said. “We had this space sitting vacant, so we decided to renovate it, bring it up to code, and separate it from the rest of the church with a firewall.”
The renovated wing is located in a neighborhood across from Patrick Henry Elementary School and is intended to serve as both a community asset and a potential source of additional income for the church, consistent with its broader mission of community support.
“We wanted it to be both a service to the community and, hopefully, a revenue stream for the church,” Madonia said.
“We wanted it to be both a service to the community and, hopefully, a revenue stream for the church,” Madonia said.
The office wing began operations last month and already houses several tenants. Current occupants include CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), Oakstone Health and Nutrition, and a company specializing in medication transportation. An independent daycare operates on the lower level.
“We just started this April 1, so we’re doing pretty well,” Madonia said.
Seven office spaces remain available. Rental rates are set at $1 per square foot, plus a small utility fee.
The facility is designed for a range of uses, including administrative offices, therapy services, and nonprofit organizations. Shared amenities include a conference room and a breakroom with a refrigerator and microwave. Each suite has a secure entrance and is individually locked, and the building is ADA-compliant.
A church brochure describes the setting as quiet and confidential, with the church serving as a nearby neighbor.
The project reflects a broader trend among congregations adapting underused space for community purposes. Founded in 1854, First Presbyterian has long emphasized service beyond its congregation, and leaders say the new office wing continues that tradition while helping meet local demand for affordable, flexible workspace.
First Presbyterian Church of Martinsville has transformed its former educational wing into a Community Office Wing, creating a new resource for small businesses, nonprofits and professional services.
