Elise Spontarelli -
Written by Savannah Hicks, SHARE Greater Lynchburg Communications Intern
Vector Space has forged a new collaboration with Big Brother Big Sisters for the BYO—Build Your Own program. BYO engages high school students and mentors from BWX Technologies, meeting twice per week thoughout the summer, to create something from scratch. The challenge is to create something that encourages the community. The end result will be a 12-foot tall Adirondack chair to invite the entire Lynchburg community to come, sit, snap a picture, and feel at home.
“I want this structure to represent more than just a comical chair—I want it to be an attraction that reflects pride in Lynchburg.” —Elise Spontarelli, Vector Space Executive Director
With invaluable input from mentors and woodworking instructors, students are working to turn a simple concept into a beautiful beacon that celebrates the impact of young hands molding a stronger, more connected Lynchburg. Dre, a rising senior at E.C. Glass, says, “This program is perfect for kids who feel lost. I feel like I’ve learned so many truly important skills.” His statement is proof that when we invest in youth, we’re not just building structures—we’re building determination, tenacity, and courage to keep learning.
Three weeks into the project, the chair is still a work in progress. Each cut, dimension, and drawing is full of energy and possibility. It becomes a place of learning, and the realized potential of time together. There is an authenticity in the making-- in the showing up and learning and making something together that will soon speak for itself. After reflective conve
rsation regarding the chair’s size, blueprint, and general power, the group went on two field trips to support inspiring their plans. Their first stop was at the nonprofit Roads to Recovery, where they contemplated community and strength firsthand. Next, they visited the Aviary at Miller Park, a cherished local place known for its scenic beauty and as a popular wedding location. These trips provided the young builders with a clarified view of how their project could fit into our community and contribute to Lynchburg’s heart.
While the final placement of the structure is still being deliberated, one student shared what genuinely matters most: “For as many Lynchburg citizens as possible to have a seat at the table.” This sincere goal perfectly reflects the mission behind the program collaborators. While hosted at Vector Space, this program has support from throughout the community, includuing partners at Big Brothers Big Sisters, LAYSi, and financial supporters BWX Technologies and Mustaches4Kids Lynchburg. Together these partners are invested forging long-lasting connections, empowering youth, and building spaces where everyone belongs. That is, after all, the Lynchburg way.
