“The SBDC helped us think strategically about the future of our company and provided valuable support as we worked through the ownership transition — their guidance helped us build a stronger foundation for continued growth.”
Strong businesses don’t just grow; they strengthen the communities around them. Founded in 1989, The Gaines Group Architects has long been recognized for its commitment to thoughtful design, sustainability, and community-centered projects. As Charles Hendricks stepped into ownership as president and majority owner, he focused on preserving the firm’s values while preparing the company for future growth.
Driven by a desire to create a greater impact through his work, Charles pursued further education in building science and sustainability at the University of Tennessee. The experience shaped his approach to architecture and helped him understand how “thoughtful design can benefit not only individual clients, but entire communities.”
With support from the Shenandoah Valley SBDC, Charles strengthened the firm’s business operations and explored new opportunities to expand its reach, including projects throughout North Carolina.
“The SBDC helped us think strategically about the future of our company and provided valuable support as we worked through the ownership transition,” Charles shared. “Their guidance helped us build a stronger foundation for continued growth.”
One example of this impact came through the City of Harrisonburg’s Business of Childcare Initiative. Working with SBDC business advisor Diane McCarthy, Charles provided architectural expertise to help childcare providers improve and expand their facilities. Through more than $300,000 in pro-bono services, Charles and his team helped create spaces where children, families, and local businesses can thrive.
Diane has seen that impact up close. “Charles and his team are one of my most trusted resources as I work with childcare providers. Charles has met with many providers to evaluate spaces for potential use as a childcare facility. His vast knowledge of how the unique licensing requirements in place for childcare must dovetail with local building code has been invaluable. He has creatively designed spaces for children while being sensitive to the budget constraints faced by childcare providers.”
Today, the impact of The Gaines Group Architects extends far beyond architecture, reaching nonprofits, small businesses, and families throughout the valley region. By combining architectural expertise with a passion for service, The Gaines Group continues to demonstrate how businesses can choose to make a meaningful difference.
The partnership between The Gaines Group Architects and the Shenandoah Valley SBDC shows how small business support can create a ripple effect. When businesses have the tools to grow, they are able to invest back into the communities they serve. For Charles Hendricks and his team, success is measured not only by the buildings they design, but by the people and communities those spaces serve.
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