Celebrating our New Backyard & Patio

Two summers ago, the backyard at The Wilson House was in rough shape. The marble patio was buckled and broken, a frog pond had taken over a corner nearby, weeds spread thick near the rock wall that lines the property, and yellow caution tape circled the area to keep visitors away. On the outside of the meeting room, the siding, window sills, and the foundation under the meeting room were rotting and giving way. 

Thanks to this incredible community, that’s all changed. 

In early 2024, we decided to tackle the repairs and renovations needed to bring the backyard back to the oasis it once was. With a hand-drawn vision from volunteer and staff member Liz Williams—one we called our dream of a “refuge for recovery”—we set out to raise the funds. 

That spring, 223 donors stepped up, giving a combined $62,520 to make the vision real. Each gift was an act of faith in this place, and together, we transformed the space. 

By the fall, the project was underway. Volunteers led by our Buildings & Grounds committee Chair Liz Miller dismantled the broken marble patio. Local excavator Mike Connors expertly dug and poured a new foundation under the meeting room. In the spring of 2025, master stoneworker Mike Anderson from Sugarrock Landscapes rebuilt the marble patio. 

Meanwhile, our caretaker, Bob P., created a period-appropriate door, added steps out from the meeting room, replaced siding, painted trim, and installed the donor plaque.

“This space isn’t just renewed—it’s a symbol of what community can do together," said Executive Director Kim Norman. "Everyone who donated their time, talents, and financial support made this transformation happen." 

The renewed backyard of The Wilson House is open to anyone who visits the birthplace and childhood home of Bill W. 

Come to gather, reflect, and feel at home...see you soon.