In 1965, a group of local Baptist Churches came together and incorporated Spokane Baptist Association Homes (SBAH). They sought funding in 1968 to start construction on Lilac Plaza, which was completed in 1972. The original governing Board was comprised of members of the sponsoring churches. In 1997 Lilac Plaza was completely refurbished, adding the sprinkler system, and adding additional space for offices and meetings. Lilac is a HUD 202 facility with 175 retirement units.  100 units are section 8, and the remainder are 236 Cap. Lilac Plaza has a mandatory evening meal program to provide a nutritious meal to their low-income residents, with restaurant-style dining.

 The mission of SBAH/Lilac Plaza is to provide affordable housing and services to the elderly of the Inland Northwest.  This is accomplished through facilities, community partnerships and services.

There are a variety of activities available for residents at Lilac Plaza, including worship service, card games, exercise classes, crafts, bingo and shopping trips. They also have special events such as the annual Anniversary Dinner, Mother’s Day Luncheon, Men’s Barbeque, Christmas Brunch and tree trimming, and a Pancake Breakfast, that is also open to the community and serves as a fundraiser. Lilac Plaza has a computer center with 10 computers networked to the internet. They offer access and classes to both the residents and the community. As part of their community focus, Lilac opens their chapel to other faiths to use for religious services, and allows the Spokane Regional Health District to use their facilities for various workshops and community meetings.

The residents at Lilac Plaza have a residents’ assembly that worked toward raising funds to purchase a handicapped accessible bus with a wheelchair lift in 2004. They hold raffles and bazaars, and proceeds from their Treasure Nook Thrift Store are donated. They have a mini-mart, craft department and wood shop. There are 26-28 raised garden boxes and some ground level spots for those interested gardeners.

Lilac Plaza has an RN serving as their part-time Wellness Coordinator to provide blood pressure checks, medication assistance, foot care, education, and help in coordinating doctor visits. They have a full-time Service Coordinator funded by a HUD grant.

When asked what it means to be a nonprofit organization, CEO Glen Pierce, said, “it allows us to focus more on our mission and helps keep our residents at the center of our attention”.  “In addition, being faith-based helps open the door to many of our churches in the community and the various services that they can offer our residents”.

Lilac Plaza is a member of WAHSA, a state association serving primarily not-for-profit organizations, dedicated to providing quality housing, health, community and related services to older persons. WAHSA is affiliated with the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (AAHSA). When asked what it means to be a WAHSA member, Glen Pierce stated, “the networking and continuing education opportunities are great.  There are always members willing to discuss various ideas and issues and I believe that we are all stronger and better because of that”.