Lancaster, PA // May 2026 — TONO Group, a Lancaster-based multidisciplinary architecture, design, and construction firm, celebrated its 25th anniversary with a community-focused give-back event and open house at CrossNet Ministries on Thursday, May 7. The event highlighted both the firm’s regional impact and its continued investment in Central Pennsylvania’s economic and community development.

The anniversary celebration brought together clients, partners, and community members for a tour of CrossNet Ministries, a large-scale project designed and built by TONO Group to support expanded services for individuals and families across Lancaster County. The warehouse spans an entire city block and was thoughtfully designed to function as a welcoming, efficient hub for community services, including food distribution, youth programming, and support resources.

In addition to drawing awareness to CrossNet by holding the event at its facility, TONO worked to double its impact through a “Stuff This Backpack” supply drive. Leading up to the event, TONO gave the companies and individuals on their invitation list the opportunity to participate in the drive. TONO delivered new, empty backpacks to attendees who then encouraged their employees to fill the backpack with food, clothing, personal care and household items. Attendees then brought the full backpacks with them to the event, handing them over to CrossNet who will distribute them to children in need in Lancaster County.

The response was overwhelming. The event brought more than 50 full backpacks plus several hundred additional donations including canned food, diapers and cleaning supplies. CrossNet Ministries Executive Director Allison Cuthie said the donations will have meaningful impact on children in the community who participate in their annual backpack giveaway. “It’s a special day to help kids who are excited about going back to school but wouldn’t have had the opportunity to show up with a new backpack just like every other kid arriving at school that day,” said Cuthie. “The ability to support them is directly related to TONO’s gift and the community’s participation. We are just so grateful.”

Evolution to a Fully Integrated Firm

Founded in 2001 in Lancaster, TONO Group has evolved into a fully integrated firm offering architecture, construction, interior design, and development services. From community-focused nonprofits to commercial and residential projects across Central Pennsylvania and the broader mid-Atlantic region, TONO’s work reflects a strong connection to the region’s growth and a reputation for collaborative, people-centered design.

“This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve been on the past 25 years,” said Hunter Johnson, AIA, founder and CEO of TONO Group. “We’re deeply grateful for the clients, partners, and communities—especially here in Central Pennsylvania—who have trusted us to help bring their visions to life. Together, we’ve built more than structures—we’ve built lasting relationships and spaces that truly matter.”

TONO’s integrated model has positioned the firm to respond to increasing demand for streamlined project delivery and cohesive development strategies, an approach that continues to gain traction among both private and nonprofit clients. The CrossNet Ministries project exemplifies this model, combining design, construction, and mission alignment to deliver long-term value for the organization and the surrounding community. The facility was developed through close collaboration with CrossNet’s leadership to ensure the building supports the organization’s day-to-day operations and long-term mission.

Looking Ahead to Another 25

TONO Group sees continued opportunity to expand its impact both locally and in new markets, while staying grounded in the values that have defined its first 25 years. 

“As we look to the next 25 years, we’re energized by the possibilities ahead,” said Sharlee Van Tine, AIA, LEED AP, managing director/architect at TONO Group. “We’re proud of the work we’ve done across Pennsylvania, and we’re excited to continue growing our reach while staying true to our roots—delivering thoughtful, innovative design that supports thriving communities.”

The anniversary event served as both a celebration of TONO Group’s legacy and a call to action demonstrating how design and development can serve as catalysts for both economic progress and social impact in Central PA.

About TONO Group

TONO Group redefines the building process by providing a seamless, single-source experience for commercial and residential clients. From its offices in downtown Lancaster and West Chester, Pennsylvania, TONO Group maintains a clear mission to create meaningful places and improve the quality of the built environment. Respecting architecture as a singular endeavor, the team’s tailored and integrated project delivery process has produced exceptional spaces nationwide. Five distinct businesses fall under the TONO Group umbrella, each dedicated to a core component of the construction process: TONO Architects, PROTO Construction, Interiors by DECO, RETRO Development and RELO Real Estate Services. For more information about TONO Group and its team and portfolio, visit www.tonogroup.com.