Wakefield, MA EMARC, a nonprofit organization that works to support, serve, and advocate for people with developmental disabilities and their families, is opening a new facility at 30 and 60 Audubon Rd. The new site will consolidate EMARC’s main office and its Life Choices and Employment Services center in Reading.
The nonprofit’s new 28,550 s/f location is operated by Cummings Properties on behalf of the building owner, Cummings Foundation.
“EMARC was in search of a larger facility where it could increase its programming,” said Cummings senior leasing director Rob Yacobian, who worked on the transaction with Mark Mulvey of Cushman & Wakefield. “We were able to provide the space for its residential and day programs, in addition to constructing new amenities.”
These amenities include a gym and fully functioning training kitchen, created by Cummings Properties’ in-house design and construction teams to support EMARC’s new programs and employment training opportunities.
“Everybody is very, very excited about the modern, updated space, especially the training kitchen and gym,” said Maureen O’Brien, EMARC director of community relations. “We love the functional design and the utilization of space.”
The larger classrooms and multiple common areas will enable EMARC to host more programs and trainings, according to O’Brien.
This lease is EMARC’s second with Cummings Properties. Its North Shore Life Choices & Employment Services center is located at Cummings Center in Beverly.
Cummings Foundation awarded EMARC a $100,000 grant in 2013 through the $100K for 100 program.
“It’s a privilege to have such a longstanding and multifaceted relationship with an organization as well-respected and impactful as EMARC,” said Yacobian.
Cummings Properties’ portfolio of 11 million s/f of prime space accommodates offices, healthcare facilities, labs, restaurants, retail storefronts, warehouses, co-working spaces, executive suites, and more. With a portfolio of this size and variety, the firm can meet almost any commercial real estate need from 150 square feet to 300,000 s/f. Its in-house experts in design, construction, and property management offer “one-stop shopping” for the business community.
The organization was incorporated in 1957 with the mission to ensure that people with developmental disabilities are valued, respected and empowered to engage as productive citizens in their communities. EMARC offers day services, adult residential services, employment training, and support programs to more than 1,000 local families annually.
