Last week, Cummings Properties distributed $253,000 to local nonprofits, including three Burlington-based organizations. The donations were made in honor of the commercial real estate firm’s full-time staff members, who were each invited through the Employee Directed Giving program to select a charity to receive $1,000.
The Burlington recipients of the cash awards are Burlington Council on Aging, Heartbeat Pregnancy Help Center, and People Helping People.
In an effort to support local communities, the program guidelines state that selected organizations must be based and provide services in or near colleagues’ hometowns. Several charities received more than one check, thanks to multiple employee nominations. The maximum allowed for any one organization is $5,000.
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Leasing Coordinator Laurie Glasser, a lifetime Burlington resident, designated Burlington Council on Aging.
“I love all that the organization does for elderly residents,” said Glasser. “One of my family members uses its services regularly, especially for transportation for medical appointments, and it has been such a big help.”
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Although he lives in neighboring Woburn, Carpentry Team Leader Mark Lynch and his family have been donating children’s clothing to Heartbeat Pregnancy Help Center for more than a decade. The 21-year-old nonprofit provides diapers, toys, and various children's necessities to local families in need.
Lynch said, “We’ve maintained a great relationship with Heartbeat over the years, and knew the $1,000 donation would be put to good use there.”
Employee Directed Giving is open to all full-time staff within any Cummings entity, including the firm’s affiliated New Horizons retirement communities in Marlborough and Woburn. The program will be held again in November, in conjunction with the Thanksgiving season, and then each November thereafter.
“Engaging our colleagues in Cummings Properties’ philanthropy has been a win-win situation,” said president and CEO Dennis Clarke. “The funds are benefiting a wide range of worthy local nonprofits, and employees and their families are becoming even more involved in their communities.”
Cummings Properties has a presence in 10 greater Boston communities, including Burlington, where it manages the building at 101 Cambridge Street.
More information about Employee Directed Giving, including a complete list of recipient organizations, is available at www.cummingsproperties.com/employee_directed_giving.htm.
