Winchester charities to receive Thanksgiving grants

WOBURN, November 21, 2012 – Given its close affiliation with Cummings Foundation, Cummings Properties is no stranger to philanthropy. The commercial real estate firm is taking an unusual approach to giving this holiday season, however, by asking its longtime staff members to select local charities that will collectively receive $111,000 in donations. Six Winchester-based organizations will benefit from this initiative.

Through the new Staff Giving on Thanksgiving program, employees with 10 or more years of seniority with the Cummings organization were each invited to choose a locally based not-for-profit to receive a $1,000 donation.

Justin Magee, Cummings Properties field division manager and a Winchester resident, recommended the Winchester Cooperative Theater for Children.

Magee stated, “This is a wonderful opportunity for employees to give back to the community. The Winchester Cooperative Theater has enriched the lives of thousands of local children over the years, including my three sons. I am very happy to recommend the organization to receive a donation.”

Other Winchester-based not-for-profits that will receive funding are St. Mary's School, Winchester Council on Aging, Winchester Hospital Foundation, Winchester Soccer Club, and Wright-Locke Farm Conservancy.

Cummings Properties president and CEO Dennis Clarke, also a Winchester resident, said, “Cummings Properties has always been extremely active in local philanthropy. This year, the Company is delighted to do something extra special by involving more than 100 staff members in this new donation program. It is truly our pleasure to support such deserving local charities during the holiday season, especially knowing that they are so meaningful to our most senior colleagues.”

Cummings Properties will distribute the donations during the week of Thanksgiving.