How It All Began
In 1983, Kenneth L. Kirk, a Director with PARI Independent Living Center, and United Cerebral Palsy of Rhode Island, came to an important realization. While the work of non-profit organizations like his was truly exceptional, their facilities were not. The funds that these organizations managed to funnel into their programs left little for overhead. As a result many were housed in less than adequate facilities.
Ken Kirk believed that these organizations deserved an environment to match the caliber of their work. By sharing overhead, and pooling their resources, they could afford better space and equipment, maximizing the value of every dollar they spent.
This was the inspiration for Independence Square Foundation, an idea that would blossom in the years ahead.
ISF Takes Root in Pawtucket
When a school building that was no longer needed by the City of Pawtucket became available, a perfect opportunity was recognized. Mr Kirk was joined by Chester H. Kirk, and Albert N. D’Amico in planning its purchase. John J. Padien, III was appointed Director, to help implement and develop the plan.
The 40,000 square foot facility provided an ideal setting for creating shared areas such as client service facilities, an auditorium, a cafeteria, and a gymnasium. Everything was housed on a single level, with nine ramps allowing easy access for the disabled. In 1984, Independence Square opened its doors with two tenants. Within a few years, 24 tenants would be added along with a waiting list.
A New Facility in Collaboration With URI
Inspired by the success of the Pawtucket operation, ISF extended its vision to southern Rhode Island. Working with the University of Rhode Island, a new facility would be designed from the ground up, for construction on the University’s Kingston campus. The partnership with URI would add an educational component to the foundation’s concept. Every aspect of the new building’s design would address the special needs of its tenants.
In 1993, Independence Square, Kingston opened its state of the art facility, boasting therapeutic and aquatic exercise centers, fitness and rehabilitation equipment, and conference rooms equipped for satellite teleconferencing.
ISF Continues to Grow
An addition to the URI/Kingston facility began in July 2007 and construction was completed January 2009. This 27,000 square foot expansion provides much needed space to house related health care programs and functions in an interactive environment, including services to autistic children, early intervention programs, and some of URI’s health research and clinical activities.