More Than $131K Gifted To Back Bay Nonprofits

Six Back Bay nonprofits were awarded $130,949 altogether in community benefit funds through the Avalon Exeter development at the Prudential Center complex in the Back Bay. 

“I am delighted that these developments will expand the missions of these vital nonprofit organizations,” said Mayor Menino. “The commitment these groups have to our neighborhoods makes the city of Boston stronger every day.”

Including five South End nonprofits that also received money, 11 neighborhood nonprofits received a total of $210,949. Since 1990, close to $1.4M has been distributed to 22 area nonprofits largely concentrated in the Back Bay and South End as the result of development at the Prudential Center.

Receiving grants in the Back Bay are:

• The Esplanade Association for the Children in the Park program ($25,000)
• The Emerald Necklace Conservancy for the docent and guide program ($5,949)
• The Friends of Copley Square for the Copley Square Fountain Restoration ($25,000)
• The Friends of Symphony Park (Boston Parks) for capital improvements to Symphony Park ($50,000)
• Kit Clark Senior Service for the Fit-4-Life on-site wellness program for Prudential residents ($12,500)
• The Women’s Lunch Place for daily meals for homeless women ($12,500) 

The $100 million Avalon Exeter Project, developed by Avalon Bay Communities, will generate $725,000 in new taxes and creates 300 new construction jobs and 15 permanent jobs, according to the mayor's office. The building will have 187 rental units, consisting of studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. Avalon Exeter will cap off the residential component of the Prudential Center development plan. 

The 11 nonprofits awarded grants were chosen through a competitive process managed by the Prudential Project Advisory Committee (PruPAC). PruPAC is a city-appointed citizens' advisory group for development at the Prudential Center.