EASTON, MA— House of Possibilities (HOPe), a nonprofit organization supporting individuals with disabilities, is recognizing the strategic partners who played a crucial role in bringing its Yawkey Campus expansion project to groundbreaking.
The Yawkey Campus, named in honor of the Yawkey Foundation’s $5 million lead gift, will significantly expand HOPe’s presence at Stonehill College in Easton. The project includes the construction of a new 15,000-square-foot building and renovations to the existing 11,000-square-foot facility — more than doubling the nonprofit’s program space.
The project was made possible through critical contributions from MassDevelopment, Rockland Trust, and McDermott Will & Emery, who provided the financial and legal framework to launch the initiative.
MassDevelopment issued a $14.1 million tax-exempt bond, which was purchased by Rockland Trust, enabling HOPe to move forward with both new construction and renovations. Rockland Trust now also serves as HOPe’s bank of record, supporting ongoing financial operations. Legal firm McDermott Will & Emery contributed pro bono legal services, ensuring sound contracts and agreements to protect HOPe’s long-term interests.
“It is an honor to stand alongside HOPe as their financial partner,” said David Semenza, Vice President, Commercial Banking Officer at Rockland Trust. “This expansion will open doors for so many individuals and families, and we are proud to be part of the team ensuring HOPe has the resources needed to continue changing lives.”
Once completed, the expanded campus will allow HOPe to increase enrollment in its Career & Community Access Program, which offers individuals with disabilities a range of services including career exploration, life skills training, community engagement, volunteering, and respite care.
“This project demonstrates how strategic financing and strong partnerships can transform what’s possible,” said Katie Terino, President & CEO of HOPe. “The need for our services is critical — individuals in the disability community are waiting for programs. This expansion allows us to meet that demand with a cost-effective and sustainable model.”
The Yawkey Campus expansion is expected to be completed in summer 2026.
