About us
Founded in 1983, Independence Square Foundation was created to provide nonprofit caregiver organizations with the high-quality work environments, facilities, and shared resources they deserve but may not be able to afford on their own. Today, the Foundation supports 23 nonprofit agencies across its two Rhode Island locations in Kingston and Pawtucket.
By helping organizations share space, overhead, expertise, and services, ISF allows each agency to reduce operating costs and direct more of its funding toward its mission. The Foundation also works with partner agencies to support advocacy, planning, and resources that strengthen services for individuals and families throughout Rhode Island.
Unwavering Care
We are committed to providing high-quality spaces that support our nonprofit tenants and the communities they serve.
Our Core Values
We are driven by a commitment to excellence, accessibility, and the collective strength of our community partners.
Accessibility First
Our facilities are designed to be inclusive and accessible, helping organizations serve people of all abilities.
Collaborative Growth
We create an environment where nonprofit organizations can connect, share resources, and grow together.
The Heart of Our Mission
Meet the dedicated leaders and professionals who work tirelessly to ensure Rhode Island nonprofits have the spaces and support they need to provide assistance to their clientele
Jack Padien
Executive Director
Nancy Moretti
Facilities Manager
Jane Hinchliffe
Tenant Liaison
Lindsey Paquette
administrative Assitant
John Padien IV
MaintenaNCE Manager
1983
The Vision Begins
Kenneth L. Kirk, a Director with PARI Independent Living Center and United Cerebral Palsy of RI, recognized nonprofits were often limited by facilities that didn't reflect their service's importance. He envisioned a model where sharing resources enabled access to superior facilities.
1993
Partnership with URI
Expanding south, ISF partnered with the University of Rhode Island to open Independence Square Kingston. This state-of-the-art facility was designed for accessibility, education, therapy, and rehabilitation, fostering collaborative care on the URI campus.
For more than 40 years, Independence Square Foundation has helped nonprofit organizations share space, resources, and support so they are able to focus more fully on the people they serve.
Our History
1984
ISF Takes Root
With planning from Kenneth Kirk, Chester Kirk, and Albert D’Amico, ISF purchased a former school in Pawtucket. Under Director John J. Padien III, Independence Square opened with two tenants and quickly reached its capacity of 24, requiring a waiting list.
2009
Continuing to Grow
A 27,000 square foot addition was completed at the Kingston facility, creating specialized space for healthcare programs, services for children with autism, early intervention initiatives, and health research and clinical activities.