Forty Carrots grows with building purchase

From 2014 to 2015, Forty Carrots Family Center increased free community outreach programs by 40% and now is seeking to physically expand as well. 

It will do just that with the $277,770 purchase in May of a building on Floyd Street across from its current location on Tuttle Avenue. The former real estate office will be renovated in time for the 2015 school year to expand individual child and family therapy services offered at Forty Carrots Family Center.

For more than 20 years the nonprofit organization has helped families through educational programs for parents, children and professionals in the field. The programs offered include parenting education, mental-health services for children and families, preschool and VPK classes. From June 2014 through Mary 2015, Forty Carrots Family Center served 3,968 individuals. Ninety percent of families receive free services. 

The newly renovated space will add an additional 1,800 square feet to hold two therapy rooms, security observation capabilities, an office for the therapist, three offices, an additional open work space, a small kitchen and a receiving lobby. 

"It’s not a large space but we’ve packed a lot of use into it," said Michelle Kapreilian, Forty Carrots Family Center executive director. 

Kapreilian said expansions has always been a long-term goal, and that the opportunity presented itself when the owner of the neighboring building announced the property would be listed for sale. The addition allows Forty Carrots Family Center to expand without having to relocate. 

"It’s really about being able to work for everyone to have space to work properly and for clients to have a place where they feel comfortable waiting,"Kapreilian said. "Having space to have our science room for our preschoolers is tremendous and will have years of impact on their brains."

Within the original facilities a new science room for students will be reconfigured, and five staff members have been added for the expansion.

"We just hope to be able to continue to help the people in our community," Kapreilian said.