Author: Cruz Management

3/20/2020

The coronavirus (COVID-19) is causing disruption and widespread concern in the community. We are closely monitoring guidance and recommendations from the Mass Department of Public Health (MDPH) and the Center for Disease Control (CDC). As a company that cares deeply about the community, Cruz Companies is implementing the following measures to take effect immediately:

STAFF: 

• As of March 18, 2020, The Cruz Offices will remain open at their regular hours; Construction and Development from 8:00am – 5:30pm, Monday thru Friday. Cruz Management Company is closing its office to the public and will reopen on March 30th, 2020. Each office will stagger employees as needed.
• Per directive from Boston Mayor Martin Walsh, all construction sites are to close effective, Tuesday, March 17, 2020 for 14 days. Please stay tuned on whether this will be extended. All Laborers and Carpenters employed by Cruz Construction are eligible to apply for unemployment benefits without a wait period of 5 days.

RESIDENTS: 
Across all Cruz Companies buildings, we are taking at minimum the following steps:

• Posting of CDC approved informative signage.
• Disinfection and cleaning procedures have been strengthened and efforts are underway to be more vigilant in disinfecting touched areas.
• We are implementing preventative measures to try and reduce the impact of the virus on our operations. These range from encouraging communication via email and phone to encouraging submission of required documents online to minimize face to face contact. Please contact your manager to arrange returning time sensitive documents.
• To make rent payments, kindly submit payment via mail.
• If someone in your household has become ill, please postpone making minor work order requests until everyone has recovered.
• If you have a serious maintenance issue that requires immediate attention, please call us immediately and let us know in advance if someone in your household is ill so that we may take the necessary precautions to protect our staff.

COMMUNITY STAKEHOLDERS:

• Postponing and cancelling upcoming meetings or events as necessary.

HOW CAN YOU HELP: 

• It is critical that we protect ourselves and our community, so please stay home if you feel ill. We strongly encourage you to continue to follow guidance from our local health authorities, along with the World Health Organization (WHO) and Center for Disease Control (CDC).
• If you or anyone in your family has a confirmed case of Coronavirus or come in direct contact with an individual who has a confirmed case of Coronavirus, please email VFountain@cruzcompanies.com for the Cruz Management Offices, or Rlpreston@cruzcompanies.com for Construction and Development Offices.

Containing the spread of the Coronavirus is a team effort, and we ask that each of you do what you can to protect each other as well as the broader community. If you have any outstanding questions, please reach out to Rlpreston@cruzcompanies.com.

While this is an ongoing situation, we are committed to taking steps to protect our residents and staff.

Thank you for your cooperation in helping to keep our communities safe.

(John B. Cruz III, President & CEO of Cruz Companies, with PA and BTE students and the directors of YouthBuild)

(John B. Cruz III, President & CEO of Cruz Companies and Ken Smith, Executive Director of YouthBuild speaking to students on opportunities in building trades, construction and training)

BOSTON – On Friday, February 7^th 2020, Cruz Companies’ President was presented an award for mentorship by YouthBuild Boston. John B. Cruz III, President & CEO of Cruz Companies spoke to a group of Pre-Apprentice and Building Trades Exploration students about the industry. Mr. Cruz talked about overcoming obstacles and perseverance through adversity.

The 15-week YouthBuild program is designed for individuals aged 18-25 who have a high school diploma and are interested in a career in the building trades. Within the program, students gain field experience on construction sites to make sure they are qualified as well as compliant with all safety measures upon graduation.

John B. Cruz III and Cruz Companies has developed a strong partnership with the organization over the years. Mr. Cruz holds a strong commitment to providing work opportunities to youth and minorities of Boston. The organization recognized this by presenting him the “Excellence in Mentoring Award” for his commitment to supporting Boston’s youth through mentorship and helping them prepare for a career in the building trades workforce.

About Cruz Companies: Cruz Companies has built a reputation for excellence in the fields of construction, development and management. One of the oldest and largest, minority-owned companies in the Northeast and a third-generation family business, Cruz is a modern firm that values old-fashioned quality and integrity. The John B. Cruz Construction Company is responsible for landmark projects and developments across the region; Cruz Development Corporation creates well designed, sustainable real estate developments, while maintaining the highest standards of workmanship, and maximizing the opportunity for minority owned companies and minority workers, and; Cruz Management Company, Inc. provides quality residential housing and services. Cruz Companies’ mission is giving back to the community in as many ways as possible. Cruz CARES (Community, Arts, Recreational and Educational Services) is Cruz Companies’ social responsibility arm, a non-profit organization that exists to help Boston’s urban community. For more information, please go to our website www.cruzcompanies.com

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(John B. Cruz III, President & CEO of The Cruz Companies, introducing the gentrification panel in honor of Black History Month)

(Boston University Law Students, listening to panel on gentrification)

BOSTON- On Wednesday, February 5^th 2020, John B. Cruz, III, President and CEO of Cruz Companies, presented on the panel for “Shifting Neighborhoods: Gentrification and Placemaking in Boston” at Boston University hosted by the Black Law Student Alliance (BLSA). The event drew local students, lawyers and professionals interested in the effects of gentrification and the meaningful improvements that could be made.

Mr. Cruz addressed the crowd with respect to new development and displacement. Panelists and guests engaged in dialogue about positive and negative effects of gentrification especially for low-income people of color and youth. Another topic of discussion was “Brain Drain Effect” describing the loss of local skill and talent.

“Cruz Companies is dedicated to combating the disadvantages that come with gentrification by limiting displacement and providing affordable new developments” said John B. Cruz III, President & CEO of the Cruz companies. “Cruz Companies for over 70 years, has been dedicated to giving back and investing locally. We have developed and managed affordable housing for thousands of families in Boston.”

The panel discussion was moderated by Nichole Beiner, a leadership and culture consultant who helps organizations create healthy, equitable cultures where their people can thrive. Panelists made brief remarks regarding their experience and expertise. Mr. Cruz was joined by Katherine Kennedy Director of The Howard Thurman Center; Professor Pelfrey Duryea Director of BU’s Compliance Policy Clinic; Henry Korman, Partner at Klein Hornig; and Sasha George, Honors Attorney at US Environmental Protection Agency.

About Cruz Companies: Cruz Companies has built a reputation for excellence in the fields of construction, development and management. One of the oldest and largest, minority-owned companies in the Northeast and a third-generation family business, Cruz is a modern firm that values old-fashioned quality and integrity. The John B. Cruz Construction Company is responsible for landmark projects and developments across the region; Cruz Development Corporation creates well designed, sustainable real estate developments, while maintaining the highest standards of workmanship, and maximizing the opportunity for minority owned companies and minority workers, and; Cruz Management Company, Inc. provides quality residential housing and services. Cruz Companies’ mission is giving back to the community in as many ways as possible. Cruz CARES (Community, Arts, Recreational and Educational Services) is Cruz Companies’ social responsibility arm, a non-profit organization that exists to help Boston’s urban community. For more information, please go to our website www.cruzcompanies.com

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(Cruz Companies’ CEO, John B. Cruz III, and Vice President, Justin Cruz, at Bridgewater State University luncheon)

(Cruz Companies meets student scholarship recipient at Bridgewater State University

BRIDGEWATER – On Friday, January 10, 2020, John B. Cruz III, President and CEO of Cruz Companies, as well as Justin Cruz, Vice President and Director of Cruz Management, attended a luncheon at Bridgewater State University to meet their current scholarship recipient, Melanie Santiago. The celebratory gathering took place on campus at the Jones Alumni House.

Cruz Companies takes great pride in giving back to youth offering programming, scholarships and economic development opportunities. John B. Cruz III attended the scholarship event to congratulate and support the John “Bertie” Cruz Scholarship recipient on their accomplishments and upcoming journeys.

“It is a sincere honor to be able to give back to the youth of our communities.” Said Cruz Companies’ President and CEO, John B. Cruz III. “We have built a partnership with Bridgewater State University over the years and have been able to support the educational dreams of over 15 students since 2007. It is a blessing to give back.” 

The John “Bertie” Cruz Scholarship is awarded to a matriculating minority student each year. Funding may be applied to the student’s academic expenses such as tuition, housing, books.

Cruz Companies has a motto of “Cruz cares” and consider it their mission to support and give back to the community, from Roxbury to New Bedford and Miami. By supporting the aspiring young generation through scholarships and programming, Cruz will continue to carry out their mission.

About Cruz Companies: Cruz Companies is the oldest and largest minority-owned construction, real estate development and property management firm in the region, responsible for landmark projects and developments. Cruz Companies’ mission is giving back to the community through providing employment and career opportunities to area residents, hiring local minority contractors and businesses, and increasing affordable and market rate housing. For more information, please go to our website www.cruzcompanies.com.

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BOSTON – On Monday, November 25, 2019, Cruz Management Company held its annual Turkey Giveaway. Justin Cruz, the Director of Cruz Management, handed out 50 turkeys to residents for their Thanksgiving dinners.   

(Justin Cruz, Director of Cruz Management Company, donating a frozen turkey)  

(Justin Cruz, Director of Cruz Management Company, with a local family)  

As Thanksgiving approaches, Cruz Management organized a turkey giveaway for families in time for the holiday. Residents from many of the properties managed by Cruz Companies were invited to the giveaway to sign up and take home a free frozen turkey to add to their Thanksgiving dinner table. Cruz Companies has made a tradition out of it partnering with 1st Armor Protection Services, Security Service Specialists, Inc. this year to fund the giveaway.  

“Cruz Management is dedicated to the community and families living at our developments.” Said Justin Cruz. “Thanksgiving is a family holiday; Cruz Companies love to bring more joy on such a special occasion.” 

About Cruz Companies: Cruz Companies is the oldest and largest minority-owned construction, real estate development and property management firm in the region, responsible for landmark projects and developments for over 70 years. Cruz Companies’ mission is giving back to the community through providing employment and career opportunities to area residents, hiring local minority contractors and businesses, and increasing affordable and market rate housing. For more information, please go to our website www.cruzcompanies.com.  

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BOSTON – On Sunday, September 29, 2019, the Cape Verde Gala & Auction was held by Project Health CV Inc. at the Liberty Hall, Revere Hotel Boston Common. John B. Cruz, III, president and CEO of Cruz Companies, was awarded by the Prime Minister of Cape Verde for his contribution to public health in Cape Verde.

(Prime Minister of Cape Verde giving speech.)

Cape Verde Gala & Auction is organized by Project Health CV, the fundraiser event was to honor Dr. Kevin Tabb with the Project Health Lifetime Achievement Award and to provide lifesaving care for at-risk children and families in Cape Verde. During the Gala, Prime Minister of Cape Verde, H.E. José Ulisses de Pina Correia e Silva, gave a speech acknowledging Project Health CV’s accomplishments and awarding Mr. Adalberto Teixeira and Mr. John B. Cruz III the Medalha de Mérito for their distinguished recognition with the program.

“John and Cruz Companies give back to local communities as part of their mission.” Said Prime Minister of Cape Verde H.E. José Ulisses de Pina Correia e Silva. “We look forward to continued collaboration between Cruz Companies and Project Health CV on aiding the health of people in Cape Verde.”

Project Health CV Inc. (PHCV) is a non-profit organization founded in 2009 by medical staff from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Cape Verdean immigrants. PHCV partners with the Cape Verdean Government, healthcare workers, and administrators in order to provide care to the most at-risk populations in the country.  Proceeds from the event will provide fully furnished surgical and medical suites, as well as critical adult and infant care.

(Cape Verde’s Prime Minister and Mr. John B. Cruz, III at the ceremony.)

John B. Cruz, III is the grandson of first-generation immigrants from Cabo Verde and the president of Cruz Companies, which is one of the oldest and largest, minority-owned companies in the Northeast. A third-generation, family-owned business, Cruz Companies always dedicates their work to the community.

About Cruz Companies: Cruz Companies is the oldest and largest minority-owned construction, real estate development and property management firm in the region, responsible for landmark projects and developments. Cruz Companies’ mission is giving back to the community through providing employment and career opportunities to area residents, hiring local minority contractors and businesses, and increasing affordable and market rate housing. For more information, please go to our website www.cruzcompanies.com.

Thank you to our friends at Eastern Bank for your generous contribution in the name of our founder John “Bertie” Cruz. What a gift! #CruzCARES #JoinUsForGood

(Mayor Walsh joins Cruz Companies President and CEO John B. Cruz, III  and Cruz Management Director Justin Cruz. Photo: Eric Haynes)

(3rd from left, Barbara Cruz celebrates with members of her wine club and emcee Karen Holmes Ward 2nd from right. Photo: Eric Haynes)  

(Melvin B Miller, publisher and editor of the Bay State Banner speaks about the Cruz family legacy. Photo: Eric Haynes) 

BOSTON – On Sunday, September 15, 2019, Cruz Companies was joined by Mayor Martin J. Walsh and members of the community at Franklin Park to celebrate 70 years in business for the region’s oldest and largest minority-owned construction and development firm.  

“Times change, but the one consistency in Boston for the past 70 years has been Cruz Companies,” said Mayor Walsh. “It is not just a company that employs people and builds things, it is part of our DNA in the City of Boston. Congratulations to the Cruz family for this incredible success.” 

Founded in 1948 as a Black-owned carpentry subcontracting firm, Cruz Companies is now a third-generation, family-owned business, responsible for landmark projects, jobs and economic opportunity for diverse residents across the region.  

“My father ‘Bertie’ started this company at a time when blacks were known to be last hired, and first fired in the construction industry,” said John B. Cruz, III, president and CEO of Cruz Companies. “Now 70 years later, we’re fulfilling my father’s legacy and proudly entering the third-generation of our family’s business. My thanks go out to all of our family, staff and community members who made this possible.”

Karen Holmes Ward of WCVB-TV Boston emceed the event, which featured bands, dancers, lawn games and a display of Cruz Companies’ history. Other honorees included Melvin B. Miller, publisher and editor of the Bay State Banner; and the family of Walter Williams, former director of Contractors Association of Boston. 

More About Cruz Companies: Cruz Companies’ mission is giving back to the community through providing employment and career opportunities to area residents, hiring local minority contractors and businesses, and increasing affordable and market-rate housing. For more information, visit www.CruzCompanies.com.  

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(John B. Cruz III, President and CEO of Cruz Companies, and Justin Cruz, Director of Cruz Management welcome Bob Rivers CEO of Eastern Bank)

(John B. Cruz III, President and CEO of Cruz Companies, and Justin Cruz, Director of Cruz Management greet Bob Rivers CEO of Eastern Bank)

On Friday, April 5, 2019, John B. Cruz III, President and CEO of Cruz Companies, and Justin Cruz, Director of Cruz Management, welcomed CEO of Eastern Bank, Bob Rivers. The three came together for an informal presentation.

Standing below a framed photo of the construction company’s namesake, John “Bertie” Cruz, John and Justin Cruz, accepted a framed article from Mr. Rivers. The Eastern Bank CEO preserved a Boston Business Journal feature in honor of the company. The article, titled “Summer Stock: Cruz Cos. CEO chose construction over drama, and hasn’t looked back”, highlights the Cruz growth. Over the past seven decades, the Cruz Companies’ investment in local development and economy is undeniable. From a two-man carpentry operation to multi-million dollar construction, real estate and management, the family-owned business cares about community.

“Our motto is ‘Cruz Cares’ and our mission is giving back to the community in as many ways as possible,” said John B. Cruz, III President and CEO. “We incorporate our community values in all that we do, from Roxbury to New Bedford and Miami.”

Similarly, Eastern Bank is known for their philanthropy and commitment to doing well. Cruz hopes to work on projects in the Southeastern Massachusetts like Brockton and New Bedford.

Cruz Companies will celebrate its 70th Anniversary on June 2, connecting long time employees, team members, friends, community members, family and business clients such as Eastern Bank. Funds raised from the event will benefit minority students at Bridgewater State University through the John “Bertie” Cruz, Jr. Scholarship Fund and Cruz C.A.R.E.S., the social responsibility arm of Cruz Companies, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides programs and services for children, youth and families of Greater Boston.

About Cruz Companies: Cruz Companies is the oldest and largest minority-owned construction, real estate development and property management firm in the region, responsible for landmark projects and developments. Cruz Companies’ mission is giving back to the community through providing employment and career opportunities to area residents, hiring local minority contractors and businesses, and increasing affordable and market rate housing. For more information, please go to our website www.cruzcompanies.com.

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