(Baltimore, MD) — The Maryland Chapter of the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties (NAIOP-MD) was presented its national organizations' Community Service Award during ceremonies in Washington DC on February 10. The Chapter was honored for its donated $800,000 renovation of the House of Ruth in Baltimore.

"The NAIOP project updated and improved the appearance and functionality of the House of Ruth Administrative Office's counseling, legal training and administrative staff space," said Cathy Ward, a real estate executive with Corporate Office Properties Trust and a member of the Maryland NAIOP Board of Directors.

The House of Ruth is Maryland's leading domestic violence center and serves more than 10,000 people each year.

Headquartered in a 15,000 sq. ft., 3-story building which is more than 100 years old, the House of Ruth administrative offices were in dire need of refurbishment. Funding of the project relied heavily on NAIOP member contributions of money and materials to in-kind services.

Spearheaded by NAIOP Board members, over three dozen area building suppliers and contractors lent assistance to the project.

The renovation of the administrative office space allows the House of Ruth staff to better meet the needs of their clients. The newly updated space provides a more welcoming and efficient work space. "One of the nicest aspects of the renovated space is the improved lighting and inset glass doors off the corridors, providing a cheerier environment and an improved view of the surrounding grounds," said Ms. Ward.