BOSTON — State Representative Kate Lipper-Garabedian nominated Wakefield resident Marie Rej and Melrose resident Janis Mamayek, founders of INspire CAFÉ in Wakefield as 2025 Commonwealth Heroines. Each year, state legislators identify women in their Districts who make outstanding contributions to their communities. Elected officials are encouraged to nominate a “heroine” from their constituency to the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women as a means of recognizing their constituent’s invaluable efforts and extraordinary acts of service. Commonwealth Heroines are making a big difference in their communities but not necessarily making the news.
“Marie and Janis’s leadership in founding INspire CAFÉ has made a tremendous difference in the lives of many families who are eager to support their differently abled sons’ and daughters’ pursuit of the sense of purpose that comes with meaningful employment,” said Lipper-Garabedian (D-Melrose). “I
have been glad to join the Wakefield state delegation in securing earmarks to help renovate the new and permanent location for the INspire CAFÉ and to visit during the construction process and now as a customer. Thanks to the hard work, diligence and optimism generated by Marie and Janis, INspire CAFÉ is a special space of inclusivity for residents of the 32nd Middlesex District and beyond.”
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition as a 2025 Commonwealth Heroine,” said Marie Rej. “Thank you, Representative Kate Lipper-Garabedian and the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women, for this incredible honor.”
“Thank you; I am honored to be part of the Class of 2025,” said Janis Mamayek. “Inspiring good is the spirit of all the Commonwealth Heroines, together we can INspire change.”
When a local coffee shop employing differently abled individuals closed in March 2023, Marie Rej and Janis Mamayek concluded that the experience for each of their sons who had been employed at the now-shuttered store was too positive to let go. The Boys and Girls Club of Stoneham and Wakefield, now Metro North agreed that the employment of this population fit within its mission of workforce development. Together they established INspire CAFÉ. Their journey involved community engagement and awareness of the mission, grassroots fundraising and a multi-community search for a triple A location, one that was accessible, available and affordable.
A senior principal at a Boston-based architectural firm, Janis led development of the INspire brand, designing and guiding the undertaking from initial program to concept, design development and construction. As the Board Chair of the Friends of INspire CAFÉ, Janis has steered the execution of the INspire mission, one of that will “INspire Change” creating a more INclusive world where individuals with diverse abilities are not just included but are valued for their unique talents and abilities.
Marie’s leadership role with INspire CAFÉ built on her efforts as a driving force in the creation of Wakefield’s P.O.S.T. (Purposeful Opportunities for Successful Transition) Academy, the collaborative post-secondary program for Wakefield’s post-high school students who are differently abled. The program provides experiential and educational opportunities in the areas of daily living, employment, community inclusion, recreation, leisure and real-world academic skills to promote a successful transition to adulthood.
Both Marie and Janis also serve on the Citizens Advisory Board for the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Metro North Region. Their continued commitment to inclusivity and accessibility is a testament to their dedication to making a true difference in the Commonwealth for all communities.
Nominees were recognized and celebrated at a reception hosted by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women on June 26 at the Massachusetts State House.