NAMI Maine and the Maine Masonic Charitable Foundation: A partnership transforming youth mental health

AUGUSTA — Since 2018, the Maine Masonic Charitable Foundation has provided indispensable support to NAMI Maine, enabling significant strides in youth and family mental health education across the state. With their ongoing contributions, NAMI Maine has reached 3,724 individuals through 117 trainings and presentations, spanning 14 of Maine’s 16 counties.

This long-standing partnership has empowered NAMI Maine’s Youth Education Department to expand its programming significantly. What began with Youth Mental Health First Aid training for youth-serving adults has evolved into a comprehensive suite of resources directly supporting young people and their families.

Among these innovative initiatives are the S.T.E.P. Into Action peer support plan and a peer support text line, which provide crucial, accessible help to Maine’s youth. Additionally, NAMI Maine offers its Mental Health Conversation program, an interactive presentation designed to normalize discussions about mental health, reduce stigma, promote healthy coping strategies, and encourage help-seeking behaviors.

“With the Maine Masonic Charitable Foundation’s steadfast support, we’ve been able to bring these vital resources to youth and community members from South Berwick to Fort Kent,” said Libby Wright, director of youth programming at NAMI Maine. “Their generosity and shared commitment to mental health education have made this journey possible.”

The collaboration has helped normalize mental health conversations in schools, communities, and families, fostering an environment where Maine’s youth feel empowered to connect with trusted adults and seek the support they need.

“This partnership with the Maine Masonic Charitable Foundation has been a cornerstone of our efforts to support Maine’s youth education program. Together, we are breaking down barriers, fostering resilience, and ensuring young people have the tools and resources they need to thrive,” said Jennifer Thompson, executive director of NAMI Maine.

NAMI Maine is deeply grateful for this transformative partnership and looks forward to continuing its mission to promote mental health awareness and education with the Foundation’s unwavering support.

“The Foundation believes in the importance, power and strength of our communities here in Maine and our partnership with NAMI Maine plays an integral part in ensuring our youth have access to the help, training and guidance they need to become strong and healthy adults,” said Susan Scacchi, executive director at the Maine Masonic Charitable Foundation.

NAMI Maine is the state’s leading organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals and families affected by mental health challenges. Through education, support, and advocacy, NAMI Maine works to reduce stigma and create a more inclusive, informed community.

The Maine Masonic Charitable Foundation is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of Mainers through charitable giving and community initiatives. Their dedication to supporting programs that benefit youth, families, and communities underscores their mission of improving lives in Maine through charity and good works.

For more information, visit · https://namimaine.org ·and https://MaineMCF.org.