In these challenging times, inspiration is everywhere

By Nicole Witherbee

Someone recently asked me how I stay optimistic in these challenging times. As the president of a foundation, I have a front-row seat to the panic leaders of Maine nonprofits feel as demand for their services mounts, and the resources needed to meet that demand diminish, or even disappear. But I also see innovative programs around the state that are helping Maine families build a brighter tomorrow. They’re led by unsung heroes in our own backyard, who are changing lives through creativity, compassion, resourcefulness, and rigor. It is these people who inspire me and keep me feeling optimistic about our future.

Bangor Housing Authority is leading the charge with programs that help families achieve stability and independence. Since 2014, BangorHousing has partnered with the John T. Gorman Foundation to expand an enhanced Family Self-Sufficiency program offered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The program helps residents advance their education and careers while building savings. 

It has demonstrated measurable success, with participants increasing employment, raising incomes, building financial assets, and reducing debt. Among the 306 households enrolled, the average family income tripled, rising from $10,304 to $30,567. One-third of families reduced the amount of public assistance they needed or eliminated it altogether. Twenty graduates of the program became homeowners.

Building on the success of that program, the team at BangorHousing partnered with Boys & Girls Club of Bangor to develop a program called Moving Families Forward. The program helps parents along career, education, and asset-building pathways; gives families access to a range of services to improve their overall well-being; and offers quality after-school and summer programming.

Families in the program report gains in employment and income, along with stronger community involvement, healthier family and social relationships, improved parenting skills, and better mental health and well-being. 

These results illustrate the power and potential of the two-generation approach, which supports children and their caregivers simultaneously. Across the state, two-generation strategies are being used to help parents achieve their goals, while supporting the healthy development of children. 

In Washington County, Family Futures Downeast helps parents return to school for post-secondary degrees and credentials, while providing access to early childhood education, family coaching, tutoring, and other supports. Coaches work with parents as they adjust to college life and address obstacles to staying enrolled. Since 2016, 204 participants have entered college, and completed more than 45 professional certifications and licenses. 

In Portland and Bangor, Northern Light Mercy Hospital’s McAuley Residence supports women in substance use recovery and their children, with multiple supports for family reunification, including housing and counseling. Mothers receive treatment, parenting coaching, academic, and career support while their children have access to early education, counseling, and pediatric care. It, too, has seen incredible results. Some 76 percent of women stay in recovery after completing the program. Nearly all the participants reunify with their families and enroll in college classes.

In the wake of these chaotic and challenging times, these programs are good cause for optimism. They not only help families build brighter futures but also set powerful and inspiring examples of what’s possible.

Witherbee is the president and CEO of the John T. Gorman Foundation. The foundation is focused on ensuring all Maine children are resilient and ready to succeed.