Community... What a Concept: Recent Episodes
Community Concepts
Community... What a Concept is the official podcast of Community Concepts, a nonprofit community action partnership based in Lewiston and South Paris, Maine. Our mission is to strengthen individuals, families and communities in Western Maine by providing diverse programs, by engaging in strategic partnerships, and through advocacy that addresses the barriers to promote economic opportunities for all.
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
Follow CCI online and on social media:
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Community Concepts' Melissa Robinson and Kayla Gleason join us to share about the upcoming Community Baby Shower being hosted by Community Concepts next week!
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Join John, Kelsey and special guest Alyson Holland talking about the diaper drive!
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Leslie Ogilvie, Chief of Development & Communications at Tri-County Mental Health Services (TCMHS), joins us to share about the agency's wide array of programs and services in Western Maine.
TCMHS offers specialized treatment for children, adults, and families. The agency's programs include mental health services, substance misuse services, and veterans services.
TCMHS is also preparing for their upcoming Inspired Voices evening of performances on Saturday, September 23rd at the Franco Center in Lewiston. The evening includes a reception and show where TCMHS clients share their talents and tell their stories, with proceeds supporting TCMHS programming.
To learn more about all of the above, visit the TCMHS website at www.tcmhs.org.
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Join John, Kelsey and special guests Hillary and Chuck with Team Long Run and Dannielle with Headstart for the Community concepts news Update!!
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Join John and Kelsey for this weeks Community Service Update!
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Join John, Kelsey, Christen and special guest Leanna Bowie with Wheeler's Insurance for this weeks community service update!
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Join Kelsey and John for the latest CCSC updates!!
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
John John, Ruby Bean and Maureen Bilodeau with the Progress Center.
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Join John and Kelsey with special guest Susan Jouard with NeighborWorks America, a congressionally chartered and funded nonpartisan nonprofit that supports organizations providing communities with affordable housing, financial counseling, coaching and more.
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Guests Misty Parker and Jacqueline Crucet with the City of Lewiston share details on exciting projects coming to life through the City's Choice Neighborhood Transformation Plan.
Hear updates on new housing developments, expansions to daycare and early learning opportunities in our community, beautification initiatives, and the approval of the Riverfront Island Master Plan.
To learn more about the Choice Neighborhood Transformation Plan, visit www.lewistonmaine.gov.
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Guest Elizabeth Badger joins us to share about The Catholic Foundation of Maine, a nonprofit organization giving people the opportunity to charitably invest for the long term and in support of causes they care most about.
Through the foundation, gifts and endowments may be given, established, or designated for a wide variety of needs, ministries, organizations, or programs. Anyone can create a fund through the Foundation, and the organization works with donors of all levels.
To learn more, visit The Catholic Foundation of Maine's website.
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Join John and Kelsey with special guests Kari Taylor, Tina Jones and Aaron Ryder with The Hills Recovery Center in Norway Maine talking about Addiction Recovery.
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Join John, Kelsey and special guest Lisa Rodrigues for this weeks community service's update!
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Guests Susan Denoncour and Melissa Robinson with CCI's Family Services team join us to share about the agency's programs for families of all kinds, and plans and events scheduled in April for Child Abuse Prevention Month.
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Join John, Kelsey and Mia talking about Broadband Expansion in Maine!
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Lisa McGee, Energy Manager at Community Concepts, joins us to share updates on the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) and to announce the Winter Energy Relief Program, a new initiative providing additional energy assistance to Maine residents.
If you live in Androscoggin or Oxford County and are struggling to afford heating your home, please call us! We can determine what assistance you are eligible for.
- You may qualify for HEAP if you are a: renter, renter with heat included, homeowner, subsidized renter with heat not included, employed or unemployed, or have income earned by wages or other sources.
- If you qualify for HEAP, you may qualify for many other programs. Our team will help direct you to those programs once your application has been approved.
- If you are over income for HEAP, you may be eligible for the new Winter Energy Relief Program. This program provides an $800 payment directly to your vendor, funded by the energy relief bill passed by Maine State Legislature and signed by Governor Mills in January.
- Emergency Fuel Assistance is available for anyone in danger of running out of heating fuel (oil, wood pellets, kerosene, etc.).
To apply, please call us:207-795-4065 or 207-743-7716
TTY Relay: Dial 711 to connect to a Maine Relay Operator
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Marjorie Millett, Homeownership Center Manager with Community Concepts Finance Corporation, joins us to share about the L/A CA$H Coalition's Free Tax Prep Service in Androscoggin and Oxford Counties.
For tax filers in Androscoggin or Oxford Counties with a total income of $60,000 or less, the Free Tax Prep Program is available by appointment only. To make an appointment:
- Call 207-739-6530
- Emaillaca$h@community-concepts.org
- Schedule online through the EzNET scheduler here
- Upload documents directly online here without the need for an in-person appointment. Your file will then be assigned to a volunteer preparer.
This program is funded in part by the Department of Health and Human Services.
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Before diving deeper into 2023, the team catches up on all things CCI and reflects on the many impactful organizations we learned about on the podcast throughout 2022. Resource Development Manager Christian Ricci also joins us to share about our Annual Appeal, Town Campaign, and the CCI Impact Circle, and we introduce our agency's new Chief Executive Officer, Jim Martin, who joined the CCI team at the beginning of the year.
Don't forget! The podcast now comes out bi-weekly on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month. Thank you for subscribing!
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Tricia Tomlinson and Sonia Turgeon join us to share about The Center for Wisdom's Women, a nonprofit in Lewiston providing a safe-haven for women while supporting them in building community, finding resources, and building self-esteem and resiliency.
The Center is open on a drop-in basis Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10am-1pm to provide a stress-free environment where women can come for rest, conversation, find support groups, and take part in activities together.
The Center also offers a residential program called Sophia's House, providing 2 years of housing and programming for women who are survivors of prostitution, trafficking, prison, and addiction.
To learn more, donate, or sign up to volunteer, visit www.wisdomswomen.org.
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Community Concepts Board Member Ashley Medina joins us to share about the Goodwill Take 2 YouthBuild Program, where she works as a Recruitment and Intake Specialist. Take 2 works with participants ages 17-24 in the Lewiston/Auburn area, providing pathways to help them rebuild their lives through education and job training while also giving back to their community.
Take 2 participants spend half of their time in education working in a supportive environment to attain their High School Equivalency Test (HiSET). Through the program, they also learn construction and work-readiness skills to help them reach their career and life goals. New this year, students will also be learning how to upcycle furniture that will be then sold in Goodwill stores!
To learn more or to schedule an information session, contact Ashley at:
- Office: 207.795.6820
- Email: Ashley.Medina@goodwillnne.org
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Special guest Erin Reed, Executive Director of the Trinity Jubilee Center in Lewiston, shares about the organization's soup kitchen, pantry, day shelter, resource center, and refugee integration program.
Located at 53 Spruce Street in Lewiston, Trinity Jubilee Center has been serving the public since 1991. The Center is currently open 6 days a week and serves more than 1,000 people each week.
For more information on program hours, resources, and how you can get involved, visit the Center's website at: www.trinityjubileecenter.org
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Host Kelsey Cote and Producer John Williams discuss the many programs and resources available for those in need this winter and giving season.
It's also time for CCI's Annual Appeal! If you'd like to donate to support our programs helping individuals and families in Western Maine thrive, visit our Kindful page:
Community Concepts Inc | Kindful
Donations can also be mailed to our Lewiston office at:
240 Bates Street
Attn: Ruby Bean, Dir. of Development
Lewiston, ME 04240
Thank you!
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Join John and Kelsey and this weeks guests The Workforce Education Committee of the Oxford Hills Chamber of Commerce.
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Join John and Kelsey with special guests Grace Kendall and Elise Johansen with Safe Voices for this weeks community service outreach.
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Diane Madden and Stephanie LeBlond join us to share about the programs and services offered by the Cancer Resource Center of Western Maine.
The Cancer Resource Center serves cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, and anyone affected by cancer with support, education, and concepts in healthy living. Offerings include assistance with resource navigation, wellness programs and activities, support groups, therapy, comfort items, travel and food assistance, and more, all offered at no cost. The Center also has weekly drop-in hours at their Norway office, located at 59 Winter Street on the Stephens Memorial Hospital campus, from 9am-3pm every Thursday. Appointments are also available to schedule throughout the week.
Volunteers are always welcome to join The Cancer Resource Center team and opportunities are always available. Apply today!
To learn more about The Cancer Resource Center, visit their website.
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Ruth Burke and Claire Alexander with Community Concepts' Maine Families Program share about their work helping families in Androscoggin, Oxford, and Northern Cumberland Counties.
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Join John, Kelsey, Christian and special guests John and Dan Cronin of CGI on this weeks Community Service Update!
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
Follow CCI online and on social media:
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Meredith Cook with the Pink Feather Foundation joins us to share about the Foundation's work and mission to improve the lives of students by partnering with teachers to provide students with clothing and accessories at no cost.
Through the Foundation's unique design, students in need of clothing are given access to an online store where they can "shop" for items that fit their personal style. All items ordered are delivered to the student's school in a Pink Feather Foundation branded package within 2 business days. Students are given the option to bring the package home themselves or have a parent or guardian pick it up.
Pink Feather Foundation currently serves students and teachers in MSAD 17 and RSU 16.
Volunteer opportunities are available to help sort and organize donations, as well as fulfill orders.
To learn more, visit the Pink Feather Foundation's website or Facebook page.
Special thanks to Williams Broadcasting for producing our show.
Follow CCI online and on social media:
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Community Concepts is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Join John, Kelsey and Karen Henderson with the Workforce Development Service for this weeks Community Service Update.
Guests from The Table, a nonprofit based in Norway, join us to share about the many ways they serve our community, including weekly clothes giveaways, community breakfasts, group outdoor activity opportunities, and more!
Join Kelsey, John and special guests Alyson Holland and Susan Denoncour Director of Family Services for Community Services.
Join John, Kelsey and special guests Dianne Nelder and Kim Bessette with Community Concepts Head Start.
Join John, Kelsey and Christian with special guests Brendon, Beth and Emma with "Resilience Matters To Me"
Join John with co-hosts Kelsey and Ruby with Community Concepts, and special guests Shirley Boyce and Pat Ingersol with Responsible Pet Care talking about shelter dog, cats, pocket pets, adoption, needs and how to contribute!!
Join John, Ruby Bean with Community Concepts and Patty Rice with Rotary for this weeks Community Service Update!
Join John, Ruby and Christian with special guest Kari Taylor with Western Maine Addition Recovery Initiative, for this weeks Community Service Update.
Join Ruby, Kelsey and John with special guest Catherine Elliot with Avesta for this weeks Maine Community Service Update!
Special guest Peter Morton with Norway Paris Community Television (NPC-TV) joins us to share about the community access station for the Greater Oxford Hills region.
NPC-TV is an independent, 501 (c)3 non-profit corporation with a mission to strengthen the fabric of community life by providing communication tools, training and opportunities for individuals, nonprofit groups, governments and educational institutions.
NPC-TV programming can be found on cable channels 11 and 1302 in the Greater Oxford Hills area. You can also find video on demand on the station's website as well as their Vimeo account.
If you have an idea for a community-based television program, NPC-TV would love to hear from you! Call the NPC-TV office at (207)-743-7859 or visit their website to send a message.
June is National Homeownership Month, and Kevin Smart of Community Concepts Finance Corporation (CCFC) joins us for this week's episode to share about CCFC's mortgage and home improvement lending options.
CCFC offers loans for Maine residents who may not qualify for traditional lending. Kevin, a Business Advisor, Systems Administrator & Residential Loan Officer at CCFC, explains what options are available and how CCFC not only approves or denies loans, but also works with residents to help them increase their financial stability. Resources include an 8 hour Homebuyer's Education Course, Money Management classes, foreclosure prevention counseling, and more.
To learn more about CCFC's Homebuyer Resources, visit their website at:
Homebuyer Resources | Community Concepts Finance Corporation (ccfcmaine.org)
Questions? Contact CCFC today:
(207)-333-6419
Special guests Hollie Legee-Cressman and Stephanie Masland of Healthy Oxford Hills (HOH) join us to share about their work in the Oxford Hills region.
HOH promotes health and wellness among Maine's people with programs supporting active living, healthy eating, substance and tobacco use prevention, Covid-19 prevention, and more.
Learn more about HOH and how you can get involved at: www.healthyoxfordhills.org
Questions? Call HOH today!
Administration:
(207) 744-6190
Let’s Go!:
(207) 744-6195
Tobacco Prevention:
(207) 744-6193
Substance Use Prevention:
(207) 744-6192
Nutrition Education:
(207) 744-6197
Oxford County Wellness Collaborative:
(207) 744-6191
Join Kelsey, Christian and special guest Fatuma Hussein with the Immigrant Resource Center for this weeks Community Service Update
Join Ruby, Kelsey and John with special guest Kristen Short with Short Folks for Hope Foundation for this weeks Community Service Update!
Stephanie LeBlanc, Executive Director of Oxford County Mental Health Services (OCMHS) joins us with Ashlee Brooks, Clinical Program Manager, to share about OCMHS programs and services.
OCMHS offers crisis response, outpatient therapy for adults and children, residential care, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), behavioral health home services for adults and children, a community integration program, addiction services, and a consumer-operated service program called the Beacon House Peer Recovery Center. Find details on all of these programs on the OCMHS website.
If you are in need of immediate assistance, the Maine Crisis Line is available 24/7 at:
1-888-568-1112
If you are in need of any mental health services, contact OCMHS at 207-364-3030. Staff will be happy to talk with you about all of the programs available and what might be the best fit for you or your loved one. The OCMHS main office can also be reached at 207-364-3549.
Looking to get involved? Visit ocmhs.org to learn about volunteer, internship and advocacy opportunities.
Oxford County Touch-a-Truck 2022 is just a few days away, and we're back in person this year!
CCI's Alyson Holland, Community Educator, joins us to share all about the FREE event with fun for the whole family. Explore fire engines, police vehicles, ambulances, big rigs, and more at Oxford Hills High School from 11am-2pm on Saturday, May 21st.
Quiet hour will be held from 11am-12pm with no sirens or horns.
Food for purchase will be provided by Mainly Melts Food Truck, Shut Up N' Eat It!, Cool Treats for Charity, and Chenery's Cotton Candy.
Join us for a day of family fun with music, fire department displays & demonstrations, yard games, and more!
Special thanks to our event sponsors Ripley and Fletcher Ford, Oxford Federal Credit Union, Paris Farmers Union, and Wheeler's Insurance for making Oxford Touch-a-Truck 2022 possible!
Amanda and Aaron Ouellette, owners of Daddy O's Diner in Oxford, join us in studio to share about the restaurant's "Acts of Kindness Foundation," self-serve food pantry, community meals, and much more.
Daddy O's free food pantry is located in the restaurant's foyer at 1570 Main Street in Oxford. Anyone in need can pick up items at no cost during business hours. Collection bins are also located in the foyer for anyone wishing to make a donation of nonperishable food.
Community meals are held regularly at the diner, offering meals free-of-charge or by donation only. Donations collected during each community meal go directly to the Acts of Kindness Foundation or other local non-profits and programs serving Oxford Hills residents.
Since 2015, Daddy O's has raised more than $100,000 to give back to the Oxford Hills community. In 2021, through their “12 Days of Christmas” program, Daddy O's gave out $16,500 to area food pantries and non-profits. This is made possible by generous donations from community members to the Daddy O's Acts of Kindness Foundation throughout the year. Interested in getting involved? Join Daddy O's at their upcoming events:
CRUISE NIGHTS! Cruise Nights take place every Monday night through the summer, beginning May 23, 2022. Admission is free. Proceeds from the Cruise Night food sales on the first Monday of every month go directly to the Daddy O’s Acts of Kindness Foundation.
ANNUAL CAR SHOW! Mark your calendars! Daddy O's Annual Car Show will take place on Sunday, September 4, 2022.
Learn more about Daddy O's on their website, Facebook page, and the Daddy O's Acts of Kindness Facebook page.
Special guest Steve Wallace, CEO of the YMCA of Auburn-Lewiston, joins us to share about the organization's mission, history, and commitment to our communities. The Y offers a diverse range of healthy, fun and educational programs at three different locations in Auburn for kids, teens, and adults of all ages.
The Y has been part of the greater Auburn-Lewiston community for more than 100 years. The organization will soon be looking for a new home base and is always accepting donations! You can partner with the Y in a number of different ways, including volunteering, writing a check to support your favorite Y cause, and making an online donation.
Interested in becoming a member? Visit the YMCA of Auburn-Lewiston's website today!
Androscoggin Home Healthcare and Hospice joins us in studio to share about their health services and commitment to our communities.
Androscoggin is the largest non-profit healthcare provider in Maine, offering home health care, hospice, telehealth, bereavement support, palliative care, and other services across the state. With the agency's recent acquisition of Care and Comfort, Androscoggin is reaching more Maine communities than ever before.
We are excited to share that Androscoggin is supporting Community Concepts in 2022 through their AndroGIVES Program! Staff are participating in fundraisers and drives throughout the year to support CCI and will also participate in volunteer opportunities.
There are many ways to get involved with Androscoggin, including their Hike for Hospice fundraising event on May 14th. Registration is open now! All proceeds support Androscoggin’s hospice program to ensure all Mainers have access to high-quality hospice care, regardless of their ability to pay.
Contact Androscoggin today for more information or to connect with any of their services:
Website: www.androscoggin.org
Phone: 207-777-7740 or 1-800-482-7412
Social Media: Visit Androscoggin on Facebook
Special guest Sandy Albert, CCI's Director of Housing and Energy Services, joins us to share about her department's programs and services. We learn about LIHEAP, Self-Help Housing, Built By Me, weatherization and renovation services, and more!
Alyson Holland and Cassandra Wallace from Community Concepts' Family Services Department join us to raise awareness for Child Abuse Prevention Month, starting April 1, 2022. Listen to the full episode to hear about CCI's plans for the month of April, and learn about the work needed in all communities to ensure a better, safer future for all children.
Our Family Services Department offers Parenting Workshops and Provider Workshops each month to support parents and those working with children in our communities. Find the full list of workshops on our website.
To sign up for a workshop or if you have questions, please contact us at:
(Phone) 207-402-1621
(Email) parentworkshops@community-concepts.org
Stan Bennett, owner of Bennett Radio Group, joins us in studio to share how his local radio stations support our communities in many different ways!
Throughout the year, Community Concepts joins the morning shows on WIGY and WOXO to share about upcoming programs and events. Be sure to tune in to learn more and to hear from other local organizations!
Special guests Amanda Hatch and Crystal Parritt join us in studio to share about the programs and resources offered by the YWCA Central Maine.
The mission of the YWCA is to eliminate racism and empower women while promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Located in Lewiston, the YWCA Central Maine offers a variety of programs in social justice, childcare and youth activities, aquatics, food and nutrition, MS wellness, and more.
The YWCA's annual Stand Against Racism (SAR) Challenge begins April 4th! Previously known as the 21-Day Racial Equity and Social Justice Challenge, the SAR Challenge was developed by YWCA and adapted nationwide. The SAR Challenge is an exciting opportunity to dive deep into racial equity & social justice.
Participation helps folks discover how racial and social injustices impact their community, how to connect with others, and how to identify action steps to dismantle racism and other forms of discrimination.
Registration for the SAR Challenge is open now! Sign up today at: bit.ly/STAND4ME
On April 4th, you will have the option to download an app or visit the challenge website to engage with curated articles, podcasts, videos, activities, and more each day (M-F). For this year's challenge, YWCA will be investigating Critical Race Theory, Living Wage, Representation in Film and Television, and Reproductive Justice.
Learn more about the YWCA Central Maine and their programs at www.ywcamaine.org or by visiting them on social media @ywcamaine.
It's tax season, and we're here to help! In this week's episode, join Hosts Ruby, Kelsey and John with special guests Christian Ricci and Marjorie Millett to learn how you can file your taxes with Community Concepts Finance Corporation and L/A CA$H Coalition.
L/A CA$H is looking for volunteers to provide tax preparation services for eligible residents through the end of tax season. If you're looking for an opportunity to help your neighbors, L/A CA$H would love to hear from you. Visit their website to learn more and to sign up!
To file your taxes, you can schedule your appointment now for Scan & Go service in Lewiston or Auburn. Trained, IRS-certified volunteers will meet with you one-on-one to get your tax paperwork and ID information scanned and saved. Once your tax return is prepared, they'll then schedule a follow-up appointment (by phone or in-person) to review your completed tax return. Once reviewed and approved, they will then e-file for you.
Tax prep services are free to all those who qualify!
You can also securely send a photo or scan of your documents to the preparers online through GetYourRefund. A volunteer will contact you to get the process started and then will prepare and double-check your tax return to make sure it is correct before filing.
Any questions can be emailed to:
laca$h@community-concepts.org
Join hosts John, Ruby, Kelsey and special guests Christian Ritchie and Marjorie Millett with the Cash Coalition for Community Concepts.
Special Guest Lisa Rodrigues of The SHAREcenter joins Host Ruby Bean, Kelsey Cote, and Broadcaster John Williams in the studio.
The SHAREcenter's mission is to rescue reusable resources to support Maine's environment, education and economy. With a central location in Lewiston and an annex location in Topsham, The SHAREcenter "helps the helpers" throughout Maine communities by providing classroom materials, office supplies, arts and crafts materials, furniture and more through its co-op program. Schools, nonprofits, and municipalities pay a nominal annual fee to become a SHAREcenter member, and teachers and staff may then "shop" at either center location throughout the year for no additional charge. The donated, reusable resources available at The SHAREcenter not only provide valuable economic savings, but every piece of furniture and material is "saved" from filling up overflowing landfills.
Originally established over 20 years ago to provide teachers with basic STEM supplies collected from donors (paper towel tubes , plastic containers, glass jars etc.), The SHAREcenter has now grown to provide many different programswith much needed materials. Members are welcome from all over the state, and the organization hopes to grow to multiple centers throughout Maine to better serve more children and those most in need.
SHAREcenter Locations and Hours
Lewiston - 880 Lisbon Street (the old Martel School building)
Tuesdays and Wednesdays 2-4:45pm
The first two Saturdays of the month 9-11:45am
Topsham - 376 Republic Drive (directly across for Mt. Ararat Middle school)
Wednesdays 2-4:45pm
The third Saturday of the month 9-11:45am
Please note: SHAREcenter follows the Auburn Public School calendar and opens mid-August in preparation of the upcoming schoolyear. Both locations close at the beginning of June for summer break and to prepare for the following season.
Join the S.O.S. (Save Our SHAREcenter) Committee!The SHAREcenter will soon lose its home in Lewiston as plans are underway to tear down the old school building housing the center to build much needed new, affordable housing for the elderly. The SHAREcenter is dedicated to keeping this most needed program alive and growing, and is looking for a warehouse space with about 20 thousand square feet to support its current programming and planned growth in the future. More volunteers are always welcome!
For more information and to get involved, please visit The SHAREcenter on Facebook or call (207) 333-6671.
A special thanks to Broadcaster John Williams and the Williams Broadcasting Group for producing the podcast.
Bridget Nota joins Host Ruby Bean, Kelsey Cote, and Broadcaster John Williams to share about Community Concepts' Transportation Department services and volunteer opportunities.
Lack of transportation continues to be identified as one of the leading barriers to wellness for residents in Western Maine, and Community Concepts is here to help! Drivers provide rides, most at no cost, for seniors, veterans, cancer and dialysis patients, and other residents who need to get to and from medical appointments, grocery stores, shopping centers, school, errands, and more. Grant funding, contracts, and donations allow Community Concepts to provide most rides free-of-charge, and if a resident does not qualify for free transportation, rides can still be provided for a small fee.
All residents with MaineCare are qualified for free transportation. If you have MaineCare and would like to schedule a ride, please contact LogistiCare through their website.
VOLUNTEER DRIVERS ARE NEEDED! Drivers are reimbursed for all miles driven, and Community Concepts will work around your availability when scheduling rides. To sign up to volunteer and to learn more, please visit our website. We hope to hear from you soon!
Our Transportation Department is open 8am-4:30pm Monday-Friday to answer any questions and to schedule rides. Please call (207) 795-6073 if you need assistance!
Host Ruby Bean and Broadcaster John Williams chat with special guests Jean Delamater and Connie Allen of Rightstart, an all-volunteer organization that provides programs and services to children and teens throughout Oxford Hills.
Rightstart's mission began in 1979 during the International Year of the Child through efforts of the Norway-Paris Kiwanis Club. Since then, Rightstart has been providing assistance and programs, becoming a separate organization in 1980. The organization's five main programs are:
- Christmas for Kids - providing Christmas for families that may have little or no Christmas and serving more than 500 children each year
- Christmas for Teens - serving more than 200 teens each year who are from the eight towns of the Oxford Hills school district
- The Coat Room - distributing donated winter clothing to families from Oxford Hills from October through March
- The Book Swap - designed to give children greater access to reading materials in partnership with many PTA and PTO groups
- Summer Tutoring Program - certified teachers tutor qualified students from kindergarten through 3rd grade in math and reading
Rightstart accepts monetary donation and donations of toys, clothing or winter gear all year long. Any donated item must be new and not used. Donations can be sent to:
Rightstart, Inc.
PO Box 726
Norway, ME 04268
Volunteer opportunities are available!
For more information, contact:
Connie Allen
(Phone) 207-743-5728
(Email) connieallen6@gmail.com
Host Ruby Bean and Broadcaster John Williams welcome special guest Mia Purcell, Vice President of Economic Development and Impact at Community Concepts Finance Corporation, to discuss broadband in the State of Maine.
To learn more about access to broadband, be sure to check out these resources:
Maine West Broadband Boot Camp
Mahoosuc Community Broadband Committee
National Digital Equity Center
Give IT.GET IT
A special thanks to Broadcaster John Williams and the Williams Broadcasting Group and Studios for producing this podcast.
Host Ruby Bean, Broadcaster John Williams, and guest Kelsey Cote share the exciting plans in store for a new year of Community...What a Concept.
A special thanks to Broadcaster John Williams and the Williams Broadcasting Group for producing the podcast.
To learn more about Community Concepts' programs and services, visit our website at www.ccimaine.org.
Co-hosts Jenn Boenig and Ruby Bean learn about a new homeownership program called Built By ME. Sandy Albert Director, CCI's Director of Housing and Energy Services and Mike Sampson, the Program Manager, share the details about this program which provides homeownership opportunities for people looking to build a home in Lewiston or Auburn.
Built By ME is based on the Self-Help Housing model, a program that CCI has been offering since 1992. If you're interested in either program, you can contact Susan Bradford at sbradford@community-concepts.org or 207.739.6514.
Co-hosts Jenn Boenig and Ruby Bean talk Workforce Development with Karen Henderson, Community Concepts Workforce Development Manager.
They discuss programs to help people who have been impacted by COVID and the opioid crisis. They also talked about programs specifically for young adults, ages 16-24.
If you would like more information about Workforce Development, you can email workforce@community-concepts.org or call 207.491.1859 to speak with Karen directly. You can also learn more about EMDC (Easter Maine Development Corp) by visiting their website.
A special thanks to Broadcaster John Williams and the Williams Broadcasting Group for producing the podcast.
It's December and the holiday season as well as the giving season. Cohost Jenn Boenig and Kelsey Cote share why you should consider giving to Community Concepts.
Learn more about the organization and the work we do every day to support more than 22,000 community members every year.
If you'd like to make a donation, here's how you can do that:
- Call 207.520.9005
- Email giving@community-concepts.org and we'll send you a link
- Text GIVE to 1.207.204.3434
- Make an online donation
- Mail us a check, made out to Community Concepts, to 240 Bates Street, Lewiston, ME 04240.
A special thanks to John Williams and the Williams Broadcasting Group for producing our podcast.
Joining Jenn Boenig and Ruby Bean in this episode is Cassandra Wallace, the Community Coordinator of the Androscoggin Prevention Council for CCI's Family Services program.
Learn more about purple crying and how to prevent abusive head trauma in young children. November is also Abusive Head Trauma Awareness Month. By talking about purple crying and preparing parents and caregivers for this possible period in their young child's life, we can prevent abusive head trauma.
Anyone can reach out to parentworkshops@community-concepts.org to learn more about purple crying, safe sleep and other parenting resources. If you love to knit and want to provide hats and/or booties for babies, you can visit Click for Babies and if you'd like to learn more about purple crying, visit Purple Crying.
Thanks to John Williams and the Williams Broadcasting Group and Studios for producing this podcast.
In this episode, cohosts Jennifer Boenig and Ruby Bean learn there's a lot going on in the City of Auburn. Joining them are the Mayor of the City of Auburn, Jason Levesque and Glen Holmes, the Director of Business and Community Development for the City of Auburn.
The Mayor and Glen share more about making housing more attainable, how zoning and permitting ordinances have changed, getting $3.4 million from the federal government to address lead paint in homes, and an exciting new opportunity at Staples Connect which is opening on 89 Union Street in Auburn.
Check out Go Auburn and learn more about the city's revitalization plan and development opportunities.
Thanks to Broadcaster John Williams and the Williams Broadcasting Group for producing this podcast.
Cohosts Jenn Boenig and Ruby Bean talk transportation with Tina Payton, who is the associate director of transportation at CCI and Julie Miles who is a senior customer service representative at CCI.
Tina shared transportation continues to be identified as one of the leading barriers to wellness for Maine residents. If an individual has MaineCare, they are required to schedule their transportation rides through the statewide broker, ModivCare by calling 855.608.5180. ModivCare then distributes the rides among the various transportation providers, such as Community Concepts.
Anyone not having MaineCare can call Community Concepts' Transportation directly at 207.795.6073 to set up a ride.
CCI is always looking for volunteer drivers. Drivers do get reimbursed for mileage, undergo training and a background check, and drive their own vehicle. Interested in driving? Fill out our online application today!
Special thanks to Brodcaster John Williams and the Williams Broadcasting Group & Studios for producing this podcast.
In this episode, we're getting an inside look at the day in the life at one of our early learning centers. Jenn Boenig and Kelsey Cote, filling in for Ruby Bean, welcomed Chasidy Gould, the Fryeburg Early Learning Center site manager and Danielle Coe and her son Johnny, who participates in the early head start program. Our centers in Oxford and Franklin counties have spots available. Start the application process today!
A special thanks to Broadcaster John Williams and the Williams Broadcasting Group for producing the podcast.
Jennifer Boenig and Ruby Bean welcome special guest Marjorie Millett, the Homeownership Center Manager at Community Concepts Finance Corporation to talk about housing stability support services.
Whether you're renting, looking to purchase a home, or struggling as a homeowner, we can help! Our support services include Homebuyer's Education, Rental Assistance, Foreclosure Prevention and Financial Capabilities coaching. Take the first step and either call 207.333.6419 or visit CCFC online to register for an upcoming class or workshop today.
A special thanks to Broadcaster John Williams and the Williams Broadcasting Group and Studios for producing this podcast.
Jenn Boenig and Ruby Bean are joined by special guests Melissa Green, CCI's Director of Customer Service and Kate Dumais, CCI's Client Services Manager, to talk about the Emergency Rental Assistance Program.
ERA or the rent relief program is overseen by MaineHousing and provides rental and utility relief payments to help eligible renters. To start the application process, you can visit MaineHousing's website. The program is now accepting applications through September 2022.
If you are facing eviction, or fear you might, please contact Pine Tree Legal Assistance or Legal Services for the Elderly. They have funding to help you even if you don’t qualify for this program. Pine Tree Legal Assistance is also where you can find the Rights of Maine Renters information that Melissa referred to during the podcast. Just visit the Self-Help Rental Housing tab for a list of resources.
A special thanks to Broadcaster John Williams and the Williams Broadcasting Group for producing this podcast.
Jenn Boenig and Ruby Bean are joined by Community Concepts Energy Manager Lisa McGee to talk about the Home Energy Assistance Program or HEAP.
During the last heating season, Community Concepts processed 6,815 applications and found 5,139 households eligible for this supplemental fuel assistance program.
Thanks to Broadcaster John Williams and the Williams Broadcasting Group and Studios for producing this podcast!
Join Broadcaster John Williams and co-hosts Jennifer Boenig and Ruby Bean with special guests Nate Libby, President of CCFC and Chris DeCato, Vice President of Client Service Operations for this week's episode. CCFC turned 20 on September 17, 2021 and over the years, CCFC has grown and expanded its programs and services.
CCFC has also invested nearly $50 million into the State of Maine through three main areas: business lending, economic development and the homeownership center.
Joining Jenn Boenig and Ruby Bean is Dennis Lajoie, the former Chief Executive Officer of Community Concepts Finance Corporation (CCFC) and current Norway Town Manager. Dennis talks about how CCFC started 20 years ago in September 2001 and how it evolved into the organization it is today.
Special thanks to John Williams and the Williams Broadcasting Group and Studios for producing our podcast.
Joining Jenn Boenig and Ruby Bean on this episode is Alyson Holland, a Community Educator with Community Concepts. They're talking about diapers. Yes, diapers! National Diaper Need Awareness Week is September 25 through October 2. Community Concepts is raising funds and collecting diapers and wipes for Oxford County's littlest residents. We're also having a collection/drop-off event with WOXO's Stan and Heidi in the Community Concepts South Paris parking lot on Monday, September 27 from 11 AM to 1 PM. Come by and say hello!
Studio and production shout-out to John Williams and the Williams Broadcasting Group.
This episode focuses on Growing Our Tree Streets, a transformation plan for Lewiston's Tree Streets neighborhood. Joining cohosts Jenn Boenig and Ruby Bean are Misty Parker, the Economic Development Manager for the City of Lewiston and Chris Kilmurry, the Executive Director of Lewiston Housing Authority (LHA).
The City of Lewiston and LHA were awarded a $30 million grant from HUD to implement the transformation plan. Learn all about how that plan came together and the housing aspect of that plan.
We will continue our conversation about Growing Our Tree Streets in future episodes so look for those in the weeks to come.
Hosts Jenn Boenig and Ruby Bean are joined by Kim Bessette, the Associate Director of Children's Services and Ashley Herrick, a program manager with Children's Services. They discuss the Head Start preschool and Pre-K programs offered in Oxford and Franklin counties.
Our Head Start programs have rolling enrollment so you can sign up at any time. Call 207.739.6538 or email headstart@community-concepts.org for more information. You can also visit our website, ccimaine.org and look for the head start tab near the top of the home page.
This podcast is recorded and produced by John Williams at his Williams Broadcasting Group and Studios.
In this episode, we learn about Early Head Start and what's the difference between Early Head Start and Head Start.
Co-hosts Jenn Boenig and Ruby Bean speak with Dianne Nelder, the Director of Children's Services and Kim Bessette, the Assistant Director of Children's Services, to learn about the program and supports we offer to families.
Community Concepts Early Head Start and Head Start programs are based in Oxford and Franklin counties and are always enrolling new families. Call 207.739.6538 or email headstart@community-concepts.org for more information and to start the enrollment process.
Joining hosts Jennifer Boenig and Ruby Bean in this episode are Susan Jouard and Lynn Peterson from NeighborWorks America. Learn more about this national organization dedicated to creating opportunities for people to live in affordable homes, improve their lives and strengthen their communities.
At the foundation of NeighborWorks America are more than 240 network organizations all across the country and Community Concepts is proud to be a chartered member in good standing with NeighborWorks America.
Learn more about NeighborWorks America by visiting neighborworks.org and listening to this podcast. We'll talk about the NeighborWorks mission, how Community Concepts fits into the network, NeighborWorks Week, the Stop Home Scams campaign and so much more.
In this episode, Alyson Holland and Jennifer Leonard join your hosts, Jenn Boenig and Ruby Bean, to talk about all the education opportunities for families and the community.
Anyone who has a connection with a child can benefit from these educational opportunities. Alyson and Jennifer share more details about those opportunities.
To register or for more information on these programs, you can call 207.402. 1621 or email parentworkshops@community-concepts.org. You can find a complete list of opportunities on our website at https://www.ccimaine.org/children-assistance-network
Joining Jenn Boenig is Tammy Beaulieu and Ruth Burke who are part of the Maine Families program through Community Concepts. You'll learn more about the program which partners with families during pregnancy until the youngest child turns three years old.
For more information about the Maine Families program, you can email infomainefamilies@community-concepts.org or call Danielle at 207.402.1621.
Community Concepts has child abuse prevention councils in both Androscoggin and Oxford counties and joining us in this episode is Melissa Wakefield and Cassandra Wallace who will share more about the council and its work.
No one likes to think about a child being hurt or neglected, but unfortunately that does happen in our community. However, there are things we can do to support children and families. You'll learn more about Pinwheels for Prevention and the new statewide initiative, the Front Porch Project in this episode.
If you're a parent in need of support or a concerned community member, you can always contact the child report hotline at 800.452.1999.
If you want to plant a pinwheel garden or learn more about the Front Porch Project, contact Cassandra Wallace at 207.713.9759.
It's our very first episode of Community... What a Concept, the official podcast of Community Concepts.
During this episode, you will meet your hosts, Jenn Boenig and Ruby Bean, along with Shawn Yardley, CEO of Community Concepts and Laura Gormley, CFO of Community Concepts.
We discuss the history of Community Action partnerships and how we provide greater opportunity for the entire community. We also share how the community needs assessment shapes our work and Shawn talks about how we start with “yes” when exploring new programs and services.
Shawn and Laura also touch on the financial side of things and how we serve thousands of people, directly and indirectly, every year.
Jenn and Ruby also outline the six key program areas: children and families; home; energy; transportation; workforce development; and business and economic development.