Public Events

UMC Hosts Successful Volunteer Recruitment Expo

March 17, 2025By

On Tuesday, March 11 United Midcoast Charities brought the community together for its Volunteer Recruitment Expo at the Flanagan Center in Rockland.  Community members interested in volunteering were greeted by representatives from dozens of local organizations looking for support. Attendees explored how their passions and skills could best align with volunteer opportunities while engaging directly with representatives who were there to answer their questions.

“A big thanks to UMC for arranging the Volunteer Expo,” said Alan Kearl, Executive Director – AIO Food and Energy Assistance. “For some people, it is too intimidating to call or to walk into AIO off the street. The Volunteer Expo created a level playing field where community members could learn about several possible places to volunteer in a common space without the pressure of committing to volunteer at any one before they are ready. “

Beyond connecting with the community, participating businesses benefited from the rare chance to network with their peers, fostering collaboration and camaraderie. The energy of having everyone gathered in the same space made the event a tremendous success for all involved. So successful, in fact, that UMC has already begun the planning of a Waldo County Volunteer Expo. Stay tuned for more details!

Thank you to our event sponsors, The City of Rockland, 106.9 Frank FM, and 105.5 The Wolf.

Check out a short video of the expo here!

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UMC Grant Application Window Open March 1 – March 31

February 28, 2025By

United Midcoast Charities (UMC) is excited to announce our annual grant application window opens on March 1. Nonprofit organizations serving the residents of Knox and Waldo County in the areas of food, housing, health and safety, and economic security are invited to apply.

 

“I’m honored to be stepping into the role of Grant Committee Chair at such a pivotal time,” said Larrain Slaymaker, the newly appointed chair of UMC’s Grant Committee. “We’re eagerly looking forward to receiving applications from organizations dedicated to making a real difference in our community. Our drive remains steadfast—to support initiatives that provide essential services, drive positive change, and enhance the quality of life for Knox and Waldo County residents.”

For nonprofits planning to apply for a UMC grant this year, you are invited to attend a Q&A with UMC staff and members of our Grants Committee at our Camden office on March 12 from 9-10:30am. Registration is required as space is limited. Please email admin@unitedmidcoastcharities.org to register.

The application window closes at 5:00 p.m. on March 31, so make sure to submit by then. Visit unitedmidcoastcharities.org/apply-for-a-grant/ for more details and to apply.

 

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News

UMC Hosts Nonprofit Grant Writing Workshop

February 28, 2025By

On Wednesday, February 12, UMC partnered with Rebecca Green of Amplify Nonprofit Consulting in Waterville, Maine to present a workshop on Grant Writing for Nonprofits.

Rebecca is an experienced administrator, educator, and writer who combines versatile communication skills with an insider’s knowledge of successful nonprofit management. She has experience working with social services, youth development, and arts organizations. She co-founded the nonprofit Elm City Music School in 2024 and has served as a city councilor in Waterville since 2020. Rebecca will share her expertise in proposal writing – including budget development and program design – and discuss developing systems for organizing grant submissions and reports.

The workshop was a resounding success, drawing a diverse group of participants eager to learn and engage. The well-attended event provided invaluable insights into the intricacies of crafting compelling grant proposals, with expert guidance and interactive discussions. Attendees had the opportunity to ask pertinent questions, leading to a dynamic exchange of ideas and practical tips. The positive feedback received underscores the importance of such initiatives in empowering local organizations and fostering community growth. With UMC’s Grant Submission window opening on March 1, this timely topic could not have come at a better moment, preparing participants for the upcoming grant application process.

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