Public Events

UMC partners with American Flatbread for their December Pizza for a Cause Night

January 13, 2026By

United Midcoast Charities was proud to be named a beneficiary of American Flatbread Rockport’s ongoing Pizza for a Cause program, which regularly supports local organizations through community fundraising nights.

To add a little extra fun, UMC encouraged an Ugly Sweater twist, inviting community members to lean into the season while enjoying pizza or takeout. The playful theme helped draw families and friends together, turning a regular night out into an easy way to give back.

A portion of all sales from the evening supported United Midcoast Charities and the nonprofit organizations it helps strengthen across Midcoast Maine, with a focus on food, housing, health and safety, and economic security. The event reflected the power of small, accessible moments of generosity and the value of partnerships that make giving feel welcoming rather than overwhelming.

United Midcoast Charities is grateful to American Flatbread Rockport for including UMC in its Pizza for a Cause program and thanks everyone who participated for helping turn a fun night into meaningful community support.

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Public Events

UMC hosts 3rd Annual Gingerbread Spectacular

December 8, 2025By

What a joyful weekend at United Midcoast Charities’ Gingerbread Spectacular, held during Camden’s Christmas by the Sea! We loved welcoming community members who stopped in to admire the creations, vote for favorites, learn more about UMC, and snap a photo with our giant gingerbread man.

Thank you to everyone who baked, built, visited, voted, bid, and donated — your enthusiasm made this event truly special. A special shout-out to Coastal Community Recovery Center and Midcoast Regional Housing Trust, two UMC grantees who shared their missions while showcasing incredible gingerbread creations.

2025 Gingerbread Spectacular Winners

• 1st Place Adult Professional: Jessica Bailey
• 1st Place Adult Amateur: Beverly Scott
• 2nd Place Adult Amateur: Bangor Savings Bank
• 3rd Place Adult Amateur: Karrie Tribbe
• 1st Place Youth: Marissa Gildred
• 2nd Place Youth: Ava Croce
• 3rd Place Youth: Kara Croce
• People’s Choice Award: Scott’s Place

A heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors who made it all possible:

16 Bay View Hotel, Adventure Advertising, Brio Custom, Wallace Events, Maine Coast Construction, Lie-Nielsen Toolworks, and Midcoast Villager.

Events like this remind us how much creativity, generosity, and holiday spirit live in our community — and we’re so grateful to everyone who helped make the Gingerbread Spectacular a sweet success.

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Public Events

Otter Tee Auction Raises $1,450 for UMC’s Urgent Needs Grant Pool

November 15, 2025By

United Midcoast Charities recently hosted a special Otter Tee Auction after a generous local community member donated one of the newly reissued Otter T-shirts that gained national attention after being worn by Taylor Swift and sparking millions in charitable giving. The shirts sold out almost immediately and are now extremely difficult to find, creating a unique opportunity to raise funds locally.

UMC launched the auction to support its Urgent Needs Grant pool, with a focus on helping feed Midcoast families while SNAP benefits remained in limbo. The fundraiser highlighted a simple but urgent truth: no parent should have to wonder how they will feed their children in the coming weeks.

The online auction raised a total of $1,450 for local food programs. United Midcoast Charities extends special thanks to Lisa Gorman of Yarmouth, whose winning bid, along with additional donations, made the fundraiser a success. These funds will help UMC provide timely support to neighbors facing food insecurity across Knox and Waldo Counties.

UMC also offers sincere gratitude to the local community member who donated the hard-to-find otter tee, making it possible to turn a moment of national attention into meaningful impact for Midcoast Maine families.

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Events

Christopher Beebe Receives 2025 Award for Philanthropic Excellence

September 22, 2025By

United Midcoast Charities Presents Award for Philanthropic Excellence to Christopher Beebe at Rising Tide Party

United Midcoast Charities (UMC) presented its 2025 Award for Philanthropic Excellence to Christopher Beebe during its annual Rising Tide Party, held Thursday, August 21, at the Sail, Power & Steam Museum Boathouse in Rockland. The event welcomed community members, donors, and nonprofit partners for an evening celebrating the strength of local philanthropy and the impact of collective giving.

The award presentation was one of several moments that highlighted the generosity of the Midcoast community. Beebe was honored for his lifelong commitment to civic engagement and philanthropy. A consistent and trusted advocate for the region, he served on UMC’s board of directors for nine years, concluding his term in December 2024, and has long been recognized as a Community Champion. His support spans decades and has impacted thousands across the Midcoast.

As co-founder of Steel-Pro in Rockland, Beebe helped grow the company into a nationally respected manufacturer of custom stainless-steel products. In 2014, he transitioned the business to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), ensuring its continued success would benefit local employees. Alongside his late wife, Charlotte, he made a transformative gift to establish the Charlotte and Christopher Beebe Health Center at Pen Bay Medical Center, expanding access to primary care and pediatric services for thousands of Midcoast residents.

“Christopher Beebe embodies the spirit of community philanthropy,” said Jim Hengerer, Board Chair of United Midcoast Charities. “His generosity and quiet leadership have helped shape the Midcoast in lasting ways. We’re proud to recognize his legacy as part of an evening that celebrates the power of giving.”

Looking ahead, UMC will open up the nomination process for the Award for Philanthropic Excellence to the broader Midcoast community beginning in January 2026. This new approach will invite public participation in recognizing individuals whose generosity strengthens life in Knox and Waldo counties—ensuring the award reflects the voices and values of the region.

The Rising Tide Party was made possible thanks to the generous support of Cellardoor Winery, Maine State Credit Union, Bangor Savings Bank, Machias Savings Bank, Front Street Shipyard, O’Hara Corporation, and CedarWorks. Their partnership helped create a memorable evening that underscored the essential role of philanthropy in sustaining local nonprofit programs.

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Agency Events

Permission to Pause: A Different Kind of LEARN@UMC

June 25, 2025By

On June 18, we tried something new.

Instead of another skills-based training or panel discussion, LEARN@UMC invited nonprofit leaders across Knox and Waldo Counties to do one radical thing: intentionally practice self-care.

It was a 90-minute window set aside for intentional self-care—no Zoom link, no agenda, no to-do list. Just time to be.

The work of caring for our communities never lets up. As funding shifts and need grows, nonprofit professionals are often the ones holding everything together. But that kind of responsibility takes a toll. So we created space to breathe.

Ten people RSVP’d and five followed through with the full 90-minute experience. And the stories they shared afterward? Honest, grounded, and deeply human.

Some chose movement—walking outside or joining a virtual wellness program. Others connected with loved ones or allowed themselves a slower morning. Each reflection was a powerful reminder that small, intentional acts of self-care are not just restorative—they’re essential.

To encourage participation and celebrate everyone who made time to care for themselves, we offered a special incentive: each person who submitted a reflection was entered into a drawing to win a 60-minute massage gift certificate. A small gesture, but one that underscores just how much rest and restoration matter—especially for those doing hard work in service of others.

Below, we’ve gathered participant photos and reflections. We hope they inspire you to carve out your own moments of rest and reflection in the days ahead. Because you can’t pour from an empty cup—and you shouldn’t have to try.

Thank you to all who participated. And congratulations to our massage gift certificate winner!

👇 See how your fellow changemakers spent their time.

In between the raindrops, I got to weed a section of my front patio, while listening to a self-help podcast. I also purchased one of many flowers that will be planted this weekend in our yard. It was a nice respite from budget emails and meetings and I could take my stress out on pesky weeds!

 

 

Even though my morning was full of interruptions and demands, I stuck to my commitment of self-care. As I walked down a path on our campus I was being watched by a doe. Her presence centered me as she stood still, as if she was giving me permission to find my stillness.

My time was finally used for joining an online yoga, nutrition, and healthy choices tracking app with a 24/7 coach who helps keep me accountable with electronic journaling of daily health related activities. I’m already noticing more energy from healthier food and exercise choices. Who knew?!

 

 

Spending extra time with my 94‑year‑old mother provides invaluable emotional support to us both. These moments also honor her life’s story and wisdom, while creating shared memories that enrich both her sense of purpose and my own.

Today as I practiced what I was preaching. . . I turned off my alarm and woke up when my body naturally wanted to and still gave myself time to exercise. So often I choose between waking up early to exercise or catching a few extra zzzz’s today I got to do both! Self-care and boundaries are so important. For years I’ve coached employees, friends, family that if you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t have what it takes to successfully care of anything else this world throws at you.

 

 

 

 

I was on vacation for this event. [Taking care of myself!] Being in the woods after a motorcycle ride is so freeing. There’s nothing like it.

10 Easy Self-Care Ideas You Can Do at Your Desk

If a full 90-minute break feels out of reach, try one of these 10-minute resets during your day:

  1. Breathe deeply – Try a simple 4-7-8 breathing exercise to reset your nervous system.

  2. Stretch it out – Stand up, reach for the sky, and roll your shoulders. Your body will thank you.

  3. Make a real cup of tea or coffee – Step away from your screen while it brews, and sip it slowly.

  4. Write a gratitude list – Just 3 things. It shifts perspective fast.

  5. Listen to one favorite song – Really listen. Maybe even dance in your chair.

  6. Go outside for fresh air – Even a few minutes in nature can calm your mind.

  7. Look at something beautiful – Art, photos, or a plant. Let your eyes rest on something you enjoy.

  8. Do a 10-minute guided meditation – Use apps like Insight Timer, Headspace, or Calm.

  9. Journal one page – Dump your thoughts or answer a simple prompt like “How do I feel right now?”

  10. Reach out to a friend – Send a quick message just to say hi. Connection is care.

You deserve time to care for yourself—at work and beyond. Let this be your reminder.

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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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Day of Giving Participating locationEvents

8th Annual Day of Giving

January 24, 2025By

On Saturday, December 21, local businesses from Searsport to Thomaston and community members came together in the spirit of generosity and cooperation during UMC’s annual Day of Giving. On this special day, participating businesses pledged a portion of the day’s sales to support UMC’s Grants Program. The event not only bolstered our fundraising efforts but also highlighted the incredible power of community solidarity.

We are deeply grateful for the support of the local businesses and the enthusiastic participation of everyone who shopped, dined, and contributed to this event. Together, we are making a difference.

See all participating businesses here.

Photo above shows 2024 Day of Giving collection box at Winifred and Evalyn in Rockland.

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Boys with Wasses Hot Dog Stand Gingerbread HouseEvents

2nd Annual Gingerbread Contest

January 24, 2025By

During Camden’s festive “Christmas By The Sea” weekend, our Gingerbread House Contest & Exhibition drew in a crowd of enthusiastic participants and visitors. In its second year, the event saw a remarkable doubling in attendance, as families and friends gathered to marvel at the creativity on display and vote for their favorite gingerbread creations. Beyond the fun, and monies raised for UMC’s Grants Program, this event provided an excellent opportunity to educate the community about the critical needs UMC addresses.

    • 1st Place Adult Amateur & People’s Choice Award – Jessica Bailey
    • 2nd Place Adult Amateur – Barbara Bauldaman
    • 3d Place Adult Amateur – Justin Cristiansen
    • 1st Place Youth Amateur – James Kivel
    • 2nd Place Youth Amateur – Victoria Mason
    • 3rd Place Youth Amateur – Nataly Turner-Watts
    • 1st Place Professional – Stephen Watts
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Public Events

12 Days of Giving

January 12, 2025By

This December, United Midcoast Charities was thrilled to see a longtime tradition take new shape with our reimagined 12 Days of Giving. Expanding our former Day of Giving created more opportunities to shop local, give local, and support the Midcoast nonprofits and neighbors who rely on a strong community safety net.

Twenty-six local businesses participated, each giving back in their own way — from donating a portion of sales to matching customer gifts and offering special promotions. A big thank-you to The Green Store in Belfast, which kicked things off by donating 32% of sales during its anniversary weekend, and to all our partners who kept the momentum going throughout the event.

We’re deeply grateful to every participating business, every customer who chose to shop local, and our generous 12 Days of Giving sponsor, Allen Insurance & Financial. Together, you helped strengthen our local economy while supporting food access, housing stability, health and safety, and economic security across Knox and Waldo Counties.

And we’re not stopping there — in 2026, we’re expanding to 25 Days of Giving, opening the door to even more local businesses and even more community impact.

Thank you to the local businesses below and to everyone who shopped locally, helping strengthen the local economy and support our community during the 12 Days of Giving.

 

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Agency Events

Advocating for Hope & Kindness

September 5, 2024By

United Midcoast Charities Annual Grantee Breakfast to Participate in Live, Virtual Global Conversation on Advocating for Hope and Kindness

On September 11, during National Compassionate Leadership Week, author and philanthropist Donato Tramuto, of the TramutoPorter Foundation, will host a live conversation at United Midcoast Charities’ Annual Grantee Breakfast Celebration sponsored by the Samoset Resort in Rockport. Tramuto, speaking from Maine, will be joined virtually by 2014 Nobel Peace Prize winner Kailash Satyarthi, who will participate via Zoom from India. This conversation, held on the anniversary of September 11, will examine the crucial role of compassion in leadership and its healing power. Community members can register for the free virtual event here: https://tramutofoundation.com/compassion/2024-summit/

National Compassionate Leadership Week honors leaders who use empathy to drive success in business, education, and community. This week highlights the proven benefits of compassionate leadership and its positive impact on all areas of life. “Our goal is to create a movement that brings more compassion into every part of life,” said Tramuto. “By honoring those who lead with compassion, we aim to build momentum and make a lasting impact.”

UMC is proud to partner with the TramutoPorter Foundation as the host of what is being recognized as a major highlight of the week’s agenda.

This year, United Midcoast Charities is distributing grants totaling $630,000 to 42 agencies providing the basic needs of food, housing, health & safety, and economic security to residents of Knox and Waldo counties. We couldn’t think of a more inspiring topic for an event dedicated to leaders who are committed to compassionate leadership within their own organizations.

About Donato J. Tramuto

Donato J. Tramuto is the former CEO of Tivity Health®, Inc. (Nasdaq: TVTY). He is widely recognized for his commitment to social change and transformational leadership in healthcare innovation, which led the New York Times to deem him “a global health activist.”

Tramuto is also the founder and chair of The TramutoPorter Foundation, which advances young people’s rights to education and healthcare access and combats human rights violations. He launched the foundation in memory of his two friends and their three-year-old son, who lost their lives on 9/11 when United Flight 175 crashed into the South Tower. Tramuto had planned to be on that flight; however, he never joined his friends due to a toothache. Since the foundation’s launch, over 100 young adults have received a TramutoPorter Foundation Scholarship to pursue their dream of a College Education. Many organizations have received financial and partnership support, helping them deliver on their promise to make the world a more equitable place.

His three-decade commitment to social change and innovation has earned numerous awards, including the prestigious Robert F. Kennedy Ripple of Hope (2014) and the RFK Embracing His Legacy Awards (2016). He also received the PharmaVoice RedJacet award presented to leaders in the Life Sciences Industry who have shown what it means to be an inspired leader for their teams, their companies, their communities, and the industry at large.

Tramuto currently serves as a member of the board of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights and is chairman of its Leadership Council, where his foundation has committed to funding a three-year, $1 million grant to address workplace bullying, leading a national initiative to address workplace dignity and inclusion in the U.S. and Europe.

To learn more about Donato Tramuto visit https://www.tramutofoundation.org

About Kailash Satyarthi

2014 Nobel Peace Prize Winner, Kailash Satyarthi is a human rights activist from India who has been at the forefront of the global movement to end child slavery and exploitation since 1980, when he gave up a lucrative career as an electrical engineer to initiate a crusade against child servitude. As a grassroots activist, Kailash and the grassroots movement he founded, Bachpan Bachao Andolan (English: Save Childhood Movement), have liberated more than 83,000 children from exploitation and developed a successful model for their education, rehabilitation, and reintegration into mainstream society. As a worldwide campaigner, he has been the architect of the largest civil society network for the most exploited children, the Global March Against Child Labour, a worldwide coalition of children’s rights organizations, teachers’ unions, and trade unions. His efforts led to the adoption of ILO Convention 182 on the worst forms of child labor in 1999. He is also the founding president of the Global Campaign for Education, an exemplary civil society movement working to end the global education crisis, and GoodWeave International, which raises consumer awareness and positive action in the carpet industry.

For more on Kailash Satyarthi and his passionate work over the years, visit https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/peace/2014/satyarthi/biographical/

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