September Newsletter 2026 | |
As summer begins to wind down, September brings a fresh start, familiar routines, and plenty to look forward to. With students heading back to school, we encourage everyone to slow down, watch for school buses, be mindful of children at bus stops and crosswalks, and help keep our communities safe during the busy morning and afternoon commute.
September also gives us the opportunity to pause and recognize Labor Day, a time to celebrate the hard work and dedication of individuals across our communities, including the incredible staff who make OEI's mission possible every day. Please note that all Opportunity Enterprises, Inc. office locations will be closed on Monday, September 7, in observance of Labor Day. We hope everyone enjoys a safe, relaxing holiday with family and friends. As we turn the page to a new season, we're excited to share another month of stories, accomplishments, upcoming events, and moments worth celebrating across the OEI family. Whether you're a participant, family member, employee, volunteer, or community partner, thank you for being an important part of our journey. Here's to a wonderful September filled with kindness, connection, and new opportunities.
| Rising Stars Therapeutic Farm | |
We’re definitely feeling the shift into fall around here, and we’re not mad about it. The mornings are a little cooler, the days are getting shorter, and there’s that unmistakable feeling that a new season is just around the corner. Fallllll is coming, friends. ❤️❤️
We have lots happening at the farm this month, so be sure to check out our upcoming Farm Events Calendar below and mark your calendars.
And don’t forget to RSVP with Emily at ewillett@oeime.org, or simply let her know in person when you see her at the farm. RSVPs help us plan properly for each event and make sure we’re prepared for everyone who wants to join in on the fun.
We’re looking forward to another great month at the farm and soaking up every bit of this beautiful transition into fall.
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Say hello to our newest little farm visitors, Juno & Andy!
These two adorable Great Pyrenees siblings from Western Maine Great Pyrenees Rescue are staying with us here at the farm for a little while, and they have already become the cutest temporary additions to our farm family.
Lady absolutely LOVES having these two little pups around and has happily taken on the role of their farm-life babysitter. She has some new friends to keep an eye on, and honestly, she seems pretty pleased about it.
We’re so happy to have Juno & Andy spending some time with us and can’t wait to see what kind of puppy adventures they get into while they’re here!
Welcome to the farm, you two. We’re glad to have you!
| The Cupcakery Cafe & Bake Shop |
They'rrrrreee baaaaack!
Fall has officially made its way into The Cupcakery, and we are sooo ready to welcome back some of our favorite autumn seasonal cupcakes. From now until December 1st, Pumpkin Spice, Chai, Caramel Apple, and Brown Butter Pecan are back on the menu, bringing all those warm, cozy fall flavors we’ve been waiting for.
And let’s be honest, the smell of those warm fall spices has awakened our spooky side too. Keep an eye out because spooky season designs are coming soon, and we already have some fun things brewing in the kitchen.
In a hurry or don’t feel like waiting in line? You can order online ahead of time for convenient pickup, so your treats are ready when you arrive. You can also DoorDash your Cupcakery favorites straight to your door.
Fall flavors, cozy drinks, spooky designs, and cupcakes. It really is the most wonderful time of the year.
#ItsTheMostWonderfulTimeOfTheYear
| Starfish Greenhouse & Farm Stand | Gardening by the Moon has been part of traditional gardening wisdom for generations, with the Moon’s phases believed to influence when we should plant, tend, and harvest. It’s an old-fashioned practice rooted in observation, nature, and the rhythms of the seasons, and it remains a beloved part of the Farmer's Almanac philosophy. 🌙🌱 | Click on image above to learn more | Out & About in the Community |
| Riding in the fire truck for the Andover Olde Home Days parade | |
Feeding the hungry deer
| A little sidewalk chalk autograph | |
Delivering Meals on Wheels
| It's impossible not to smile on the Scrambler! | Savoring every moment outside while it's still so seasonable | | |
Paddle boat ride anyone?
| Enjoying an ice cream social at the Canton Volunteer Fire Dept. | |
Getting our trail hike on!
| What's better than fairground fries?! | Soaking up the vitamin D! | | |
Joe Lapointe - Direct Support Professional
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OEI Star of the Month: Rachel
Rachel is truly one of a kind, and we are so lucky to have her on our team. She brings kindness, compassion, and genuine care into everything she does. The people we support feel safe, valued, and understood because of the meaningful connections she creates with them.
Rachel has a natural ability to make everyone feel important, and that is something you simply cannot teach. She goes above and beyond every day, not for recognition, but because that is who she is. She is thoughtful, patient, creative, and always looking for ways to make someone’s day a little brighter. Her positive attitude and warm smile have a way of lifting everyone around her.
Rachel is a true gem. She leads with her heart, supports others without hesitation, and represents so much of what we hope for in our team. Her dedication and compassion make a real difference every single day.
Thank you, Rachel, for everything you do. This recognition is so well deserved, and we are proud to celebrate you as our September Star of the Month.
Congratulations, Rachel!
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August was all about giving back to the people who help our communities grow. Through our “Adopt a Classroom” kindness activity, we had the opportunity to show appreciation for local educators and students as they prepared for another school year. From donating much-needed classroom supplies to offering a little encouragement, our goal was simple: help make the start of the school year a little brighter.
We are grateful to everyone who participated and helped us spread kindness in our community. Small acts of generosity can make a meaningful difference, and we loved seeing our OEI community come together to support the classrooms, teachers, and students who make our communities stronger.
| | | Setting up a classroom takes teamwork! | |
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| Opportunity Enterprises, Inc. | 400 Center Street | Auburn, ME 04210 US | | | | |
