May 2023
WHAT'S NEW
National Panel Discusses Housing Solutions
CEO Kara Hay joined our colleagues and friends in San Francisco, CA, for a NeighborWorks America Training Institute to moderate a panel discussion with housing experts from across the country who shared innovative solutions to addressing the housing crisis. Kara shared information about Penquis' partnership with the University of Maine and MaineHousing to develop the nation's first 100% bio-based 3D-printed home and neighborhood. Read more about the project here.
Theresa's Place to Begin Renovations
We were so thankful for the opportunity to share the future location of “Theresa’s Place” in Bangor with Speaker Talbot-Ross and Representative Roeder recently. Theresa’s Place will provide long-term housing and support services to 41 individuals who have experienced chronic homelessness. Renovations will begin next month.
May is Community Action Month!
Community Action Agencies across the state of Maine served 127,107 individuals in 2021-2022. Individuals were assisted through a variety of programs and services that aimed to empower individuals and families by creating opportunities for all people to thrive!
Are you in the loop?
Are you interested in learning more about what Penquis has to offer? Several times a year, we send a “Programs and Services” email to people interested in learning about our services. It’s an opportunity to read about the latest programs available to the community. Click here for the latest newsletter. To be added to the mailing list, sign up here!
Support Special Olympics Athletes!
Penquis' CWSS athletes are preparing for the Special Olympics Summer Games being held on June 9th, 10th and 11th at the University of Maine in Orono! The athletes are super excited to be able to compete in-person again and are very much looking forward to seeing their friends, competing in events they have been training for, and making new memories together.

We want everyone to join in the excitement and show your support for the athletes by purchasing a 2023 Special Olympics t-shirt (pictured above). The t-shirts will be worn by the CWSS athletes and their supporters during the 2023 Special Olympics Summer Games. The back of the t-shirts include our generous sponsors - Rowell's Garage and Car Wash, Bears Den Restaurant, Motel & Tavern, Engstrom's Auto Service and Domino's! Thank you for your support!

T-shirts are $20 each and available in unisex sizing - size small to 4XL.
Order your t-shirt(s) here by May 19th!
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
When people call, text, or chat 988, they will be connected to trained counselors who are part of the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline network. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary.
Penquis offers several programs to support behavioral health needs and access to care, including a Behavioral Health Navigator, Behavioral Health Home program, Behavioral Health Residential Supported Living Services, and Rehabilitative and Community Support Services for Children with Cognitive Impairments and Functional Limitations ("Section 28"). To learn more, visit our website or call us at 207-973-3500 or 1-800-215-4942.
COMMUNITY ACTION YOUR WAY!
There are unlimited ways to make a difference in your community! See below for just a few of the opportunities this month!
For the month of May, Chick-fil-A in Bangor will be donating $1 from the sale of every 6-count Chocolate Chunk Cookies to Penquis C.A.N. (Child Abuse and Neglect) Prevention Council. Pick up some delicious snacks that support an important cause!
It's Older Americans Month!
Click below to learn more about the Penquis Foster Grandparent Program, an opportunity for income-eligible adults age 55 and older to make a difference while receiving a stipend and other benefits!
For more information about this rewarding program, please call 1-800-215-4942 or click here.
Join the Penquis Community-Based Program at the Thompson Free Library in Dover-Foxcroft for snacks, coffee, and conversations. The event is on Thursday, May 18th, from 10:30 to 12:30. Come enjoy a snack and get to know your neighbors!
Be a Volunteer Advocate!
Rape Response Services has openings in the May Volunteer Advocate Training! If you're interested in volunteering, reach out to Haley, the volunteer coordinator, to find out how you can get in on this 100% FREE training! [email protected]
Power Match Donations Matched by Versant Power
We've partnered with Versant Power to help our friends and neighbors get the electricity bill assistance they need. Donate to Power Match today and Versant Power will double your impact by matching your donation! For more information and for eligibility guidelines, call 207-973-3630 or email [email protected].
"Wheel" you drive for us?
Being a Volunteer Driver can be a rewarding experience! Receive mileage reimbursement while helping others. If you have time to give and enjoy driving and meeting people, this is a great opportunity for you. Learn more!

IT TAKES A COMMUNITY
Thank you! We are grateful to everyone who has helped us to support our region's residents and communities. A few of our more recent events are listed below!
SAAM 2023 a Success
Thank you to everyone who participated in Sexual Assault Awareness Month this April! Dexter Regional High School and Diversified Ink donated hygiene products, Beta Theta Pi held their annual sleepout, Queen City Cinema Club hosted an amazing art exhibit, and Bangor City Hall and downtown businesses turned their lights teal! Thank you for supporting survivors!
Penquis has been awarded a 2023 Community Matters More first-place $5,000 grant for Southern Penobscot County through Bangor Savings Bank. We want to thank everyone who took the time to vote for us! You voted; it made a difference, and we thank you! We also want to thank the Bangor Savings Bank Foundation for the many ways they give back to Penquis and our communities, caring about the needs that matter most to our neighbors and friends. We appreciate the support!
Maine Needs
An amazing 75 hygiene and personal care kits from Maine Needs! Thank you for your support!
Gateway Title
Thank you, Gateway Title, for helping to keep families in our community warm and safe!
COMMUNITY ACTION AND YOU!
Join us on social media and keep up with Penquis news as it happens!