Senator George J. Mitchell Center for Sustainability Solutions

Volunteer Connections

AmeriCorps Maine

AmeriCorps is involved in thousands of service projects working with local partners across America and more than 200 locations in Maine. Projects are designed to meet local needs and empower communities by supporting the work of schools, food banks, homeless shelters, health clinics, youth centers, veteran facilities, and other nonprofit organizations. To find out more about AmeriCorps projects near you and how to get involved check the AmeriCorps website.

Bodwell Center for Service and Volunteerism

The mission of the Bodwell Center is to create civic mindedness by building an engaged campus through the promotion of service learning and volunteerism to students, faculty, and staff in order to strengthen our local, national, and global communities. The Bodwell Center connects students and staff with various volunteer opportunities and charitable programs such as Red Cross Blood Drives, Black Bear Tutors, and the Black Bear Exchange. There are various opportunities for students to experience service learning or participate in Alternative Breaks.

Cooperative Extension

Nearly 8,000 volunteers have devoted more than 150,000 hours to their communities last year through UMaine Cooperative Extension. People volunteer to help their families and communities, pursue their passions, connect with similarly motivated people, make a difference, and meet vital community needs. Cooperative Extension has organized volunteer work in youth development, horticulture, coastal and freshwater quality monitoring, environmental work, nutrition education, senior companionship programs, sustainable coastal community programs, and parenting education. Check the website for local volunteer opportunities.

Heart of Maine United Way

Heart of Maine United Way has worked to improve the lives of community members for 85 years in several counties across Maine. Today it is the largest private funder of education, income, and health services in the area. It also conducts a community mapping project every 5 years to identify needs, root causes, and develop a plan to address them. This allows it to identify areas where community resources and relationships can be leveraged to create solutions. They also have an online database which helps to match volunteers with meaningful opportunities to engage in the community, bond with others, and excel as leaders.

Volunteer.gov

Volunteer.gov compiles various volunteer opportunities with state and federal agencies and organizations such as the Fish and Wildlife Service, Army Corps of Engineers, and National Park Service. You can search by location, housing accommodation, or activity.

Volunteer Maine: Maine Commission for Community Service

Volunteer Maine improves capacity and sustainability in  Maine’s volunteer and service communities by funding programs, training volunteer managers, raising awareness of various issues, and promoting community service. Volunteer Maine was established by executive order in 1994 and its board members are selected by the state governor. It endeavors to foster volunteerism and inspire community service to address critical needs in Maine. Volunteer Maine works with AmeriCorps, emergency response services, Maine Service Fellows, Maine Climate Corps, and many local volunteer and educational organizations. To find out about volunteer opportunities, please visit their website.

UMaine Clubs and Organizations

Student Clubs and Organizations

Many academic, extracurricular, and greek life organizations participate in diverse community service activities throughout the school year. There are some organizations which are solely devoted to certain areas of community service activities. There are many ways for student organizations to help the community, whether it involves the specific focus of that organization, or providing general help in areas of need. You can attend annual student org fairs or search the official club listing online to find service oriented organizations, or propose service projects within organizations you are involved with.

MBS Corps

MBS Corps is the outreach organization of the Maine Business School which focuses on helping small Maine based nonprofit organizations to make a greater impact. It helps students develop their leadership, organizational, management, and marketing skills while making friendships and connections in a fun, supportive environment. They host various events such as Adopt a Family, march against domestic violence, and the heroes and hope dodgeball tournament annually and maintain a campus Food Pantry Nook. New members, volunteers, and participants are always welcome.

UMaine Circle K International

Circle K International is the world’s largest student led collegiate service organization which has thousands of members on hundreds of campuses on five continents. It is committed to developing leaders by offering service, leadership, and fellowship opportunities that change both the world and members’ lives. CKI members leave college with networking, advocacy, and service leadership skills. Members are dedicated to childhood development, environmental justice, serving those who lack food security, housing, or mental health services.

Environment and Nature

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park was created by the individual efforts of people who loved the park and were motivated to take care of it. There are many volunteer and involvement opportunities whether you are available for a few hours, or a span of weeks. Friends of Acadia and the Schoodic Institute are involved in regular maintenance and support projects in the park through research, public events, and regular service. Numerous University of Maine departments, courses, and student organizations visit Acadia for educational and service purposes, so there may be opportunities to get involved in volunteer work within your academic or extracurricular life. Some opportunities include trail maintenance, educational programs, and seasonal bird migration monitoring.

Bangor Land Trust

The Bangor Land Trust is a community based nonprofit land trust helping to protect and preserve special landscapes, natural resources, and recreational areas in the Bangor region. It helps to maintain public access to trails and provides educational programming for members of the public of all ages. There are many ways to volunteer either individually or as part of a group such as trail or property maintenance, office support, and outdoor recreational leadership. There is an interest form which asks potential volunteers about their interests, skills, and availability on the BLT website.

Friends of Sunkhaze Meadows

Sunkhaze Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is open to the public from sun-up to sun-down and is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Friends of Sunkhaze Meadows is a nonprofit which aims to support the long term health of the refuge through environmental education. There are three volunteer maintained trails with all ages interactive trail maps which describe the lore, ecosystems, plants, and animals that are a part of Sunkhaze Meadows. Contact the Friends of Sunkhaze Meadows for information about how to get involved.

Hirundo Wildlife Refuge

Hirundo Wildlife Refuge is 2,460 acres of conserved woodlands and wetlands just West of Old Town dedicated to preserving nature while providing educational and recreational opportunities to the public. Hirundo offers more than 7 miles of marked trails, river access, public programs, and free rental opportunities for canoes, kayaks, and snowshoes. There is also a universal access trail which is accessible to sensory and mobility impaired individuals. The Refuge acts as a living laboratory for numerous UMaine classes and student projects, offers environmental education programs to schools and the public, and is dedicated to cultivating a love of nature and dedication to environmental stewardship in local youth. There are many volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups such as nest box monitoring, mapping, administrative support, trail maintenance, equipment handling, and property maintenance. For more information about how you can get involved, check the Hirundo website or reach out via phone or email.

Lake Stewards of Maine

Lake Stewards of Maine (LSM) works to protect Maine lakes and promote lake stewardship through citizen participation and by gathering and disseminating credible information about lake health. Their primary initiatives are to monitor and improve water quality, control invasive species, improve the identification and mitigation of pollution, and collect and communicate important lake data. They help train volunteers and provide technical support for projects related to invasive species identification and removal, water quality monitoring, and lake health assessment skills. The LSM website has resources and information related to their annual webinar series, how to report important aquatic events and phenomena, previously collected data, species mapping, lake ecology, equipment maintenance, and regulations. Information about how to volunteer, training, and employment opportunities can also be found on the site.

Maine Audubon

Maine Audubon works to inform the people of Maine about wildlife and habitats, as well as how to act as effective stewards of natural lands. It hosts camps and educational programs for children, trips, speakers, and classes for adults, community opportunities related to scientific research, and grassroots advocacy in support of wildlife friendly public policies. There are many ways to connect to Maine’s wildlife and natural landscape. Maine Audubon’s volunteer corps is an integral part of their mission. Volunteers help to protect Maine wildlife and habitat environmental education, conservation, and advocacy. Individuals, families, and groups of all ages and abilities are welcome to help out at their 8 wildlife sanctuaries. Volunteers help engage with visitors, work with educators, collect data, and assist with sanctuary maintenance.

Orono Bog Walk

The Orono Bog Boardwalk is a great location for those who wish to experience the flora and fauna of Maine bogland. It is a one mile boardwalk loop trail that begins in the Bangor City Forest and crosses into UMaine’s portion of the Orono bog. The walk passes through several changes of vegetation and environments on its way to the peat moss carpeted center of the Orono Bog. There are signs and illustrations with information about the wildlife and area along the walk. Volunteers help with guiding tours and educating visitors, as well as maintaining the boardwalk itself.

Orono Land Trust

The OLT is a local non-profit organization that helps to protect green spaces and protect access to trails throughout Orono. Most work is carried out by community volunteers, volunteer officers, and Board members. More than 4,000 acres of land are under their protection. The OLT always appreciates volunteers in their many activities such as removal of invasive species, trail maintenance, leading tours/activities, research, program coordination, fundraising, and educational outreach. Volunteers come from diverse personal and professional backgrounds and there are many ways to help. The Orono Land Trust also encourages individual landowners to consider conservation easements as a method of providing long-term protection to their land. 

Swan Island Wildlife Management Area

Swan Island welcomes hikers, birders, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and explorers. The island has 7 miles of hiking trails, kayak and canoe rentals, 2 active eagle nests, geocaches, 5 historic homes from an 1800s farming community, a trout pond for children, and a self guided tour. There are several campsites which have fire pits, lean-tos, and drinking water. Friends of Swan Island (FOSI) is a group of volunteers who help with fundraising, grant writing, as well as restoring and maintaining the island’s structures and facilities. If you would like to get involved, reach out to FOSI!

Food Production and Harvest

Black Bear Food Guild

Established in 1994, the Food Guild is a community agricultural endeavor, initiated and developed by students in response to their desire to experience more hands-on learning. Students manage two acres of certified organic vegetable production and one acre under cover crop. The majority of the operating capital is from the sale of membership shares. Students provide fresh organically grown vegetables to about 40 shareholders. For more information, please contact Dr. Eric Gallandt at gallandt@maine.edu or 207-581-2933, or reach out on Facebook (blackbearcsa).

Maine Harvest for Hunger

Created as a part of UMaine’s Cooperative Extension in 2000, the Maine Harvest for Hunger program is a grassroots effort to encourage gardeners, farmers, businesses, schools, civic groups and others to donate high-quality fruits and vegetables to citizens in need. Through county-based networks, donated produce is delivered to food pantries, soup kitchens, community meals, and individuals across the state. Between 2000 and 2021, the program has collected and distributed more than 996 tons of donated fresh produce. They work with dozens of local partners across the state of Maine to distribute food to those in need throughout local communities. There are many ways that home gardeners, farmers, master gardeners, volunteers, businesses, schools, and civic groups can contribute to the program. Maine Harvest for Hunger has also posted various links and resources related to food preparation and storage, community garden planning and maintenance, food pantry and donation guidelines, other relevant Cooperative Extension programs, and many other aspects of gardening and food management. For more information about Maine Harvest for Hunger, please contact your county Extension office or extension.harvestforhunger@maine.edu.

Orono Community Garden

The Orono Community Garden produces more than just vegetables. It also develops a sense of community, promotes sustainability, and encourages healthy lifestyles. Orono’s first community garden was spearheaded by John Jemson, a water quality and soil specialist with UMaine’s Cooperative Extension. With the help of students and volunteers, the garden has expanded and now produces food for the community. A second garden was created as a part of the Children’s International Villages (CISV) to provide multi-generational benefits and opportunities to the local community. The CISV garden provides meals to the Bangor Area Homeless Shelter and offers help with cooking skills to properly prepare the food after it has been harvested. The first garden provides produce directly to individuals in need within the community. Volunteers assist with gardening, harvesting, and delivering the produce. The Orono farmer’s market has also gotten involved by donating money and leftover produce.

Food, Shelter, and Supplies

Bangor Area Homeless Shelter

The Bangor Area Homeless Shelter is open 365 days a year and strives to provide overnight shelter, day services, a daily soup kitchen, a food pantry, and an overnight winter warming center. Many projects throughout the shelter require constant upkeep. Volunteers can help by becoming a food pick-up driver or meal provider, organizing donated food and items, donating food, clothing, personal items, or money, helping with facility maintenance, or educating others about homelessness and the shelter.

Black Bear Exchange

The Black Bear Exchange is an on campus food pantry which seeks to provide access to food and basic necessities to members of the UMaine community. This program seeks to combat both food insecurity and food waste. Individuals may select 15 items per week. It also includes a clothing swap. The BBE accepts donations and more information about how to support the BBE as well as local food pantries and thrift shops can be found on their page.

Bureau of Labor Education: Solidarity Harvest

Solidarity Harvest is a program run by the organization Food AND Medicine, and supported by the Bureau of Labor Education as well as the Eastern Maine Labor Council. Solidarity Harvest gathers, packs, and delivers boxes of food to laid-off workers and their families throughout Maine before Thanksgiving. Volunteers help throughout every stage by setting up food storage, calling donors, and packing the food. Preparation, food collection, and packaging processes begin in fall.

Eat Well Volunteer Program

The Eat Well Volunteer Program in Hancock County is run by Cooperative Extension and teaches volunteers how to educate food pantry patrons about food preparation, safety, and preservation, especially in regards to fresh produce. After completing initial training, volunteers will conduct lessons for people who utilize local food pantries with lesson plans and teaching supplies provided by Cooperative Extension. The program generally results in 30 hours of community service between July and November.

Food AND Medicine

Food AND Medicine is a member based organization working to address the root causes of poverty from an inclusive perspective. With the guiding principle, “solidarity, not charity”, they aim to empower those directly affected by poverty and food insecurity and directly involve them in community and leadership projects and roles. Rather than temporary relief, their goal is to enact effective and lasting change so that such relief will one day be unnecessary. Food AND Medicine engages in political action by supporting candidates who possess a desire to reduce poverty, support workers, and improve access to healthcare. They have also created raised bed gardens and worked with the Food Access Committee to improve community access to fresh food. For more information about programs and involvement opportunities, explore the Food AND Medicine website.

Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine

Good Shepherd Food Bank relies on volunteers to support their mission to increase access to healthy and nutritious food. In 2022 more than 1,000 volunteers gave 17,684 hours of service, packed 3,705 community health and hunger boxes, and helped provide 29 million meals to Mainers facing food insecurity.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Bangor

Habitat for Humanity helps families in the community by rehabilitating vacant homes and building new ones in partnership with families in need. Their ReStore also sells new and gently used items to fund the mission. Volunteers are a vital part of their activities, working on construction, retail, and other areas of support. No experience in construction is necessary. There are many ways for both groups and individuals to help and assist with projects. 

Salvation Army

The Salvation Army works to identify and meet local needs in the community which may include help with homeless shelters, job training, rent assistance, food pantries, veteran services, and much more. You can help by donating new or gently used goods such as clothing, furniture, appliances, and other useful items. Donations can be dropped off at Salvation Army locations or a free pickup can be scheduled depending on the area. Donations may be tax deductible.

Medical Services

Amedisys Hospice Volunteer

Amedysis is a home care service provider which caters to sick, disabled, and elderly individuals. Hospice volunteers provide companionship and assistance to hospice patients and their families. Activities may include writing letters, playing games, pet therapy, light housework, or crafts. Amedysis provides training related to the needs of hospice patients, how to provide grief support, communication skills, and stress management.

Eastern Maine Medical Center

The Eastern Maine Medical Center is passionate about providing the best possible patient care, excellent service, clinical quality, and patient safety. Many volunteers help with clerical and administrative support, patient care, enrichment activities, and support tasks. Volunteers who own licensed therapy dogs bring them in to provide animal therapy. To learn more about involvement and volunteer opportunities, check out the website.

Red Cross Blood Services

Blood donations are a vital resource that save millions of lives each year and blood of all types is always in demand. The Red Cross regularly hosts blood drives and provides opportunities to give blood. The Bodwell Center organizes several on-campus drives with the Red Cross each year, but there are also regular opportunities to give blood in the surrounding areas. You can search for nearby drives and donation opportunities on the RedCross website. The Red Cross Blood Donor app is free and allows you to keep track of previous donation related information, find local drives, schedule donation appointments, and track blood donations. Even if you are unable to donate, you can still help by hosting a blood drive, volunteering at a blood drive, or making a financial donation.

Ronald McDonald House

Ronald McDonald House provides homelike, temporary lodging for families of seriously ill children receiving treatment at nearby medical facilities. Volunteers help with the housework, run errands, and cook meals.

United Cerebral Palsy of Maine

UPC of Maine is dedicated to advancing the independence, productivity, and full citizenship of people with disabilities who have multiple needs. UPC seeks to improve community inclusion, help build and educate a community that is accepting, safe, and respectful for all people, promote the knowledge and use of technology for people with disabilities in daily living, work, and recreation, and provide choices and self-determination in all aspects of life. They also work with communities, families, and consumers to provide high quality services to disabled people, support employees and volunteers through ongoing training and maintenance of a safe work environment, and help people with disabilities throughout their lives.

University Volunteer Ambulance Corps

UVAC is UMaine’s on-campus emergency medical service which responds to emergency calls at the University and provides aid to surrounding towns and agencies. They are annually inspected and licensed by Maine Emergency Medical Services. UVAC is a student volunteer organization which provides educational and leadership opportunities to participants. There are roughly 65 student, staff, and alumni volunteers. Most are EMTs, but some volunteers serve as drivers or assistants. UVAC operates as part of UMaine’s Auxiliary Enterprises and members respond to 500 calls and volunteer nearly 30,000 hours collectively each school year. Information about becoming an EMT, CPR and first aid training, as well as how to apply can be found on the UVAC website.

Public Safety and Search and Rescue

Down East Emergency Medical Institute (DEEMI)

DEEMI is a nonprofit that endeavors to develop ethical systems which will save lives in Maine and New England through the use of education, training, and surplus military equipment. Their goal is to improve Medevac, search and rescue, and disaster response techniques. Many DEEMI programs and operations are assisted by volunteers. Experience in search and rescue is not necessary to help as a volunteer. While the contributions of individuals that are trained and experienced in SAR operations or relevant technical skills are vital, many volunteers serve in ground search parties and other activities. Contact DEEMI to learn how you can help.

Operation Lifesaver

Operation Lifesaver is an active public information and education program which works to prevent and reduce trespassing, crashes, injuries, and fatalities, as well as improve driver performance at highway and rail grade crossings. Through their efforts, there has been a significant decrease in crashes at Maine crossings since 1990. Volunteers receive training to become qualified about rail crossing safety and attend educational events.

Senior Services

Center on Aging Senior Companionship Program

The Senior Companion Program is a volunteer program made up of community members 55 years or older who are interested in helping homebound or isolated seniors or disabled adults so that they can improve, maintain, or regain their independence. This program is neighbors helping neighbors. Staying independent in rural Maine can be a significant challenge for many seniors. This program helps seniors stay in their own homes longer with the help of dedicated volunteers across Maine. This program serves roughly 400 clients each year in 10 of Maine’s counties.

Eastern Maine Volunteer Scribes Program

The Volunteer Scribes Program works with UMaine students and is sponsored and directed by the Maine chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Volunteer scribes are usually college students majoring in pre-med, occupational or speech therapy, social work, or nursing. There have been volunteers from numerous colleges and universities throughout New England. Participants offer an important service to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and gain valuable insight into the disease from a caregiving, psychological, or medical perspective. Volunteer Scribes will attend one two hour training session in September, six 1.5 hour sessions in October and November, and 3-4 hours beyond session interviews writing life stories. The Alzheimer’s Association hosts information sessions for students, faculty, and staff for those who may be interested in participating. For more information, please reach out to the Maine branch of the Alzheimer’s Association.

Maine Veterans’ Homes

Maine Veterans’ Homes work to provide the care, dignity, and respect that Maine’s heroes deserve. They are committed to maintaining an excellent workplace where employees are valued as they further the vision of Maine Veterans’ Homes. Volunteers are always welcome and help with transportation, visiting, events, driving to appointments, delivering mail, and assisting with art, music, and reading activities.

Philips-Strickland House

Philips-Strickland House is a nonprofit organization which provides a comfortable, pleasant, and professionally staffed living environment for people 65 or older who function independently with support for daily living skills. They offer both private residences with support and assisted living arrangements. There are various activities for residents to enjoy and socialize with each other. Volunteers help with caregiving, exercise, hosting activities, and more.

Education

Challenger Learning Center of Maine

The Challenger Learning Center of Maine is a private nonprofit corporation which offers educational programs and activities to students and families in Maine. Their mission is to inspire students to be passionate about Earth and Space sciences, gain an interest in STEM related careers, pursue higher education in the sciences, and get involved in scientific and technology based opportunities within the state of Maine. The Challenger is always happy to have more help, so if you are interested in volunteering with office work, organizing materials, creative and craft projects, helping with events and programs, or just lending a hand wherever necessary, please reach out.

Literacy Volunteers of Bangor

Created in 1969, Literacy Volunteers of Bangor is a nonprofit dedicated to helping Bangor area adults learn or improve basic English skills. It is affiliated with the world’s largest non governmental adult literacy organization, ProLiteracy. Their student focused approach reduces barriers to learning and helps students achieve positive results. More than 600 students, tutors, and volunteers are overseen by a Board of Directors drawn from the local community. While their primary need is for volunteer tutors, you can also help with marketing, fundraising, and administrative support.

Maine Discovery Museum

The Maine Discovery Museum (MDM) is dedicated to helping Mainers learn about science, technology, engineering, and math with interactive exhibits and various STEM programs. They also hold many scientific programs throughout the year such as the Maine Science Podcast, Maine Science Festival, and Maine Invention Convention. There are many engagement and educational opportunities for children, teachers, and adults.

Maine Forest & Logging Museum

The mission of the Maine Forest & Logging Museum is to preserve, celebrate, and educate people about sustainable forest culture of Maine. They hold many events which focus on the forest and believe that everyone can find a way to engage with it. Volunteers help restore and maintain equipment and buildings, teach at events, and take care of the grounds.

Orono Public Library

The Orono Public Library is Certified LEED Gold by the U.S. Green Building Council. The Orono Public Library provides many valuable social, educational, and informational services and programs to the community. Volunteers make many important contributions to library programs that provide helpful and enriching experiences and opportunities to community members.

Page Farm and Home Museum

The mission of the Page Farm and Home Museum is to collect, document, preserve, interpret, and disseminate knowledge of Maine history relating to farms and farming communities between 1865 and 1940, providing an educational and cultural experience for the public and a resource for researchers of this period. The museum is the state’s most important collection of farm technologies and artifacts of rural culture. The museum campus includes the Maine Experiment Station barn, a post and beam structure built in 1833, the Chute Schoolhouse, an 1855 one-room building, the Winston E. Pullen Carriage House, a blacksmith shop, and a Heritage Garden which grows varieties of herbs, flowers, and vegetables that were grown from 1865 to 1940.

Terrell House Permaculture Living and Learning Center

The Terrell House supports a small resident community, various educational events, and a community garden. Terrell House is an inspiring space for hands-on learning, collaboration, research, and cooperative living. Incorporating principles of sustainable design, local food, and intentional community, Terrell House provides a location for interdisciplinary learning and research, events and workshops, a resident community, and a community garden. Terrell House strives to uphold a supportive environment, affordable housing, educational opportunities related to food production and preservation, outreach, and community building guided by the principles of permaculture. Terrell House provides hands-on learning opportunities and collaborative research projects to many academic departments. It has also pursued partnerships with the Edith Patch Center at Braeside, UMaine’s Cooperative Extension, and student organizations such as the Environmental Studies Coalition, Graduate Student Government, Green Team, SagE, and SEAD. Both visitors and volunteers are encouraged to get involved by participating in potlucks, skill share meetings, workshops, permablitzes, and community gardening activities. Contact UMaine’s Office of Sustainability at 207-581-1571 or sustainability@maine.edu for more information. Terrell House is located at 491A College Ave, Orono, ME, 04473.

Children

Bangor Region YMCA

The Bangor Y provides many recreational, fitness, and extracurricular activities for children and the public. There are volunteer opportunities for nurses, paramedics, childcare, martial arts instructors, event staff, and cleaning up. All volunteers will be subject to a background check.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine

The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine is to create and support one-to-one mentorships that ignite the power and promise of youths while encouraging them to reach their full potential. By partnering with parents and guardians, volunteers and community members they strive for each child in the program to gain confidence, learn to avoid risky behaviors, and attain educational success. You can help by becoming a Big or school coordinator, assisting with fundraisers, or helping with events.

Black Bear Tutors

Black Bear Tutors is organized by the Bodwell Center and engages UMaine students in the community by serving as math and literacy tutors for local K-12 students. Tutors build structured, trusting relationships through academic encouragement and assistance to help young people develop confidence in their abilities and enhance their desire to pursue post-secondary education and training. Participating UMaine students will spend 2-10 hours a week working as a 1 on 1 tutor, teacher’s aid, helping in an after school program, or leading a group study session. There are both virtual and in person options, and students do not have to be in an education major to volunteer.

Hardy Girls

Hardy Girls partners with girls and nonbinary youth through various programs which ignite curiosity, foster critical thinking, build coalitions, and challenge the status quo. They are passionate about inclusivity, gender equity, and social justice issues. Hardy Girls has worked with more than 1,200 girls and nonbinary youth each year through statewide programs. They endeavor to create community conversation, listen to girls, and provide opportunities to find their voices, support each other, create change, and embrace uniqueness. A volunteer interest form can be found on their website.

Animals

Bangor Humane Society

The Bangor Humane Society is dedicated to providing quality healthcare to animals in need, promote adoption, educate and train caretakers, reduce overpopulation through spay/neuter programs, and raise public awareness of humane treatment of animals. The BHS only euthanizes animals in the case that they are terminally ill or a danger to the public. Volunteers help with cleaning, dog walking, socialization, and events. People can also help by becoming a foster home, which helps to prepare pets, especially young kittens and puppies for adoption.

Animal Orphanage

The animal orphanage is a no-kill shelter in Old Town which provides food, shelter, and medical care to homeless animals. They actively work to adopt out animals in need of loving homes. Volunteers help with cleaning, maintenance, and dog walking. For more information about how you can help, please visit their website or reach out via phone or email.

Advocacy

Maine Campus Compact

Maine Campus Compact is a coalition of 17 campuses which aim to catalyze and lead a movement to reinvigorate the public purposes and civic mission of higher education, They endeavor to transform college campuses in ways that promote and develop better informed, active citizen problem solvers, stronger communities, and a more just democratic society. At the core of their mission is the belief that our campuses must be vital agents and architects of a flourishing democracy.

Partners for Peace

Partners for Peace is the domestic violence resource center for Penobscot and Piscataquis Counties which offers help and support 24/7 at 1-800-863-9909 for anyone affected by domestic abuse or violence, partner abuse, dating violence, stalking, or human trafficking. They also provide emergency shelter, transitional housing, housing support, online support groups, court and hospital accompaniment, legal advocacy, children’s services, and overall safety planning to individuals and families. Volunteers are an important part of their mission and help with tabling and outreach at community events, organizing and cleaning, cooking meals at shelters, moving and transporting furniture, event planning, manning the 24/7 helpline, and administrative support.

Peace & Justice Center of Eastern Maine

The Peace & Justice Center of Eastern Maine strives to create a better world with peace, human rights, economic justice, and a sustainable environment. It links individuals and organizations to strengthen mutual efforts, engages in community education to understand the root causes of militarism and injustice to address them more effectively, provides resources for progressive movement building by supporting and collaborating with emerging and existing groups, acts on issues which are not being addressed by other local organizations, and works to amplify diverse voices in our communities. Volunteers with various committee activities related to service, outreach, and activism.

Rape Response Services

Their mission is to offer hope, support, and advocacy to victims and people affected by sexual assault and stalking, educate people about sexual violence, and promote prevention. Rape Response Services creates an atmosphere of non-violence by pursuing social change, especially in regards to sexism and oppression. They provide educational programs and training related to personal safety, rape response, signs of sex trafficking, and other important topics to schools, communities, and any other interested parties. Volunteers help with medical accompaniments, tabling events, and many other ways.

Wilson Center

The Wilson Center is a place for all UMaine students and staff to explore their spirituality and learn about the spiritual lives of others. The Wilson Center’s most central value is the equality of all people and that our communities are enriched by diversity. People of all genders, gender identities, sexual orientations, races, religions, ethnicities, abilities, and economic backgrounds are welcome. They welcome seekers, agnostics, questioners, and traditional believers. The Center is committed to social justice work in the larger Bangor community and to creating real and lasting change through respectful dialogue and careful listening. They participate in various service projects in the community throughout the year.

Other

Special Olympics

Special Olympics provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in various Olympic-type sports for children and adults with disabilities, providing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, and experience joy. Participants share gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, other Special Olympic athletes, and the community. Volunteers help with coaching, event planning and management, and fulfill various needs at different events and programs.