| AUGUSTA, ME — Organizations and individuals across Kennebec County are working together to create lasting, positive change through Impact2032, a 10-year, community-wide movement focused on improving health, education and financial stability. Since its launch in July 2022, Impact2032 has brought together 117 organizations and 72 individuals, all dedicated to driving meaningful change in our community. Based on the annual data update released at the Impact2032 Summit in November 2024, partners in health, education and financial stability are actively addressing local challenges, ensuring that resources and opportunities reach those who need them most. Expanding Health Resources to Address Substance Use Substance use disorder remains a critical challenge in Kennebec County, with an overdose rate of 46.0 deaths per 100,000 people. Local organizations are stepping up to provide life-saving support and intervention programs. Access Direct Recovery Network is expanding access to immediate recovery services. This growing nonprofit operates a 24/7 hotline (207-482-3835) that connects individuals struggling with substance use disorder to treatment options, recovery resources and harm reduction statewide. By eliminating long wait times and offering fast-track access to care, Access Direct Recovery Network is helping more individuals take their first steps toward recovery. In addition, MaineGeneral’s Next Step Harm Reduction Program is working to prevent overdoses and reduce the spread of infectious diseases by offering free and confidential services to individuals 18 years and older. The program provides HIV and Hepatitis C testing, condom distribution, education and a syringe exchange in a safe, judgment-free space. With locations in Augusta and Waterville, the program ensures harm reduction resources are within reach. Staffed by a dedicated team, these services are funded through grants and private donations, ensuring that anyone who needs assistance can receive it. “Research shows that harm reduction strategies—like syringe exchange and naloxone distribution—save lives, reduce infectious disease, and connect individuals to care. MaineGeneral’s Harm Reduction Program brings these proven approaches to our community, providing life-saving resources in a compassionate, judgment-free space,” said Nathan Howell, President & CEO of MaineGeneral Health. “This work is a powerful example of community-based care in rural areas, ensuring people have the tools they need to protect themselves and their loved ones.” Strengthening Early Literacy for a Brighter Future Ensuring that children develop strong literacy skills early in life sets them up for long-term success. Recognizing this, Literacy Volunteers of Kennebec (LVK) has partnered with the Maine State Library to bring Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to Kennebec County. This initiative provides high-quality, age-appropriate books to children from birth to age five, mailed directly to their homes each month. Research has shown that early exposure to books significantly improves literacy skills, vocabulary development and language comprehension. Through this program, families are encouraged to read together, fostering a love for learning from an early age. The program is open to all families, regardless of income, ensuring that every child in Kennebec County has the opportunity to build a strong foundation in literacy. “LVK supports literacy for all ages and recognizes that supporting early literacy is one of the best ways to increase adult literacy in the future,” said Virginia Marriner, executive director of Literacy Volunteers of Kennebec. “A key pillar of Impact2032 is providing quality learning experiences prior to kindergarten that also engage families. LVK believes Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, with its inclusive approach, will provide those experiences. We thank all of our community partners for helping to make this program a reality in Kennebec County.” Increasing Child Care Access to Support Working Families In Kennebec County, 70.3% of parents with children under the age of six are in the workforce, and access to affordable, quality child care remains one of the biggest challenges for working families. While expanded eligibility for child care assistance programs has helped, demand continues to outpace available resources. To bridge this gap, several organizations are stepping in to ensure that parents have the support they need. At the Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC), the Supporting Family Futures program is removing a major barrier to higher education for parents—child care. This initiative provides free child care to parents enrolled in degree or certificate programs, enabling them to pursue their education without the financial burden of child care costs. By creating pathways to better employment opportunities, the program helps families work toward long-term financial stability. Limited funding is available, and eligibility requirements apply. The Boys & Girls Club of Kennebec Valley (BGCKV) is ensuring that children and teens continue to have a safe, enriching environment, regardless of their family’s financial situation. Through their scholarship program, BGCKV provides financial assistance to families experiencing hardship, allowing children to access after-school care, homework help and mentorship programs. This support enables parents to remain in the workforce while ensuring that their children have a structured and engaging place to go. Meanwhile, the Kennebec Valley YMCA (KVYMCA) is working to make quality child care more accessible by providing financial assistance to families in need. Last year alone, the organization awarded over $40,000 in scholarships, helping families secure care for children as young as six weeks old. The KVYMCA’s Learning Center offers full-day child care, after-school programs, and care on school vacation and snow days—ensuring that parents can work or continue their education while their children are in a supportive environment. “At the Kennebec Valley YMCA, we know that access to quality, affordable child care is vital for both children and parents,” said Ranae L’Italien, CEO of the Kennebec Valley YMCA. “By offering these services, we’re not just supporting families but investing in our community’s future. Early childhood education sets children up for success, while reliable child care helps parents thrive in their careers, enhancing financial stability and overall well-being.” Looking Ahead As Impact2032 continues to grow, community partners remain committed to expanding access to health resources, education opportunities and financial stability initiatives across Kennebec County. United Way of Kennebec Valley encourages more organizations to get involved and help push progress even further.To learn more or become part of this movement for lasting change, visit impact2032.org. |
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