No matter how different our backgrounds or beliefs, as humans, we have a lot more in common than we don’t. As Mainers, we have even more.
This year alone, we collectively lived through a series of storms that brought widespread destruction to our state, felt the burden of rising food and housing costs, and together looked up at the sky to take in a total eclipse and the Northern Lights. Though a divisive presidential election kept our differences top of mind, some of us were able to put those aside to focus instead on helping neighbors in need.
We asked you to tell us about these unsung heroes from your communities, who go above and beyond simply because they care. Among our selections for this year’s Mainers To Be Thankful For are a teenage activist, a devoted caregiver and an innovative food pantry manager. They are people who help both friends and strangers, including asylum seekers and children in foster care. They’ve built community, forged connections and made our state a better place to live. Here are their stories.
Steve Knight, Waterville: Keeping food and medical supplies from going to waste
The retired high school teacher has found a ‘niche’ in putting things to good use.
Rae Ann Lajoie, Vassalboro: Coming through for people when they need it most
From taking people into her home to caring for family members, she’s always ‘doing something for someone.’
Clint Brooks, Jay: Caretaker is motivated by making a difference in everyday life
The former paper mill worker has found purpose working with people with intellectual disabilities.
Julia Coady, Greene: From a book fair to a town parade, she’s giving neighbors reason to gather
The mother of two finds joy in building and sharing community.
Moon Machar, Portland: Making the outdoors accessible to asylum seekers
Following in her friend’s footsteps, Machar wants to share the many benefits of connecting with nature.
Jamie Silvestri, Woolwich: Bringing kids ‘wholeness and health and healing’ through art
The founder of ArtVan has been bringing supplies to neighborhoods of kids for 20 years.
Dahlia Verrill, Falmouth: Advocate for trans athletes aims ‘to bridge divides and build community’
The 17-year-old started speaking up in support of her peers in middle school.
Fabian Cruz-Thompson, Biddeford: Bike shop mentee becomes the mentor
The Biddeford resident teaches children and teens how to fix bikes at the shop, where he came to do the same as a kid.
Warren Graver, Freeport: Connecting kids in foster care to their community
A contractor for the state’s child and family services, he uses his network to create opportunities.
Devyn Santora, Phippsburg: Food pantry manager wants people to choose what they eat
She led an overhaul of the Brunswick pantry to make it more accessible.
Maine Trust for Local News could use your help
For about a decade, around Thanksgiving, what is now the Maine Trust for Local News has published the Mainers To Be Thankful For issue. This year, readers submitted over 50 people to consider for the annual feature. I’m sure many, if not all, deserve the nomination. But as I read the profiles of the 10…