march 2025 newsletter
The Access Center Renovation is Well Underway!
Our first volunteer day was a huge success, bringing out over 25 people to kick off renovations at the Access Center and help move supplies from our current office to the new storage space. We can’t express enough how grateful we are for our incredible volunteers! A special shoutout to the enthusiastic teams from Zysk Recovery House and Enso Recovery House, who went above and beyond to help move boxes and furniture from our headquarters on Bangor Street.
Your support and hard work mean the world to us!
The first day of renovations at the Access Center was more than just the start of a project — it was a deeply meaningful moment. Not only did it fall on Courtney’s birthday, but it also marked a powerful personal milestone. Ten years ago, on that very date, Courtney made the life-changing decision to enter detox for the last time, facing the painful reality of losing custody of her children and her mother to DHHS. It was the first step toward rebuilding a life rooted in recovery, growth, and transformation.
Now, in a full-circle moment, this day also signifies the beginning of the Access Center’s remodeling—a space dedicated to helping others reach their own recovery milestones. And that mission is already taking shape. On the very first day of renovations, a volunteer was able to take their first step toward recovery by entering detox. That’s what the Access Center is all about — empowering the community to get involved, showing up as we are, and believing in the possibility of change.
Here’s to the next decade of change, community, and impact.
There will be future opportunities for volunteers. Contact Jeanne Marquis, Volunteer Director at Jeanne@ME-RAP.org if interested in volunteering.
Our Team Presented to Augusta City Council
The Access Center team recently joined the Augusta City Council to present our plans for the Center! During the meeting, we outlined our vision for transforming the center into a supportive space aimed at empowering community members on their recovery journeys. Our presentation reviewed the services we currently provide, as well as the ones that the Center will be providing. City Council members expressed their support for the project, acknowledging the positive impact the Access Center aims to have on Augusta's residents. Councilors also centered our experience with this work and appreciation for our clear out comes and goals.
"This looks like a well-designed, well-thought out program." said Councilor Kevin Judkins. "I am going to put my hope and faith that it is the solution. "
"One thing that I would like to highlight that gives me a lot of faith about this program is your two-year plan." said Councilor Stephanie Sienkiewicz. "These are things that are actually doable.
The council's discussion reflects a shared commitment to enhancing the well-being of individuals and families in the area.
We also want to thank the team at the Maine CDC for joining at the meeting. It's wonderful to have the support of our CDC partners, Carolina Rojas-Becerra, Ann Farmer and Anne Sites. Thank you!
The Access Center received SSP Certification!
ME-RAP is now officially certified by the Maine CDC to provide syringe exchange services at the Access Center!
We’re deeply grateful to our harm reduction mentors who have guided and supported us along the way. This certification marks a big step forward, and we’re honored to continue serving our community with care, compassion, and evidence-based harm reduction.
Stay tuned for more details—we can’t wait to get started!
Youth Caucus News
The Youth Caucuses Reach Out in Our Communities
February was an impactful month for the three youth caucuses, highlighting their dedication to service, collaboration, and community engagement. Through acts of kindness, structured planning, and meaningful partnerships, the youth have set a strong foundation for future initiatives. Their commitment to both outreach and personal growth continues to be a driving force behind their success.
Washington County Youth Caucus
The Washington County (WC) Youth Caucus engaged in a heartfelt community service project for Valentine’s Day by baking and delivering cookies to a local nursing home. The youth had the opportunity to visit with the elders, bringing them joy and companionship on the day of love.
The group also actively planned for an upcoming rock painting party scheduled for March 10th. Additionally, they hosted the Downeast Rainbow Alliance at their meeting, where LGBTQ+ topics were discussed, and resources such as the Trevor Project were shared. This provided essential support and awareness for those struggling with self-harm. The youth collaborated on organizing their March event and ensured a structured meeting with the help of an agenda prepared by Serenity.
Kennebec County Youth Caucus
The Kennebec County Youth Caucus focused on community service by delivering homemade Valentine’s Day cookies to the unhoused population. This experience was eye-opening for many, as they braved the cold to distribute fresh hot cocoa and baked goods outside the Augusta Overnight Emergency Warming Center. Through this act of kindness, they gained a newfound appreciation for warmth and security, fostering a deep sense of gratitude.
In preparation for Valentine’s Day, the youth gathered at Courtney’s house to bake brownies and cookies, working together in a fun and productive environment. They also organized a surprise birthday party for their youth leader, Jon Reynolds, which was a joyful and well-received celebration.
During their weekly meetings, the Kennebec youth continued planning their community impact projects while also taking care of administrative tasks such as paperwork (boooo... Courtney!). They expressed a desire to engage in a fun social event outside of their service projects, deciding on a youth movie night as a recreational activity.
Penobscot County Youth Caucus
Youth organizers and allies in Bangor held their first meeting at the Boys & Girls Club of Bangor (BGCB). Discussions centered around PYC’s work, setting monthly goals for 2025, and planning their first major event—a St. Patrick’s Day sober celebration scheduled for March 14. The youth decided to reach out to the Bangor YMCA to offer naloxone training to its teen center and planned a clothing drive/back-to-school event in August. Additionally, they proposed collaborating with the Shaw House to support at-risk and homeless youth during the holiday season.
To establish structure in their new meeting space, the youth and adult allies worked together to draft rules of engagement and expectations for behavior at BGCB. This shift emphasized youth-led discussions, with adults taking a step back to foster independence.
Leading up to the St. Patrick’s Day celebration, youth organizers participated in multiple planning meetings, both in person and via Zoom. They designed event flyers, delegated tasks, and collaborated with BGCB program staff to finalize event logistics.
Join the Penobscot Youth Caucus for St. Patties Day!
If you know of youth who have been impacted by substance use in their families or friends, check out a youth caucus in one of the three locations.
In Kennebec County, contact Jon@ME-RAP.org .
In Washington County, contact Joe@ME-RAP.org .
In Penobscot Country, contact Kay@ME-RAP.org .
We have bottle drives in two counties!
Please save your bottles and donate them to our Youth Caucuses either in Penobscot or Kennebec County. The money they earn helps to fund their community impact projects, keeping your donation local.
