A visionary and unified Alliance of YMCAs leading change, supporting impactful leaders, and developing healthier communities.

MAINE 2023 ADVOCACY PRIORITIES

FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

We believe that all youth deserve the opportunity to thrive. We envision a Maine where all families have access to affordable, high quality childcare and early education.

Priorities:

  • Partnering with the State and the business community to increase the availability of childcare to support working families and our economy.
  • Addressing the childcare workforce shortage by advocating for increased funding to support compensation and career pathways for those entering and advancing in the field.
  • Increasing access to the Childcare Subsidy Program by ensuring its financial and administrative viability for all childcare providers in the State.

FOR HEALTHY LIVING

We support holistic and collaborative efforts to improve Mainers’ health, strengthen families, and promote active lifestyles for residents of all ages.

Priorities:

  • Increasing access to evidence-based wellness programs to prevent and address chronic health conditions, including diabetes, cancer, and obesity.
  • Expanding programs that address food insecurity.
  • Addressing mental health challenges by providing education, safe spaces, and community supports for individuals and their families.
  • Helping seniors safely age in place and combat social isolation.

FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY:

We leverage our trusted position in the community, private funds, and volunteers to provide critical services that would otherwise fall to the government. We believe in working with our neighbors to address cross-sector challenges.

Priorities:

  • Addressing Maine’s workforce shortage crisis through education and job training programs, in partnership with community organizations and government.
  • Protecting tax exemptions for charitable organizations that address community needs unmet by government.