1 JUL 2024 · On this episode of Community Connections, host Stella Mars speaks Friends of the Cobbossee Watershed. Tom Mullen, Executive Director and Cami Wilbert, Director of Educatrion explain why it is so important to protect local water resources including lakes, ponds, and rivers from aquatic invasive species. They'll also share steps they take to keep our water clean for wildlife and recreation.  Additionally, Connie Harvey from the American Red Cross offers tips about being 'water smart'. 

24 JUN 2024 · On this episode, host Stella Mars speaks with Kaileigh A. Tara from Hope House in Lewiston. All are welcome at Hope House, 91 College Street. Hope House offers a free thrift store, free food market, free neighborhood prenatal clinic with free ultrasounds and much more!  People from surrounding areas are welcome and there is no judgement at Hope House. Please check their website for hours to shop, to donate, or to volunteer. Learn more at HopeHouseMaine.com

17 JUN 2024 · On this episode, Stella Mars speaks with Katie Lisnick, the Executive Director of the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society in Lewiston. Learn how the humane society got its start, what types of animals are available, and how you can support their work through volunteering, fostering, or donating. Katie shares the numbers of animals that come through the GA humane society, the ways that GAHS assists the animals, and the different types of fundraising events that take place throughout the year. Learn more at GAHumane.org.

10 JUN 2024 · Stella Mars speaks with Angie Gade, Development Director at House In The Woods, a nonprofit organization specializing in ourdoor retreats with the mission of fostering healing and hope for veterans and active military service people.  House in the Woods in Leeds Maine has positively impacted veterans, service personnel, Gold Star Families, and more through fishing retreats, hunting retreats, and other outdoor activities. Learn about program offerings and volunteer opportunities.

6 JUN 2024 · Host Stella Mars speaks with Noel Bonham, Executive Director of AARP Maine, They discuss the advocacy work that is the primary focus of AARP. This show also unpacks popular misconceptions about AARP and shares who it is for, what it does, and why it matters to people of all ages. 

27 MAY 2024 · May is Mental Health Awareness Month. On this episode, Stella Mars speaks with Justin Chenette from Sweetser. Sweetser is a behavioral health nonprofit that provides evidence-based treatment, support, and hope through a statewide network of community-based mental health, recovery, and educational services. Justin discusses several of Sweetser's program offerings including the Peer Support line which can be accessed at 866-771-9276.  To access other services, call 1-800-434-3000 or email info@sweetser.org.

20 MAY 2024 · Loss can upend your world. In this episode, you'll learn about two outstanding organizations that are offering peer support to help adults and children cope with loss. Sarah Asch is the Director of Outreach and Education at the Center for Grieving Children in Portland. She describes the many free services they offer for children and adults. Visit CGCMaine.org. Rob Reider is one of the founders of The Sad Dad's Club. The Club provides free bereavement support virtually and in person for men who grieve the loss of a child. Visit SadDadsClub.com. 

13 MAY 2024 · Stella Mars speaks with Michelle Surdoval, Executive Director of York Community Services Association (YCSA). YCSA administers a number of resources for residents of York, Maine, including community meals, housing information, General Assistance, fuel fund, food pantry, and more.  YCSA is largely funded through their thrift store at 855 US Route 1 in York, Maine. They hold annual fundraisers to supplement the income from the thrift store in order to offer a wide array of programs. Learn more at YCSAME.org.

6 MAY 2024 · Stella Mars speaks with FEMA Communications Specialist, Deanna Frazier about assistance available to Mainers adversely affected by the back-to-back storms January 9-13, 2024. Learn which homeowners and renters may apply for assistance, how to apply, and what pitfalls to avoid in the application process. Deanna also shares tips about how to avoid scams. The deadline to apply for assistance due to this disaster is May 20, 2024. 

29 APR 2024 · Stella Mars speaks with Kevin Bogart, Deputy Director of The Locker Project of Maine. Kevin explains the no-profit's mission to get food to food insecure children and families in the Greater Portland area through partnerships with grocery stores and farms.  The Locker Project strives to get food to children through low barrier, stigma-free and environmentally responsible means. Learn more at MaineLockerProject.org.