Mainebiz Special Editions

J U N E 1 5 , 2 0 2 6 14 C O M M U N I T Y I M PA C T AWA R D S AWA R D V O L . X X X I I N O. X I I I § 2 HONORABLE MENTIONS: NONPROFIT COLLABORATION OF THE YEAR Community Concepts, Maine Children's Trust, Healthy Kids, Franklin County Children's Task Force & Kennebec Valley Community Action Program e Family Support Communities (FSC) pilot is a groundbreaking collaboration of five regional non- profit providers to transform how Maine families access support. Initiated in October 2025, FSC replaces fragmented services with a coordinated, commu- nity-led ecosystem rooted in national best practices. Across pilot sites in Androscoggin, Franklin, Lincoln, Kennebec and Somerset counties, partners are co- creating innovative approaches such as mobile office hours and activities programs, family resource centers and the "Stuff Coalition," which coordinates concrete support for basic needs. Early results show increased trust, stronger provider collaboration and families more readily accessing resources in their own commu- nities. With measurable goals focused on relationship- building, shared infrastructure, and scalable learning systems, FSC is already informing a statewide expan- sion effort. is collaboration is redefining family support in Maine through trust-based, community- driven systems change. Queerly ME & Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust e partnership between Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust and Queerly ME exemplifies how collaboration can expand access and foster belonging. What began as a shared vision in 2021 has grown into a statewide model for inclusive outdoor programming. By combin- ing conserved lands and staff capacity with a trusted LGBTQIA+ network, the organizations co-created Trail Mixer walks as welcoming, intergenerational gatherings designed to connect people with nature and each other. Since 2022, they have hosted roughly six events annually, with participation growing from just six attendees to as many as 75. Beyond numbers, the collaboration addresses social isolation, strengthens community ties, and creates safe, affirming spaces. Now replicated across Maine, this partnership demonstrates how resource sharing and trust can deliver scalable, measurable social change. HONORABLE MENTIONS: LEGACY OF SERVICE AWARD Gena Canning Gena Canning, who was a third-generation leader of Pine State Trading Co., has paired operational success with philanthropy and civic engagement, stengthening communities across Maine. Gena serves as board chair of Bangor Savings Bank and sits on the University of Southern Maine Foundation board, while also playing a pivotal leadership role in the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kennebec Valley's multi-million-dollar capital cam- paign in Gardiner, expanding access to critical family services. Known for her active, roll-up-your-sleeves approach, she champions causes focused on economic opportunity, education and community well-being. Gena's legacy is defined by sustained, meaningful impact that has inspired others to make a difference with the nonprofits in their communities. Alexander 'Sandy' Buck Sandy Buck's lifetime of service reflects more than five decades of hands-on leadership, philanthropy and environmental advocacy that have shaped communi- ties across Maine and beyond. Beginning at age 17 as a founding board member of Camp Kieve, he went on to serve nearly 30 years, including nine as board chair, helping secure its long-term sustainability through capital campaigns, endowments and expanded out- reach. His impact extends to major conservation wins, including helping raise $7 million in just six months to preserve Katahdin Lake for public use. rough leader- ship roles with Maine Audubon, the Maine Climate Council and the Environmental Funders Network, Sandy has mobilized millions in funding and cross- sector collaboration to address climate change. As co- founder of the Buck Lab at Colby College, he contin- ues to mentor and inspire future environmental leaders, ensuring his legacy of service endures for generations. HONORABLE MENTION: IN-KIND SERVICES SUPPORT Systems Engineering Systems Engineering delivers exceptional in-kind technology support that enables nonprofits to operate efficiently in an increasingly complex digital landscape. By providing a substantial portion of its IT services pro bono, the company reduces what would otherwise be significant infrastructure costs, freeing up critical resources to be reinvested directly into program- ming and client services. Its support spans hardware, software, systems management, security and ongoing technical guidance, effectively serving as the organiza- tion's help desk, IT partner and strategic advisor. Even through a recent ownership transition, service continu- ity remained seamless, underscoring a strong internal culture and commitment to client care. HONORABLE MENTION: VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Carrie Niederman rough her rare combination of board leadership and clinical expertise, Carrie Niederman has pro- vided extraordinary volunteer leadership for Riding to the Top erapeutic Riding Center. A retired equine veterinarian with 30 years of specialized experience in dentistry and nutrition, she uniquely bridges governance, education and direct animal care. Contributing over 500 hours of service in 2025, A retired equine veterinarian with 30 years of specialized experience in dentistry and nutrition, Carrie Niederman uniquely bridges governance, education and direct animal care. Gena Canning, a former leader of Pine State Trading Co. F I L E P H O T O F I L E P H O T O » C O N T I N U E D F RO M P R E V I O U S PA G E Known for her active, roll-up-your-sleeves approach, Gena Canning champions causes focused on economic opportunity, education and community wellbeing. Carrie Niederman

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