Engaging Community Members
See community engagement in action and explore the case studies below.
The Connection Initiative
The Connection Initiative (TCI), based at the Community Caring Collaborative in Washington County, Maine, connects community members and service providers to essential local resources through a trauma-informed, technology-driven platform. Serving the Passamaquoddy Tribal communities, TCI streamlines care coordination, tracks community needs, and strengthens partnerships to improve health and social outcomes across the region.
Help Desk at Millinocket Regional Library
The Help Desk at Millinocket Memorial Library in Millinocket, Maine, serves as a vital community hub offering resource navigation, technical assistance, and educational programming to connect residents, visitors, and unhoused individuals with essential services. Evolving from direct aid efforts during the Mobilize Katahdin initiative and the COVID-19 pandemic, the program now focuses on empowering patrons through access to a comprehensive Resource Guide and partnerships with regional organizations. Guided by the library’s mission to function as a true community center and “third space,” staff actively collaborate with local councils and service networks to address pressing needs such as housing, heating, transportation, and childcare, fostering trust and reducing barriers for community members seeking support.
