BANGOR — The United Way of Eastern Maine announced Friday the 10-year community goals for its 2028 initiative at its annual Campaign Kickoff at the Bangor Recreation Department.
The kickoff, which was relocated from Williams Park because of weather conditions, gathered together dozens of community businesses, agencies, donors and volunteers to mark the start of this year’s fundraising efforts.
Shirar Patterson, president and CEO of United Way of Eastern Maine, announced the three “bold goals” based on feedback provided by local business and partners, to help solve issues deemed most important by the community.
Patterson noted that, in Eastern Maine, more than 107,000 people live in poverty, more than 100 people have died from substance use disorder each year on average and only 48 percent of students have reading proficiency at the end of third grade.
By 2028, the goals are to move 10,476 Eastern Mainers out of poverty, eliminate all deaths because of substance use disorder and increase the percent of children reading proficiency to 58 percent.
To start off, this year, United Way is pledging to raise $1.88 million.
“These are the community goals, they are not just my goals, they are not just your goals,” Patterson said. “We are going to affect change in the community and improve people’s lives.”
Radio personality Ric Tyler, who also spoke at the event, recognized the Shaw House, which provides support for homeless and at-risk youth. The United Way helps provide the funding to make the Shaw House’s mission successful.
“[The United Way] is wonderful. They are incredibly supportive,” Dan Fleming, program director at the Shaw House, said. “They are all about everyone they help.”
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