Heart of Maine United Way (HoMEUW) will award more than $2.3 million over the next three years to support critical nonprofit programs across Hancock, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Somerset, Waldo, and Washington counties. The investment, made through HoMEUW’s Strategic Investment Grants, was celebrated at a partner breakfast event on Tuesday, July 15 at the Gracie Theatre on the campus of Husson University.
The event brought together nonprofit partners, community leaders, volunteers, and supporters for networking and remarks.
This cycle of Strategic Investment Grants will fund 35 high-impact programs and 1 regional coalition, advancing HoMEUW’s three bold goal areas: improving early childhood success, increasing financial stability, and supporting substance use prevention and recovery. The grants provide largely unrestricted, three-year funding, allowing nonprofit partners the flexibility to respond to local needs and invest in long-term impact.
“These grants reflect the heart of our mission to strengthen communities through partnership, trust, and action,” said Shirar Patterson, President & CEO of Heart of Maine United Way. “We’re proud to stand alongside these exceptional nonprofits as they lead vital work across our region.”
Funding decisions were made by more than 70 trained community volunteers who reviewed, scored, and deliberated over a competitive slate of proposals. Final recommendations were approved by the HoMEUW Board of Directors.
“These investments were deeply informed by our communities,” said Matt Donahue, Vice President & Chief Impact Officer of HoMEUW. “We are incredibly grateful to the volunteers whose time, care, and consideration guided this process. Thanks to our donors and partners, we’re not just funding programs—we’re strengthening a sector and supporting outcomes that matter.”
In addition to grantmaking, HoMEUW is investing additional resources in nonprofit sector capacity—including training opportunities, peer learning networks, community convenings, and shared tools—to support both funded and unfunded organizations across the region.
