River Coalition   

The River Coalition sponsors after school programs at 6 schools within our service area.  Each of these programs was started through collaboration with the Department of Education's 21st Century Community Learning Center program and the each school's staff.  After school programs focus on grades 3-8 and include academic support (in some cases tutoring), enrichment programs, cultural programs, fitness/athletic programs, etc.  Some schools schedule programs throughout the year while others have several short sessions.  Please visit the school websites for more information.

Alton Elementary School

Viola Rand Elementary School, Bradley

Helen Dunn School, Greenbush

Lewis Libby School, Milford

Old Town Elementary School

Mentoring is provided through partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Maine (a program of Downeast Health Services) and the University of Maine Office of Volunteer Programs.  The Black Bear Mentor program is the single largest volunteer offered at the University of Maine.  Mentor sites include Viola Rand Elementary School (Bradley), Helen Dunn School (Greenbush), Old Town Elementary, Indian Island School, and Leonard Middle School.  Mentors are recruited by the Volunteer Office and then undergo screening interviews, background checks and training prior to meeting with their mentee.  Mentees are selected through a process which includes parent request/approval and Guidance and/or teacher recommendation.  All mentees (generally in grades 4-8) must have a permission form completed by their parent/guardian, and will meet with the Guidance Counselor and Mentor Coordinator prior to meeting wtih their mentor.  Mentors and mentees meet once weekly for approximately 2 hours either during lunchtime or the afterschool program.  Snacks and transportation are available for mentees.

Click here for more information on the Family Matters campaign.

Two literacy programs for high school aged students are provide at the Old Town Public Library.  (More information to follow.)

You Be The Judge is a nationally recognized program which is offered at the Old Town Public Library.  The program has grown so much in the last 4 years that we have just added a second group.  Each group meets one evening per month from October through May.  (More information to follow.)

The Youth-Led Leadership Group meets monthly usually at the Old Town Public Library.  The group coordinates service activities in our communities as well as fundraisers to support additional projects.  Meeting dates and times are currently posted at the school, and will also be on our website.