As scams targeting older adults continue to rise, Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (CEI) is taking action to help safeguard seniors and their families. CEI announces Scam Smarts, a comprehensive initiative featuring a free workshop series, online video, and downloadable toolkit. This program is designed to educate older adults on how scams happen, how to spot warning signs, and how to prevent fraud before it occurs.

"With support from the Maine Community Foundation, CEI’s Scam Smarts program empowers participants with practical tips, actionable strategies, and real-life scenarios to build awareness and confidence," said CEI, in a news release. "By understanding common scam tactics, older adults and their families will be better prepared to protect themselves and respond effectively to suspicious activity."

Website and Toolkit HighlightsCEI’s Scam Smarts website hosts a variety of free tools to help seniors protect their assets and personal information.

• Scam Smarts Toolkit: a printable, easy-to-use resource for families and community organizations. It includes:

• Prevention Tips: Covers 20 common scams, including online, phone, and in-person schemes

• Step-by-step Guidance: What to do if you’re affected

• Reporting Hotlines: Contact information for state and federal agencies

• Scam Smarts Video:  a seven-minute video highlighting common scam scenarios and how to identify them

• Workshop Recording: Recording of an in-person workshop

“Scammers are getting smarter — but so can we," said Mechelle Given, Financial Development Services Counselor at CEI. "By sharing real stories and practical tools, we’re helping older adults and their families build confidence and resilience against fraud.” 

Workshop Details

In addition to the digital resources, CEI will be holding a series of free, in-person workshops, with the next workshop on December 4, in Topsham.

Scam Smarts Workshop: Recognize & Avoid Common Scams

• Thursday, December 4, 2025, 11AM-Noon

• Adult Ed Center, 35 Republic Avenue, Topsham

• Free Registration: https://merrymeeting.coursestorm.com/course/scam-smarts-workshop

• Thursday January 8, 2026 1:30 - 2:30 PM

• Westbrook Community Center, 426 Bridge St, Westbrook

• Registration Coming Soon

More workshops are being scheduled now. To check for future workshops in your area, visit: https://www.ceimaine.org/events/tag/scam-smarts/. If you are an organization looking to host a future workshop, please contact Mechelle Given at mechelle.given@ceimaine.org or 207‑613-7783.

"Together, we can build a safer, more informed community for older adults and their families," said CEI.

The Maine Community Foundation (MaineCF) is a statewide public foundation working to build a vibrant, equitable Maine where people and communities thrive. Since its founding in 1983, MaineCF has partnered with donors, nonprofits, and local leaders to strengthen communities, expand educational opportunities, and promote economic resilience. With more than 2,200 funds under management and over $665 million distributed to date, the foundation supports initiatives that improve quality of life across the state, awarding thousands of grants and scholarships each year. Learn more at www.mainecf.org.