United Midcoast Charities (UMC) welcomes Janine Gates, of Belfast, and Brittany Acciavatti, of Lincolnville, to its Board of Directors.

"Both bring valuable experience, strong community ties, and a shared commitment to strengthening nonprofits across Knox and Waldo counties," said UMC, in a news release.

Janine Gates joins the board with more than two decades of nonprofit experience in Ontario, Canada, where she worked in substance use treatment services in clinical, management, and policy roles. Through her consulting business, she supported a wide range of organizations with planning, program development, training, research, and facilitation. Since moving to Belfast in 2015, she has served on the board of The Restorative Justice Project, including as Vice-chair and Chair of the Governance Committee. Gates has been an active volunteer with UMC and looks forward to contributing more deeply to its mission.

“I believe that nonprofit organizations are at the heart of healthy communities in Waldo and Knox counties," said Gates. "I joined the board of UMC to help support our nonprofits with funding where it’s most needed and with information and learning resources.”

Brittany Acciavatti is a registered nurse, educator, and engaged Lincolnville community member. Her professional background includes nursing at Massachusetts General Hospital and inpatient hospice, where she worked closely with patients and families. She also serves on the Lincolnville School Board and previously homeschooled her three children, an experience that strengthened her understanding of youth needs and family challenges in a post-pandemic world.

Acciavatti brings a firsthand perspective on what young people and families are experiencing in schools, activities, and community life across the Midcoast, according to UMC.

“At a time when so much feels uncertain and beyond our control, I was drawn to UMC because we have a meaningful way to contribute directly to our community by strengthening the many local nonprofits already doing so much for the people who live here,” said Acciavatti.

UMC Executive Director Becca Gildred welcomed both new members, noting the value of their lived experience and commitment to community.

“Janine and Brittany each bring a wealth of experience and a genuine commitment to our community," said Gildred. "We are thrilled to welcome them to the board and look forward to the perspective, energy, and care they will bring to UMC’s work.” 

United Midcoast Charities plays a pivotal role in providing financial support, strategic guidance, and tangible resources to Midcoast nonprofits providing services in our four focus areas of food, housing, health & safety, and economic security. UMC strengthens these community-focused organizations to achieve their missions more effectively and have a greater impact.