The Pen Bay Council of the Mid-Coast Board of REALTORS has distributed fundraising checks to four local charities, each selected by Brian Wickenden, the 2023 Pen Bay Council REALTOR of the Year. These funds, matched by the Maine Association of REALTORS (MAR) Foundation, will provide vital support to AIO Energy Assistance, Homeworthy, New Hope Midcoast, and Habitat for Humanity.

The contributions were raised through the ongoing efforts of the Pen Bay Council and its members, who are committed to supporting the communities they serve. Thanks to the MAR Foundation’s Matching Grant program, the impact of local REALTORS’ donations has been amplified, helping ensure that these organizations can continue their critical work.

Brian Wickenden, the 2023 REALTOR of the Year for the Pen Bay Council, selected AIO Energy Assistance, Homeworthy, New Hope Midcoast, and Habitat for Humanity as the recipients of these donations. Monét Yarnell, the 2023 REALTOR of the Year for the Waldo County Council, selected New Hope Midcoast as her charity recipient, and a check for that organization was also included in this initiative.

The four recipient organizations include:

 AIO Energy Assistance: Provides essential energy assistance and other critical support to individuals and families in need. Alan Kearl, Executive Director, expressed his gratitude, stating, “These gifts make so much difference in the lives of the recipients. With this donation, we will be able to help 9-10 additional households during this particularly cold winter season. Thank you for your generosity.”

 Homeworthy: Supports homeless veterans and families in the region by providing access to housing and case management services. Chrys deLormier, Director of Development, noted, “With these donations, neighbors in Midcoast communities experiencing homelessness will have access to housing navigation services and help with overcoming barriers to stable housing.”

 New Hope Midcoast: Offers counseling, support services, and advocacy for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Joan LeMole, Development Director, thanked both the Waldo County and Pen Bay Councils, along with the MAR Foundation, for their generosity. “This $9,620 will help survivors obtain and maintain safe and stable housing for themselves and their families,” she said.

 Habitat for Humanity: Builds and repairs homes for low-income families, helping them achieve homeownership. Tia Anderson of Midcoast Habitat for Humanity said, “These funds will help complete our homes at Firefly Field in Rockland. Our three Habitat homes will be completed by June, and this project represents the power of collaboration in our community.”

The Pen Bay Council is proud of its continued dedication to supporting local charitable organizations through donations and volunteer efforts. Their work is essential in creating a stronger, more vibrant community for all. For more information on how to get involved or to learn more about the Pen Bay Council’s charitable initiatives, contact: Jen Johanson Association Executive Mid-Coast Board of REALTORS jenjohansonae@gmail.com 207 390 0159

The Pen Bay Council of the Mid-Coast Board of REALTORS® is a professional organization serving the real estate community in Knox County and Waldo County, Maine. The Council is committed to promoting professionalism, ethics, and community involvement among its members, working to foster positive relationships within the local communities.