CAMDEN — United Midcoast Charities announced that it has recently been named a "2017 Top-Rated Nonprofit" by GreatNonprofits, the leading provider of user reviews of charities and nonprofits.

United Midcoast Charities (UMC) provides grants to more than 50 nonprofit organizations Knox and Waldo counties that provide essential services to residents in need.

"We are honored to be named a 2017 Top-Rated Nonprofit," said UMC Board President John Viehman "We are proud of our accomplishments this year, including the addition of a full-time executive director, $500,000 in grants to our local community and the wrap-up of a new strategic plan outlining new funding and guidance initiatives to support our grantees."

The Top-Rated Nonprofit Award is based on the rating and number of reviews that United Midcoast Charities received from volunteers, donors and aid recipients.

"Creating positive change for individuals, families, and communities requires considerable collaboration," said Penquis CEO Kara Hay, in her review of United Midcoast Charities. "While we appreciate the financial support that United Midcoast Charities offers to social service and nonprofit agencies, we are most impressed by their willingness to join conversations around the needs of the Midcoast region. UMC contributes to positive, solution-focused discussion then actively partners with other organizations to increase and improve supports and services available to the community. They are a valuable resource to this region of Maine."

"United Midcoast Charities is a great example of a nonprofit making a real difference in their community," added Perla Ni, CEO of GreatNonprofits. "Their award is well-deserved recognition not only of their work, but the tremendous support they receive, as shown by the many outstanding reviews they have received from people who have direct experience working with UMC."