2024 Goals
- To be completed in early 2024, comprehensive planning will result in a refreshed approach that imagines new ways to serve island and Downeast coastal communities of Maine while reinforcing the vital familiar services that our communities continue to depend on.
- By spring of 2024, construction will be complete on the new Downeast Engagement Center on the Cherryfield campus. The new center will include a new food pantry, welcome center, offices and much needed storage for program equipment.
- Since 2002, islanders have relied on the Sunbeam nurse and crew to connect them with mainland providers through an onboard telemedicine clinic. With increased telehealth comfort and connectivity in the home, Sunbeam staff are working with islanders to imagine the next generation of support for Maine’s unbridged islands’ year-round communities.
Fundraising events/Opportunities
Sunbeam Award Gala – Taking place each August in Bar Harbor, our signature fundraising event honors organizations and individuals making a positive impact in our communities. Past recipients include artist and author Ashley Bryan; Downeast Education Partners; Maine Community Foundation; Acadia Senior College; Ruth and Tristram Colket; former Maine State Sen. Hon. Jill M. Goldthwait; Earl Brechlin and Alan Baker; and Sigma Kappa.
EdGE Tennis Tournament – Each September, a day of competitive matches raises funds for our Ed Greaves Education (EdGE) youth development program, which serves Downeast Maine.
Giving Opportunities
The Mission Fund – Gifts and grants provide operating or project support for Mission programs.
The Hope Society – Create a legacy through a planned gift such as a bequest.
Corporate Sponsorship – Become a sponsor for our organization and create a customized package to best fit your organization’s goals.
Mission Downeast Capital Campaign – Contribute to the capital campaign project on the Cherryfield campus. Capital improvements will build stronger social connections, provide more healthy meals and food classes, raise aspirations in children, knit families closer together, and help communities achieve their goals.
Volunteer Opportunities
Mount Desert Island – Historical archives, events and Christmas program.
Downeast – Housing improvement summer volunteers, mentorship of middle and high school students in the Journey program, Christmas program and Food Security program opportunities such as food deliveries to seniors, assistance in the Mission’s food pantry and community meal preparation.
