2023 Goals
- Broaden the statewide reach of the LifeFlight mission and story, so that more people in Maine understand the full range of LifeFlight’s services and that it is a nonprofit organization.
- Successfully raise the $1.9 million needed to purchase three specialized ground ambulances, which will be stationed at each LifeFlight base (Sanford, Lewiston and Bangor).
- Work with existing corporate and nonprofit partners to expand LifeFlight’s partnerships in three key areas: recreation and tourism, lumber and logging, and coastal/island communities.
- Strengthen current donors’ connections to LifeFlight and attract more donors to support this vital service.
- Expand the Grateful Patient Program, creating an engaged community of patients and families.
- Leverage the networks, commitment and expertise of our talented, committed Board members.
- Navigate the complex event landscape to strategically expand the Cross for LifeFlight.
Fundraising events/Opportunities
The Cross for LifeFlight, which takes place each August, is our most important fundraising event of the year. Participants choose where, when and how they want to “Cross” for LifeFlight, and then share their photos and track their miles on an interactive portal. In 2023, we added three guided group events: a bike ride, a hike and a sea kayak paddle. We also created the event’s first Grateful Patient Team for LifeFlight patients and their families. The event features a fantastic participant kit and fundraising incentives comprised of quality gear. While significant revenue is generated from peer-to-peer fundraising, many donors prefer to support the event directly. We welcome support from sponsors and offer great packages based on mutually beneficial partnerships.
Giving Opportunities
With more than 37,000 patients transported since 1998, many businesses have employees, family members or customers who have benefitted from our service. They understand and appreciate the unique role that LifeFlight plays in connecting Maine’s fragile and fragmented health care system. We have a comprehensive annual giving program and a robust memorial giving program. In fall 2022, we established our Grateful Patient Program. Our annual Cross for LifeFlight event and Emergency Care Open golf tournament attract corporate participants, sponsors, in-kind donations and volunteers. Every year, we raise funds for capital projects such as aircraft, aviation and communication infrastructure, medical equipment, as well as for state-wide critical care education, which is an integral component of LifeFlight. The business community is an essential partner in those efforts.
Volunteer Opportunities
LifeFlight was created and is sustained by those it serves: the people of Maine. Each year through our Community Giving Program, we reach out to municipalities across Maine asking for their support. We invite our friends and advocates in each community to play an active role in helping us make these presentations at town and budget committee meetings. LifeFlight carries blood on every transport, which can be lifesaving for some patients. We partner with the Red Cross to host blood drives throughout the year and always welcome more donors and volunteers. We encourage anyone with ideas or who wants to get involved to reach out to us!
