As Maine’s Children’s Home modernizes a 60-year-old building with expanded space for clinical counseling and other services, the Waterville-based nonprofit recently honored supporters of its work to build and strengthen families across the state.
The April 9 event highlighted how community support is helping the group expand services and create a new Family Center in the renovated Lunder Building on its Silver Street campus.
The new facility will enable the organization to increase its capacity for clients and hire additional clinicians. The nonprofit was founded in 1899 and serves close to 3,000 individuals annually.
“This celebration recognizes the partnerships and leadership that made our work possible in 2025,” Interim Executive Director Dan Booth said in a news release about the event.
“Support from across our community — from individual donors to business partnerships — allows us to continue serving children and families throughout Maine,” he added. “The expansion with our Family Center will strengthen that capacity.”
Among the honors presented April 9 was the Marden’s Red Stocking Sales Competition award, honoring the Waterville store for topping sales in the company’s annual holiday fundraiser benefiting children and families through Maine Children’s Home.
In 2025, Marden’s customers and the Marden family raised nearly $62,000, including a $10,000 gift from Marden family members. Over the past two decades, Marden’s has helped raise close to $900,000 in support of Maine Children’s Home.
The MCH Champion Award was presented to Paul S. Goodof, a member of the organization’s board of directors, for his leadership and ongoing support.
Maine Children’s Home also recognized volunteers for their time and service. Cynthia Glynn contributed over 300 hours to the organization, while Jeanne Crocker donated 200 hours. Nancy Merrill contributed 171 hours of service, and Patty Brown and Heidi Owen were honored for 87 hours each.
The organization employs 20 people and has an annual operating budget just above $1.9 million.
