Nonprofits

Frances Perkins, who served as the country's first female secretary of labor under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, will be inducted into the Maine Women's Hall of Fame next month alongside Dr. Alane O'Connor of MaineHealth Maine Medical Center.

The Maine Association of Realtors Foundation is matching funds raised by brokers, boards and councils across the state to support 25 organizations that help provide housing or fuel assistance.

The volunteer-run nonprofit Dirigo Reads has gifted new books to more than 3,500 first graders across Maine.

The new Maine Endurance Sports Alliance will manage running races in Bangor, Lincoln, Waterville and Augusta.

Previously the organization's COO, Vendt had stepped into the role of interim leader this past July, following the departure of former CEO Rob Gray.

Sarah Smith will lead the volunteer-led organization as its first active director, while outgoing President Katie Shorey will stay active on the board.

Andy Beahm, the center's executive director, said the planned building will incorporate exterior nest shelves, so that birds can continue to make Gilsland Farm their home.

The nonprofit has grown from one staffer to eight, with over 300 volunteers annually and a growing portfolio of housing developments. The goal is to triple its space.

Mainebiz sat down with Tae Chong, executive director of Furniture Friends in Westbrook, to find out more about Maine's only furniture bank.

Economic signs are not as "hopeful" as a year ago, and one Maine leader fears there's a chance of recession.