Expansion into Androscoggin County

Ensuring youth mentoring continues after the closure of BBBS of Mid-Maine

We are proud to announce an expansion of our service area to include Androscoggin County. This important step ensures that local youth in Lewiston and surrounding communities will continue to have access to mentoring support following the sudden closure of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine, which served the area until mid-summer.

For nearly 45 years, BBBS of Bath/Brunswick has created one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth in Brunswick, Harpswell, and Sagadahoc County. By extending services into Androscoggin County, we are filling a critical gap for children and families seeking support, connection, and opportunity.

Continuing Support for Local Youth

The agency will immediately take over the mentoring program at Connors Elementary School in Lewiston, ensuring that students who have been matched with Bates College “Bigs” experience no disruption in their mentoring relationships.

To support this transition, longtime program leader Jennifer Cartmell, who has successfully led the Connors program for the past eight years, has joined the BBBS of Bath/Brunswick team. Her experience and dedication will help sustain this vital partnership and maintain stability for youth and volunteers.

Over time, we will expand our reach to serve youth and families throughout Androscoggin County, starting with community and school-based matches in the towns of Lisbon, Lisbon Falls, and Durham.

What This Expansion Means

• Continuity for kids and families – No youth will lose their mentoring connection due to the Mid-Maine closure.

• Community collaboration – Local partners, schools, and volunteers are coming together to sustain these vital relationships.

• Growth with purpose – BBBS of Bath/Brunswick is expanding thoughtfully to ensure quality and long-term sustainability.

• Call to action – Community members are invited to get involved by volunteering, donating, or spreading the word.

Q&A

Q: Why did BBBS of Bath/Brunswick expand into Androscoggin County?
When Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine closed, we stepped up to ensure kids wouldn’t lose their mentoring support. These relationships are life-changing, and we couldn’t let them lapse.

Q: How will this expansion affect your existing programs?
Our programs in Bath, Brunswick, and Sagadahoc County remain strong and fully supported. We’re adding capacity to serve Androscoggin County without taking resources away from existing programs.

Q: How will you sustain this growth?
We’re expanding carefully and building partnerships to ensure stability. Community support through donations and volunteerism will be key to long-term success.

Q: What can community members do to help?
The most important thing you can do is get involved — become a mentor, make a donation, or help spread the word. Every act of support helps a child realize their potential.