United Way presents new nonprofit hub to Bangor Livable Communities Committee

A United Way representative briefed the Bangor Livable Communities Committee on the organization's new nonprofit hub located in the Evergreen Woods Complex. The presentation covered the hub's role in supporting the regional nonprofit sector through shared space, training, and volunteer coordination. Committee members raised questions about the hub's specific role in coordinating services for homelessness and substance use, noting that the facility primarily serves as a capacity-building resource rather than a direct service coordinator.

Key points

• United Way explained that the new hub at 101 Evergreen Woods Complex offers subsidized office space, meeting rooms, and training programs for nonprofits across six counties.
• Councilor Wayne Mallar expressed disappointment that the hub does not directly coordinate or track outcomes for homelessness and addiction services, clarifying that United Way funds programs but does not manage service delivery.
• The representative stated that United Way serves six counties including Penobscot, Somerset, and Washington, with a mission to mobilize communities for basic needs, substance use disorder, and early childhood development.
• Susan Hawes inquired about financial details, including overhead costs and the distribution of heating assistance funds, which totaled $108,000 this year.
• Public commenters noted low attendance at committee meetings and expressed interest in better understanding the nonprofit landscape in Bangor.

Next steps

• United Way will provide the committee with a list of its 32 funded nonprofit partners.
• The representative will follow up with data on the economic impact of nonprofits in the region, including payroll and job statistics.
• United Way will share information on upcoming training events, including sessions on financial statements and graphic design using Canva.

Read the full transcript