Portland, ME May 2024

The Ladies' Issue

SUMMER READY.

“Never Forget Where You Came From”

That’s a maxim you’ve likely heard and perhaps taken for granted many times since childhood, but for Portland restaurateur Nonglack Thanephonesy— who immigrated to the U.S. from Thailand—those have become words to live by.

We profiled Thanephonesy for our inaugural issue in May of last year, and the authentic Thai specialties from Dok Mali, her India Street outpost, were featured on the cover. I’ve since enjoyed many memorable meals at Dok Mali, and there’s no denying that reverence for where she came from is infused into every bite and has contributed to her success.

Thanephonesy is just one of many inspiring women who’ve let us into their worlds over the past year so that we could bring you their stories. It’s been an honor getting to know these trailblazers and learning about their passions, what they stand for, and challenges they’ve overcome. For issue number 13, our Ladies’ issue, we’re introducing you to even more great women doing great things in and for our communities.

As we celebrate one year of Portland City Lifestyle, I’m thinking about where we’ve come from, too, and looking forward to where we’re going. It’s been an exciting year, but there’s so much more to come. As a female entrepreneur in Portland, I’m beyond grateful be in such good company.

EMILY HARRADON, PUBLISHER @PORTLAND.CITYLIFESTYLE

CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/PORTLANDME

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Emily Harradon | emily.harradon@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Rebecca Abramson rebecca.abramson@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Meghan Morrison | meghan.morrison@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kim Chapman Photography, Jen Deraspe / Follow Joy Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Laura Paige

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Portland Trust Company is a Maine non-depository trust company focused exclusively on wealth management and fiduciary services. We work with individuals and families, nonprofits, and local governments. We do everything the giant financial services organizations do while providing local and accessible attention to your specific needs.

It’s more than just a name. Portland Trust Company is the only financial institution in the state with “Portland” as its namesake. We love our hometown as much as you do! This is more than a place of business for us; this is our home and our way of life. It’s our promise to treat you as more than a client, but as a friend and neighbor.

Our customer experience is “real,” like walking next door to borrow some sugar or eggs. We’ve created a home for our clients and their assets—managing their money, their lives, and their futures—with peace of mind knowing that we are a fully regulated financial institution. Together, we embrace our Maine way of life.

558-6220

City

Amelia Dow, CTFA, CEO and James MacLeod, Esq., President

FOR TICKETS & MEMBERSHIP

• Online at portlandovations.org

• By phone by calling 207.842.0800

• In person by visiting the PortTIX Box Office

Love Your Skin

Rising

Who Run the World?

100 Women Who Care

Dr. Allison Goddard, MD

1: Performers from the Stillson School of Irish Dance celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at RiRa. 2: Participants warm up after Two Maine Mermaids’ annual International Women’s Day Ocean Dip. 3: Guitarist Xander Nelson rocks out at MAMM Winter Rise. 4: Models walk the runway at the annual Women United Around the World fashion show and gala. 5: Dr. Heather Keeling relaxes in the Dental Loft’s bright new office on Congress Street. 6: Blake and Kelly from Coast 93.1 emcee the Portland Ovations POP Fundraiser at O’Maine Studios. 7: Katrina Forrest, Dustyn Bailey, and Colleen Craig at Portland City Lifestyle’s Love Local event.

Designed by Robin Davis Interiors I Image by Lauren Lear Photography

business monthly

Blue Lobster Winery Takes Over UFF Tasting Room

Portland-based Blue Lobster Urban Winery, founded in 2017 by winemaker Chris Gamble, is moving to 200 Anderson Street, the space formerly occupied by Urban Farm Fermentory. According to Gamble, the move will result in an expanded tasting room, larger production facilities to account for the business's growth, and additional outdoor space for weekly events. A new wine cocktail program is expected to be announced soon. bluelobsterwines.com

Chef Huong Le Brings Vietnamese Street Eats to Portland

In 2000, Chef Huong Le opened Portland's first sit-down Vietnamese restaurant; 19 years later, her daughter Snow Thi Le launched Banh Appetit, a Vietnamese cafe that specializes in grab-and-go banh mi sandwiches. Following a recent trip to Vietnam, Chef Huong Le is back in action: in March, she launched Mama Le, operating out of the Banh Appetit kitchen after-hours. Expect take-out vegetarian and vegan Vietnamese street food including stir-fried noodle dishes, egg rolls, and more.

3 Local Businesses Receive 2024 SBA Maine District Awards

The U.S. Small Business Administration's Maine District Office extended awards to three southern Maine businesses this year: Niky Dwin Watler Amaris and Martha Leonard of Maiz Colombian Street Food received the annual award for Maine and New England Minority-Owned Small Business of the Year; Kirantee Sangsap of Studio Choo11 in Scarborough was named Maine's Home-Based Business of the Year; and Grace Mo-Phillips of Belle Cove was declared Maine's Small Business Exporter of the Year.

Photography by Kira Sangsap

Want to be featured?

Pinebury Opens in the Black Box on Washington Avenue

Founded by Kyle Rancourt, Maine-based activewear brand Pinebury is opening a retail location in Washington Avenue’s repurposed shipping container-turnedbusiness incubator. Focused on fair labor practices, traditional craftsmanship, and environmental accountability, Pinebury specializes in stylish activewear made with NuYarn, a patented technology that results in a stronger, lighter, faster-drying, and more comfortable fabric than regular merino wool. Designed by Kyle's wife, Ashley Edgecomb, the retail space will resemble a retro-fitted bike studio. pinebury.us

Free Nurse Support Group Led by Holistic Practitioner Corbin Chase

Corbin's support group for Portland-area nurses investigates different ways of thinking to restore a sense of purpose, bringing brightness to both work and home life. Sessions focus on the unique obstacles and difficulties nurses encounter. The group's experiences will drive the conversation as Corbin incorporates holistic and alternative methods to provide support and guidance. A strong emphasis is placed on confidentiality and privacy to ensure a supportive environment for open sharing and meaningful connections. corbinchase.health/nurse-support-group

Mercy Hospital Site Transformed Into Condos and Affordable Housing

Redfern Properties and NewHeight Group are partnering on the transformation of Mercy Hospital's State Street campus into two buildings consisting of apartments, commercial retail suites, and self-storage space. In partnership with Community Housing of Maine and the Portland Housing Authority, the new development will be home to 100 units of affordable housing along with 171 market-rate apartments. A common space and outdoor plaza will sit between the buildings, which are expected to open mid-2024.

the CITY LIST

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Medical Spa

Maine Aesthetic Medicine maineaestheticmedicine.com | 207.298.3164

Meg & Co. megandcoaesthetics.com | 207.331.4177

Cosmetic Enhancement Center of New England cecofne.com | 207.761.0177

Rytualist Aesthetics Bar rytualist.com | 207.317.3570

Elle Medical Aesthetics ellemedicalaesthetics.online | 207.838.3553

Hair Salon

Shine Salon shinesalonme.com | 207.591.5597

Mint Salon Block mintsalonblock.com | 207.274.7060

Ollo Hair Salon ollohairsalon.com | 207.619.7064

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

Bei Capelli beicapelli.com | 888.355.2773

Eunoia eunoiaportland.com

ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CECOFNE

DR. MARIA ATKINS GIVES PATIENTS CONFIDENCE AT THE COSMETIC ENHANCEMENT CENTER OF NEW ENGLAND

Dr. Maria Atkins, co-owner and medical director at the Cosmetic Enhancement Center of New England (CECofNE), found the field of aesthetic medicine thanks to a surgical practice rotation

“Recognizing names on my schedule and seeing patients that I’ve known for years makes for a fun work day.”

At CECofNE, Dr. Atkins works alongside a team of exclusively women.

“AESTHETIC TREATMENTS CAN HELP PATIENTS—ESPECIALLY WOMEN—FEEL MORE CONFIDENT.”

during her residency. “The surgical practice I was rotating in brought cosmetic lasers into the office once a month, which introduced me to laser treatments. I love the technology and the ability to treat conditions that often get ignored by primary care providers,” she says. Atkins’ passion for aesthetic medicine grew over the years, and she continues to stay up-todate on new treatments and services as they become available. When Botox was first FDA-approved for cosmetic use in 2002, Dr. Atkins trained with Drs. Jean and Alastair Carruthers, who were pioneering the treatment. “I was one of the first physicians in Maine to use Botox for cosmetic purposes,” Atkins adds.

“I always loved making new modalities available to patients, but after having so many years in the field, it’s also become very satisfying to see how many of my patients have now become friends,” she notes.

“As a female business owner, it’s very special to work with other women who are experts in their field. I brag about this to my friends and family daily! Everyone on my team, from providers to management to support staff, strives to be their best self at work every day.” Another facet of the job that Dr. Atkins finds most rewarding is giving people confidence by treating issues that patients may have been self-conscious about for years. “Whether it’s botox or filler to enhance someone’s appearance and treat volume loss or managing various skin conditions like hyperpigmentation, aesthetic treatments can help patients—especially women—feel more confident,” she says.

CECofNE offers a variety of services and treatments to keep patients feeling beautiful at any age. For starters, Dr. Atkins suggests Diamond Glow treatments and a medical-grade skincare regimen for teens looking to keep their skin blemish-free. “We offer the

only FDA-approved energy device for mild to severe acne, called Aviclear,” she explains. “It’s a series of laser treatments that targets acne at its source: sebum. The treatment is a safe, effective way to target acne without any harmful prescription medications.”

For women in their 20s and 30s hoping to slow down the signs of aging, Dr. Atkins recommends a consistent skincare routine, microneedling treatments (to boost collagen production), chemical peels (to maintain the skin’s radiance), and for those with fine lines and wrinkles beginning to appear, preventative Botox. These same treatments are helpful for women in their 40s and 50s who are eager to age gracefully; they can also consider fillers for volume loss and skin-tightening treatments to help with skin laxity.

Patients in their 60s and 70s may find that they need more frequent visits to keep up with collagen production and the aging process. “Deeper chemical peels and laser resurfacing are common, especially if older patients haven’t taken care of their skin,” she adds. “The most important thing—for patients of any age— is to use sunscreen to minimize sun damage.” Aesthetic treatments, of course, are not required to maintain youthful-looking skin, but, Dr. Atkins says, “We strive to refresh the confidence of our patients through individualized treatment plans and effective, reliable services.”

Melissa Mullen Photography

RISING STAR

Portland Rising founder, owner, and player

Chloë Rowse details her path to becoming a pro athlete

Chloë Rowse, it seems, was destined to become a professional ultimate frisbee player. “When my sisters and I were younger, my dad would throw the frisbee and we’d chase it down almost like dogs,” she laughs. Her father, Rob, was an ultimate frisbee athlete before the sport gained popularity in Maine; in 1976, he played in the world championships at the Rose Bowl, and Rowse recalls attending her father’s games while growing up in the early 2000s.

Fast forward to 2008, when the Maine Coast Waldorf High School reached out to Rob to see if he was interested in coaching (the answer was a resounding “yes”). Although Rowse

was only in 8th grade at the Waldorf school, she had experience playing ultimate and was invited to join the high school team. When she entered high school herself, Rowse changed schools and played for Falmouth High School. “They were also looking for a coach, and my dad switched to coaching there so that we could continue being a part of the same team together.” For the first few years, Rowse was the only girl on a team full of high school boys. Eventually, a few other women joined the team, but, according to Rowse, “it was generally a boy’s league with a couple of girls here and there who would match up against each other on the field.”

ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIM CHAPMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

When it came time to decide on a college, Rowse decided ultimate frisbee was an integral part of her life and looked for a school with a great ultimate program. She settled on Colorado College, where she played on a women’s team for the first time before playing for the US Women’s Team in London, England in 2014. After graduating with a dual degree in studio art and education, Rowse moved to Amsterdam where she helped start (and played on) a women’s ultimate frisbee team. In 2018, she moved back to Portland and saw how much the sport had grown since she left town. “There are so many high school teams now—girls, mixed, and boys—and there are A, B, and C teams. There’s also the Maine Ultimate Summer League in Portland, which is huge, and there are a handful of club teams,” she says. The only thing missing was an elite team on which Rowse could play against other athletes at her level.

“The Maine ultimate community is incredible, but I started traveling to Boston to play higher level teams. I was always like, ‘I want that team to be here. I want to play in Maine. If all of us who traveled would just stay, we could create something amazing here,’” she remembers.In 2019, the ultimate (pardon the pun) opportunity presented itself: the Premier Ultimate League, a new professional league for non-male athletes announced it was expanding and accepting applications. “It all happened super fast,” Rowse laughs. “We submitted an application in October, we were accepted in November, and we launched the team in December. I remember sitting down and thinking, ‘We have to come up with a name. We need a logo. We need to hire coaches and become a real thing in a very short amount of time.’” There were, of course, several hurdles at the beginning: “We're a sport that’s new to the mainstream, and we’re not a men’s sports team,” she explains. "But providing this level of play in Portland is really big, and for us to provide gender equity in the sport is amazing." Portland Rising tryouts in January 2020 brought over 100 players from all over New England, but then the pandemic hit and the team’s first season was put on hold.

The 2024 season, which runs April to June, will be the team’s fourth. “Our tryouts this year were really competitive,” Rowse says. “This might be the strongest roster we’ve had in the history of the team. Plus, it feels like we’ve really honed in on what’s important to us and where we want to direct our energy. It took a few years, but we’re really starting to hit our groove both on and off the field,” she adds. Every Portland Rising player is involved in an off-the-field committee focused on a topic ranging from carbon control and equity to community connections

What’s in a name?

“When brainstorming our team’s name, we thought about Portland and how the city is rising in popularity, about Maine being the first state to see the sunrise, and the idea of tides—when the tide rises, all the boats rise with it. There are club and youth teams in Maine called Red Tide, Rising Tide, and Rip Tide, so the area has been playing on the ocean theme for a while. Then there’s the city’s motto, which is ‘Resurgam,’ meaning ‘I shall rise again.’ We put that on our jerseys—with launching the team during COVID, it’s really the perfect motto for us.”

Photo: Mark Lessard

and social events. “We recognized that this team is about more than just how we play on the field. We’re out there in front of the world, and we want to be intentional about our values as a team,” Rowse explains.

The fact that the team even exists is one of Rowse’s greatest accomplishments. “I remember watching a men’s showcase game in high school, with all of these amazing players who traveled around playing club teams,” she says. “It never crossed my mind that I could play in the same way,” she says, because growing up, she had only seen it as a reality for men.

Rowse understands the importance of showing younger athletes what’s possible, and creating a space for equity, accessibility, and visibility in the sport is important to the entire team. “I want younger athletes to know that if you really want something, you can make it a reality," she says. she says. “There are always limiting factors, like financially being able to play a sport, but make sure that it’s those outside factors that are stopping you and not how you feel inside.”

2024 Schedule

“Having a team in Portland is great because we can be a big fish in a smaller pond. We’re continuing to grow, but our success is dependent on the community’s support. Building a fan base and raising awareness of the sport is huge for the team’s long-term sustainability. It starts with inviting your friends to a game, getting season tickets, and just showing everyone what we’re about.”

Secure your tickets at portlandrising.me .

game dates

Portland Rising vs. NY Gridlock

• April 20th at Fitzpatrick Stadium (home)

Portland Rising @ Minnesota Strike

• April 27th (away)

Portland Rising vs. DC Shadow

• May 18th at Fitzpatrick Stadium (home)

Portland Rising @ Milwaukee Monarchs

• June 1st (away)

Portland Rising @ Indianapolis Red

• June 2nd (away)

Portland Rising vs. Philadelphia Surge

• June 8th at Fitzpatrick Stadium (home)

ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE BUSINESS OWNERS

WHO RUN THE WORLD?

SIX PORTLAND WOMEN REFLECT ON THE UNIQUE EXPERIENCE OF NAVIGATING THE WORLD AS FEMALE BUSINESS OWNERS

“The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another,” award-winning professional tennis player Serena Williams once said. We couldn’t agree more, which is why we’re highlighting some of the passionate, resilient, intelligent, business-savvy women paving the way in Portland. From custom jewelry to power tool workshops, fitness, aquaculture, dentistry, and the city’s only coworking space for anyone who has felt unwelcome in a work environment, these leading ladies prove women really can do it all.

Owning a business is never easy, but my “why” is simple: making a positive difference in people’s lives makes the hard so worth it.

Julie Marchese, CycleBar Portland

WHAT IS IT LIKE TO CO-OWN CYCLEBAR PORTLAND WITH YOUR DAUGHTER?

It’s been a joy to see my daughter grow into the woman she is today. Each challenge and success we share together is a wonderful experience. We’ve navigated through many firsts, learned a lot, and grown even more. Nothing in life is easy, but not many people get to open and sustain a business with their daughter—it’s so special. Plus, we get to make people feel good! It’s very rewarding to see the CycleBar community that we’ve created flourish. It may be a bike that goes nowhere, but it takes you many places.

WHY IS HELPING WOMEN GET ACTIVE IMPORTANT TO YOU?

My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1999, I was diagnosed in 2004, and I lost my mom to lung cancer in 2014. There are far too many women that hear the words “You have cancer.” Taking care of your body is the best way to fight this disease, so getting women active is the only way I know how to help. You have one body—nourishing it and taking care of it is the best medicine out there. Of course, many men are helped by these endeavors, too. When the woman becomes active, the rest of the family follows!

Janice Sears, Chart Metalworks

WHAT’S UNIQUE ABOUT LEADING A WOMAN-OWNED BUSINESS IN MAINE?

Maine is an amazing state filled with pride and wonderful people. The enthusiasm, love, and support I experience every day—from customers, friends, my employees, and other businesses—is bountiful. I always wake up with a smile on my face.

WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR WORK?

When our customers absolutely love their pieces and share with us how meaningful it is for them or for their recipient. We don’t mind taking the time to make sure every piece is perfect by working with each customer to design their unique graphic.

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION?

What moves me is experiencing a beautiful place I have yet to discover. Nothing inspires me more than the days I take to explore up and down the coast.

Dr. Heather Keeling, The Dental Loft

THE DENTAL LOFT TEAM CONSISTS OF ONLY WOMEN. WAS THIS INTENTIONAL?

I wanted to surround myself with a team that is as passionate about preventative medicine as I am. I’m lucky to have a team of like-minded individuals—and they all happen to be amazing women.

IF YOU COULD SPEAK WITH YOUR YOUNGER SELF, WHAT’S ONE THING YOU WOULD TELL HER?

One of my yoga instructors once said “Wherever you are, be there,” and I wish I had heard these words years ago. The best part of my day is when a new patient comes in and says, “This is the first time a dentist has been so thorough,” or “Thanks for spending so much time with me.” My response is simple: the only place I have to be is right here, and you have my undivided attention.

I’m proud of them for stepping out of their comfort zone, but I’m also proud of myself for having created a space for them to do so.

Sandrine Moser, Studio Artisane

HOW DO YOU HELP WOMEN OVERCOME THE STEREOTYPE THAT WOODWORKING IS FOR MEN?

In my experience, woodworking isn’t typically taught to women, but I wanted to reach out to them, and I found the best way to do that was not to advertise a gigantic bookshelf or a full kitchen renovation but small interior decor pieces like frames or side tables. Starting small is so important, and planting the seed allows for the interest to grow until the women I teach feel confident with their tools and are able to build a bed or redo a whole bathroom.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT TEACHING OTHER WOMEN HOW TO USE POWER TOOLS?

It sounds cliché, but it’s really seeing women smile at the end. I have seen so many women in genuine disbelief with the work they’ve created, and nothing makes me more proud. I’m proud of them for stepping out of their comfort zone and coming to Studio Artisane to create, but also I’m proud of myself for having created a space for them to do so. Women are incredible people who are often overlooked, and I have made it my mission to create a safe, accessible space for them to use their creativity and their muscles to craft a piece of furniture.

I wanted to witness women calling the shots, sharing the leads, and not having to compete with the boys’ club to get opportunities.

Heather Ashby,  coworkHERS

HOW DID YOU DEVELOP THE CONCEPT BEHIND COWORKHERS?

When thinking about opening a coworking space, I knew having a niche would set me apart. I imagined a place where women dominated the space—I wanted to witness women calling the shots, sharing the leads, and not having to compete with the boys’ club to get opportunities. My feelings were solidified when researching and touring coworking spaces in Portland and Boston: the constant scene was men connecting, drinking pints, playing foosball. The few women I saw stood out because they had their heads down and looked uncomfortable. I thought about how these men weren’t even recognizing that the women were the hardest working people in the room. It was not the environment I could see myself working in, nor what I wanted other women to experience.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG WOMEN LOOKING TO BECOME ENTREPRENEURS?

Your passion must be palpable and contagious when discussing your idea. If you don’t feel that magical, doubtless feeling in your gut, you need to rethink. Document your emotions, motivations, and your “why” for embarking on this journey, and regularly revisit these during moments of uncertainty. Also, you may feel compelled to say “yes” to everything, but think about self-care before committing to too much.

It’s really unique to be a part of such a vibrant group of likeminded entrepreneurs going through similar challenges—I feel genuinely supported, both personally and professionally.

Libby Davis, Lady Shuckers

TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR MISSION TO SUPPORT WOMEN IN AQUACULTURE AND AMPLIFY UNDERREPRESENTED VOICES IN THE INDUSTRY.

The idea for Lady Shuckers mobile raw bar and event company started when I was shucking in a local raw-bar that featured all Maine-grown oysters and fell in love with their sustainability story. I forged many friendships with female farmers and other women in the industry during that time and wanted to create a business where I could support their efforts and share their stories with others. Our mission to source from women-owned farms stems from wanting to create more representation and visibility for women, and other traditionally marginalized communities, in an industry that is largely male dominated. Through buying and marketing women-owned products, we are able to build community and reach wider audiences about the positive impacts of sustainable aquaculture.

WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT THE COMMUNITY OF WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES IN MAINE?

It’s really unique to be a part of such a vibrant group of like-minded entrepreneurs going through similar challenges where you feel genuinely supported, both personally and professionally. I feel really lucky that I get to access the best of many different networks.

100 Women Who Care

DEB BERGERON, FOUNDER OF THE GROUP’S SOUTHERN MAINE CHAPTER, ON WOMEN-LED PHILANTHROPY

Deb Bergeron, founder of 100 Women Who Care Southern Maine

ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEN DERASPE / FOLLOW JOY PHOTOGRAPHY

WHAT’S THE ORIGIN OF 100 WOMEN WHO CARE?

100 Women Who Care was started in November 2006 by Karen Dunigan of Jackson, Michigan as a simple way to raise money efficiently and quickly for local charities. At their first meeting, the group of over 100 women each wrote a check for $100 directly to The Center for Family Health, their chosen local charity. In total, the women raised $12,800 to buy 300 new baby cribs.

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO LAUNCH A CHAPTER IN SOUTHERN MAINE?

100 Women Who Care was the answer to my key personal and professional goals. As a busy life coach, I was looking for active, ongoing ways to express my gratitude and to give back to the community I grew up in. Initially, I was inspired by the simplicity and elegance of the concept. Knowing how difficult it is for local nonprofits to raise the funds required to carry on their work—and how easily even the best volunteer's intentions can be thwarted by today's busy schedules—100 Women Who Care seemed to be the perfect solution.

I wanted to make it easier for local women with little time for volunteering to get involved in philanthropy that made a difference, to give them the opportunity to write a check and be part of a significant gift to the community. As an individual, it’s difficult to make a large impact, but individuals working together can harness a collective power to contribute in ways that are meaningful and lasting.

Almost 10 years ago, 65 women said “Yes” to 100 Women Who Care Southern Maine and we took off running! The response from women in the area has been tremendous, and today we are 395 women strong from 49 local cities and towns.

HOW DOES THE GROUP WORK?

Our work thrives on the idea that together, we can do more, turning individual acts of kindness into collective action that strengthens our community and makes our world a better place for all.

Four times each year, members of 100 Women Who Care Southern Maine gather together. We spend time socializing and networking before getting down to business: choosing a local organization to receive our collective donation. At each meeting, we draw the names of three nonprofits nominated by our members and hear short, heartfelt presentations from each of the organizations about why they should receive our donation. After each presentation, our members ask questions for five minutes, and then we vote by secret ballot. Each member writes a check for $50 to the charity that receives the most votes.

Leveraging the power of collective gifts allows our donations to create meaningful impact and improve lives. By pooling our financial resources together, we’ve awarded $566,000 to advance the work of 39 nonprofits in southern Maine. These nonprofits run the full spectrum of helping Mainers, including veterans, immigrant families, children with disabilities, survivors of human trafficking, terminally ill young adults, incarcerated youth, pregnant women, fishermen, victims of domestic abuse, and more.

WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF KEEPING 100% OF CONTRIBUTIONS IN THE COMMUNITY?

One of the appeals of the 100 Women Who Care Southern Maine is that all of the money donated stays local and members can see the direct impact they are making. Members have even become personally involved with these organizations as volunteers and board members. It’s incredibly gratifying to see the ripple effect generated by uniting a large group of women working collaboratively toward a common philanthropic effort.

“As an individual, it can be difficult to make a large impact, but individuals working together can harness a collective power to contribute in ways that are meaningful and lasting.”

“Our work thrives on the idea that together, we can do more, turning individual acts of kindness into collective action that strengthens our community and makes our world a better place for all.”

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A FEMALE-ONLY DELEGATION?

Women philanthropists are change-makers and community-shapers. As a community, we are vibrant. We come from cities and towns throughout southern Maine and represent a wide range of perspectives, talents, and experiences. What unites us is that we share deep concern about what’s happening at the local level and want to be part of addressing what has to change. Our community is our super power—we bring so much to the table, from our talents to our passion to our energy. We are women with a purpose!

To get involved, visit  100womenwhocaresouthernmaine.com or contact founder Deb Bergeron at 207-232-0048 or deb100women@gmail.com.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 3RD

2024 MECA&D Fashion Show

Institute of Contemporary Art | 7:30 AM

The annual Maine College of Art & Design Fashion Show will feature collections from Textile & Fashion Design majors and wearable art from BFA and MFA students. Outside of the fashion show, the Thesis Exhibition of work by graduating seniors from all MECA&D programs will be on view and open to the public.  tinyurl.com/mecad-fashion-show

MAY 10TH

Flying Colors Benefit Art Auction

The Children's Museum and Theatre of Maine | 7:00 PM

CMTM’s Flying Colors Benefit Art Auction is the art experience of the season. Explore three floors of exhibits, indulge in delightful bites courtesy of Big Tree Catering, sip colorful concoctions courtesy of Thompson’s Point, and bid on over 100 works of art. This 21+ event promises a night of joy and inspiration benefitting CMTM's Community Fund. kitetails.org/flyingcolors

MAY 12TH

CiderFeast Portland

Oxbow Blending and Bottling | 12:00 PM

This is your chance to try all the best ciders in the region at once, with sample pours from Absolem Cider Company, Rocky Ground Cider, Aprés, Freedom’s Edge Cider, and more. Food will be available for purchase, including frites from Duckfat. Head over to Anoche afterward for the informal afterparty to round out this especially refreshing Mother’s Day.  ciderfeasthq. com/ciderfeast-portland-2024

events

Chablis Tasting

Bow Street Beverage | 6:00 PM

Indulge in the crisp and refreshing flavors of Chablis wines while mingling with fellow wine enthusiasts. Hear from Bow Street Beverage's experts on what makes a great Chablis and savor some of the finest in a charming setting on Forest Ave. tinyurl.com/bsb-chablis

Women Standing Together Leadership Intensive

Abromson Community Center at USM | 9:00 AM

Participate in workshops and networking specially designed to enhance your leadership skills and walk away with actionable tips to be a stronger leader, maximize your impact, and drive business growth. Attendees will be matched with a senior woman in business in a small group setting to allow for candid conversations about career development, business development, and professional growth.  tinyurl.com/women-standing-together

2nd Annual Premier Collector Car Indoor Auction

Throttle Car Club

Looking to buy or sell a collectible vehicle or motorcycle? Head to Throttle Car Club's Second Annual Indoor Auction event to check out more than 75 classic, specialty, and luxury vehicles with both in-person and online bidding available. Proceeds benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Maine. throttlecarclub.com/throttle-auction

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Here at Health Resonates, we provide relaxing and effective massage, skincare, energy therapy, and wellness services to help you live your best, blissed-out life!

Owners Anna & Tara would like to offer you 10% off whenever you try a new Health Resonates provider from whom you haven’t yet received a service. This