8 September 2026

PRESENT: Janet May, Kelsey Preecs

STAFF: Maureen Kendzierski

Meeting started 12:06

Key Outcomes

The team coordinated upcoming events for the Maine Service Fellows (MSF), including a retreat in Van Buren and upcoming site host applications. Additionally, the Conserve Maine mini-grant recipients were finalized, and updates were provided on AmeriCorps site visits and the upcoming Commission retreat.

Progress & Status

Maine Service Fellows (MSF)

  • Retreat: Scheduled from tomorrow through Friday in Van Buren, featuring fellow presentations.
  • Applications: Site host applications open this week, with a larger promotional push planned for the following weeks.
  • Review Committee: Maureen will reach out to form a review application committee by the end of November.
  • Service Enterprise: Info sessions are planned for October or November, with a potential cohort starting in January.

Grants and Networks

  • Conserve Maine Mini-Grants: Recipients finalized include Main Street Skowhegan, Center for an Ecology-Based Economy, Greater Louisville Land Trust, and the Appalachian Mountain Trail Club.
  • Grant Focus: Projects center on trail maintenance, accessible trails, and energy navigators/cafes.
  • Volunteer Managers Network: Currently consists of 169 members across the state with a monthly newsletter.
  • VGF Grant: A broad survey will be shared to gather input for the RFP and program statement.

AmeriCorps and Commission

  • Site Visits: Consultant Carrie completed site visits last week to align on contracts and expectations.
  • Funding Strategy: Some programs are considering competitive grants instead of formula funding to potentially free up resources for new programs.
  • Commission Retreat: Scheduled for the end of September to review the state service strategy.

Upcoming Events

  • September 21: Liliana is organizing a meeting for the HR1 community.
  • September 17: Task force meeting to distill listening session data for the retreat.
  • September 22: Commission retreat.
  • Friday (9/11 Day of Service): Coastal cleanup with Maine Coastal Programs and MSF volunteer opportunities.

Action Items

  • Maureen: Reach out to establish the review application committee by late November.
  • Team: Amplify partner volunteer opportunities on social media for the 9/11 Day of Service.

Meeting ended at: 12:32