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Community Connector Spotlight:
The Community Connector Pilot is part of the Community Connections project, a signature initiative of the Governor's Cabinet on Aging, partnering with the University of Maine Center on Aging, Lifelong Maine's Age-Friendly Communities, and Maine's Area Agencies on Aging.
The goal of the Community Connector Pilots is to expand resource connections and increase the capacity of age-friendly communities to connect residents to the services and programs they need to thrive. Each of the 12 pilot projects built on the strengths and needs in their community so each is a little different.
Each month, the Lifelong Maine news will highlight one of the 14 Community Connectors working in the 12 Community Connector pilot sites. To learn more about all of the pilots, visit Community Connector Pilot Sites. This month, we shine a light on Cindy Slocum and Lori Fowler, Community Connectors in Gray/New Gloucester.
Community Connectors, Lori Fowler and Cindy Slocum with an MSP application
In the towns of Gray and New Gloucester, a small team is making a big impact—one conversation, one connection, and one cup of coffee at a time. Through the Community Connections Pilot Project, 65 residents have enrolled in the Medicare Savings Program, collectively saving an estimated $144,300 in annual healthcare costs. That figure is compelling on its own—but it’s just one part of a broader story about community-driven support for older adults and neighbors in need.
In the towns of Gray and New Gloucester, a small team is making a big impact—one conversation, one connection, and one cup of coffee at a time. Through the Community Connections Pilot Project, 65 residents have enrolled in the Medicare Savings Program, collectively saving an estimated $144,300 in annual healthcare costs. That figure is compelling on its own—but it’s just one part of a broader story about community-driven support for older adults and neighbors in need.
A Community-Based Approach
A Community-Based Approach
Led by Building Livability in New Gloucester in collaboration with the Town of Gray, the pilot was launched in response to a growing need: as the population ages, more residents are seeking ways to stay informed, connected, and independent.
From the start, the goals were clear:
Enhance quality of life for older adults and those in need
Connect residents with local services and resources
Promote social connection and self-sufficiency
At the heart of the work is a dedicated local team: Cindy Slocum and Lori Fowler, the project’s Community Connectors, and Julie Fralich, serving as Site Supervisor. Their deep community ties allowed the project to gain traction quickly.
Connection Over Coffee
Connection Over Coffee
One of the pilot’s most effective—and beloved—strategies has been weekly gatherings over coffee and tea. Designed as accessible, informal social events, these meetings offered a relaxed space for residents to connect with neighbors and talk with Cindy and Lori about everything from healthcare options to volunteer rides.
While one-on-one sessions at local libraries were also offered, the casual coffee gatherings often saw greater participation and more candid conversations. “I don’t think we appreciated at the beginning of the year how important socialization is for those who live alone or who may not otherwise be involved in the community,” says Lori Fowler. “Loneliness and isolation are really important health issues, and the teas and coffees were welcoming, easy to organize, and a very welcome recreational activity for many.”
The setting helped overcome hesitancy around asking for help and served as an easy access point to services like the Medicare Savings Program.
The impact of the program, which helps older Mainers pay their monthly Medicare Part B premiums and other out of pocket costs, has been significant. “One person reported back that she had been paying over $2,000 quarterly for out-of-pocket drug costs, and those costs were reduced to $17 a quarter,” Cindy explains. “Others shared that this savings, although modest, helped them pay their light bills, food, and taxes. Many had just ‘a little bit more’ to buy food and medicine. Things are a lot less tight in their life. It helps people to get by just a little bit better.”
Strategic Outreach and Partnerships
Strategic Outreach and Partnerships
The team used strategic outreach and strong partnerships to reach those most in need. Knowing not all residents access digital information, they sent a postcard mailer to every household in Gray and New Gloucester. Months later, people continued showing up with the mailer in hand, seeking information or assistance. They also utilized NGXchange, an online news outlet, and Country Connections, the area’s only mailed newspaper.
An Estate Planning Educational Program
Collaboration Into the Future
Collaboration Into the Future
Key partners—like local libraries, Parks and Recreation departments, and churches—helped spread the word and co-host events. Others brought specific expertise:
Southern Maine Area Agency on Aging led sessions on Medicare options and home care
Alpha One presented on Disability and Aging Solutions
Maine State Housing shared information on the Nesterly Home Share Program
AARP offered a session on internet scams and fraud prevention
These partnerships expanded the program’s reach and helped align services and avoid duplication, making the most of available resources.
Ahead, the team plans to deepen partnerships, expand NG Rides (a local transportation initiative), and explore new projects like Window Dressers and a Handy Helper program. Printed mailers and face-to-face outreach will remain central tools for engaging the community.
Ahead, the team plans to deepen partnerships, expand NG Rides (a local transportation initiative), and explore new projects like Window Dressers and a Handy Helper program. Printed mailers and face-to-face outreach will remain central tools for engaging the community.
The Gray/New Gloucester Community Connections Pilot proves that meaningful change begins with consistent, compassionate efforts rooted in trust, collaboration, and human connection.
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