Community Connector Spotlight:
Age Friendly Bowdoinham
Sally Cluchey

Maureen Booth, Age-Friendly Bowdoinham Advisory Committee Co-Chair, explains, “The announcement of the Community Connector pilot came at an ideal time. Residents using our rides program, food pantry, and general assistance often had needs beyond what any single service could address. The pilot gives us the resources, guidance, and support to provide critical one-on-one assistance to at-risk and isolated residents facing complex challenges.”

Building a New Program

Sally Cluchey, a longtime resident and local State Representative, joined as Community Connector in September to establish a new support system. “Our goal is to connect people with trained volunteers who can guide them to community and state resources, whether for health coverage, food insecurity, housing, transportation, finances, or caregiver support,” she says.

Working with Maureen and Jason Lamoreau, Age-Friendly Bowdoinham’s Coordinator, Sally has recruited 11 volunteers—nine providing direct support, while others assist with events and outreach. In January, the team launched weekly Drop-In hours at the Fire Station, offering 1:1 assistance and volunteer opportunities.

Key Strategies for Success

• • Engaging Skilled Volunteers: BCC has attracted volunteers with backgrounds in nursing, occupational therapy, counseling, and accounting. The one-on-one model allows them to form meaningful connections and directly impact lives.

  • Effective Community Communication: Spreading the word has been vital. BCC supported the relaunch of Bowdoinhammer, a community newsletter that provides weekly updates on social activities and community resources. Sally has also leveraged Facebook and local events to share information.

  • Collaborating with State & Local Partners: BCC works closely with the Governor’s Cabinet on Aging, UMaine Center on Aging, and local service providers to enhance support. Partnerships with organizations like Rides in Neighbors Cars, Bowdoinham’s Handy Brigade, Bowdoinham Food Pantry, Legal Services for Maine Elders, Pine Tree Legal, Spectrum Generations, People Plus, and Midcoast CA$H Maine have improved coordination and accessibility.

Strengthening Community Ties

A key success of BCC has been the relationships formed—between volunteers and participants, among community organizations, and throughout Bowdoinham. Residents now receive help with transportation, food access, and emotional support, reinforcing the program's impact.

Sally shares, “One of the most rewarding aspects has been watching participants open up as trust builds, sharing concerns they may not have initially voiced. Many have significantly increased their engagement with the outside world.”

Beyond connecting people to resources, the BCC team ensures individuals are matched with services that can genuinely assist them. The program has also highlighted systemic challenges within state programs, which Sally has brought to the attention of state officials for potential reform.

Looking Ahead

With a strong volunteer base, the next step is expanding outreach to reach more residents. BCC aims to enhance visibility, strengthen partnerships, and secure long-term funding. A key priority is emphasizing that the program serves all economic backgrounds—because aging presents challenges for everyone. Ultimately, the goal is to make Bowdoinham a place where all residents, regardless of age or circumstance, feel supported and connected.