Diane Laurendeau, recently retired CFO, Claudette Dupee, past board president, and Geoff Green, past executive director of YCCAC
Photo: Michelle McCarthy
By Connie Garber and Barb Crider
York County Community Action Corp. (YCCAC) celebrated its 60th anniversary at an event held Jan. 28, hosted by Kennebunk Savings Bank. The event included the YCCAC Board of Directors, staff, current and past, along with partner organizations. A recurring theme throughout the evening’s presentations – how YCCAC’s approach to creating opportunities for York County’s low-income residents – was amplified by the many people and organizations it partners with.
Carter Friend, YCCAC chief executive officer, spoke about the first office that opened in January 1965, and the first program, outreach to get people signed up for a brand new program called Medicare.
“If the last 60 years have taught us anything,” he said, “it’s that when we work together, hope and vision move from an idea to a plan – and from a plan to a result.”
Lex Meagher, CEO of Kennebunk Savings Bank and a member of YCCAC’s Board, talked about the importance of working with other agencies. “Partnerships inspire our staff, reminding us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves,” he said.
Maine’s Congressional delegation sent their congratulations as well, with Sen. Angus King’s letter stating: “Across Maine, Community Action agencies play a critical role in helping individuals and families build stability and resilience. Your organization has long exemplified that mission through thoughtful collaboration and deep understanding of local needs.” Sen. Susan Collins’ letter echoed those thoughts, and Rep. Chellie Pingree’s letter summed it up: “In a state where community and self-reliance go hand in hand, YCCAC embodies the very best of Maine’s values … offering practical assistance with an emphasis on dignity and respect.”
YCCAC was created because of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, which launched then-President Johnson’s War on Poverty. The aim of the act was to bring hope and opportunities to all Americans, primarily through education, training and skill development. The act sought to “eliminate the paradox of poverty in the midst of plenty.” YCCAC is one of more than 900 community action agencies in the country, all of which are governed by local boards of directors and are charged with delivering services specifically designed to meet local needs.
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