We meet Tim Nickles (and Halligan), and learn about his therapy dog organization. Tim discusses his inspiration for starting Embers Paws of Hope, the unique challenges those in the military and first responder community face, and a number of education events where people can meet therapy dog Halligan and learn more about therapy dogs.

We visit with Jesse Fowler, founder of Scarborough Buy Local. We discuss the organization's history, role in supporting local business, and the various neighborhoods that make Scarborough unique.

Host Stella Mars speaks with Dan Coyne, Chief Impact and Governance Officer for United Way of Southern Maine. Dan shares the many ways that the United Way of Southern Maine has a positive impact on the communities in Cumberland and York counties.

The United Way has a program where they have volunteers do income taxes for people making less than $67,000 annually.

Dan also explains ALICE: Every day, 38% of households in Southern Maine make tough choices such as deciding between quality child care and paying the rent. This includes the 8% of households living below the federal poverty level and another 30% known as ALICE – Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. 

To learn more about the good things that the United Way of Southern Maine is doing and to make a donation, please visit uwsme.org.

Host Stella Mars speaks with Jean Saunders, Executive Director of Age Friendly Saco, a nonprofit with a mission to help those 55+. Jean discusses programs and offerings including rides to medical appointments and much more. Learn more, volunteer, or donate at AgeFriendlySaco.org.

Host Stella Mars speaks with Becca Gildred, Executive Director of United Midcoast Charities. Becca shares how the organization works with other non-profits "to raise all the boats in the harbor". 

Becca talks about the many programs and offerings that United Midcoast Charities delivers and shares exciting news about a volunteer fair at the Flanagan Center in Rockland on Tuesday, March 11th, from 4-7 PM.

To learn more, donate, or volunteer, visit UnitedMidcoastCharities.org.

Host Stella Mars speaks with Rick Wilson, an Extended Learning Opportunity (ELO) specialist for the Maine Department of Education. Rick is also the ELO Coordinator for Brunswick Schools.

Rick shares the different types of experiential learning opportunities that exist today for youth outside of the classroom. He discusses many partnerships and shares that these opportunities are avialable for credit and in some cases, are even paid jobs.

Host Stella Mars speaks with Sophie Piconi, Executive Director of American Red Cross Central and Midcoast Maine. Sophie talks about the critical need for blood donations following winter storms. 

Additionally, Sophie discusses Red Cross Disaster Services and services that the Red Cross offers to veterans and personnel serving in the armed forces.

Learn more about the Red Cross programs and how to volunteer by visiting RedCross.org.

Heads Up: This show contains mature content.

Host Stella Mars speaks with Grace Kendall, Director of Development and Engagement at Safe Voices. Safe Voices is a resource center for survivors of sexual exploitation, sexual trafficking, and domestic violence. Their free, confidential, anonymous 24/7 helpline is 1-800-559-2927.

From SafeVoices.org: 

Safe Voices currently operates the only shelter and support services for victims of domestic violence and sex trafficking and exploitation in Androscoggin, Franklin, and Oxford counties. Our offices provide one-on-one safety planning, support groups, information and referral, court advocacy,transportation and accommodation for shelter, community education, and professional trainings.

Learn more about Safe Voices at SafeVoices.org.

Host Stella Mars speaks with Julie Pezzino, Executive Director of the Children's Museum and Theatre of Maine. Julie shares information about their programs and offerings at the facility at Thompson's Point. She discusses membership, theatrical productions, exhibits, and more! Learn more at kitetails.org.

Emily Elliot, Community Relations Manager with Living Innovations joins us. Living Innovations, based in Saco and with a presence in all regions of Maine, provides programs and assistance to better the lives of Mainers with intellectual and developmental disabilities. One of their flagship programs is the Shared Living program, which allows residents to live at home with qualified family members or caretakers. Living Innovations also has programs to benefit children, and job training as well. Find out more at livinginnovations.com