A Message from Our Executive Director
After seven incredible years with New Hope Midcoast, I will be stepping down from my role as Executive Director as of December 10. It has been the honor of my career to work alongside such a dedicated and mission-driven staff and board. Together, we navigated intense moments of change and growth, including the early days of the pandemic, when we rapidly transitioned from in-person to virtual services while maintaining our 24/7 helpline and essential support. Even in the most uncertain times, our team continued to show up for survivors of domestic abuse with compassion, creativity, and unwavering commitment.
Over these seven years, we have achieved a great deal as a Regional DomesticViolence Resource Center serving Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Knox and Waldo counties. We completed a significant rebranding process, transitioning from New Hope for Women to New Hope Midcoast – a name that more fully reflects our inclusivity and our service to all survivors of domestic abuse, dating violence and stalking. We expanded our Residential Services Program from six units of supportive housing to more than twenty eight, sustaining this growth through grant funding and strong partnerships. We have also strengthened our collaborative efforts with local law enforcement, the district attorney’s office, victim witness advocates, and many community partners, and created our new Law Enforcement Advocacy Program. At the same time, we made meaningful progress on our three-year strategic plan, now completing our second year of intentional organizational growth and development.
Our outreach and community engagement efforts have also expanded significantly. We debuted a short film that amplifies the stories of our work as a Regional Domestic Violence Resource Center, launched an annual speaker series focused on timely and relevant issues facing our communities, and increased awareness across the Midcoast through training, events, and partnerships. This year, we were deeply honored to be named Healthcare Partner of the Year by MaineHealth Waldo Hospital at the annual Belfast Area Chamber of Commerce Gala — an award that speaks to the dedication of every staff member and the strength of our collaborative relationships across the region. These accomplishments represent just a portion of what we have achieved together. I am profoundly proud to have been part of this remarkable agency and community.
New Hope Midcoast is in exceptionally capable hands, led by a compassionate, skilled, and visionary team that brings integrity and heart to their work every day. Next steps and transition updates will be announced soon, and I have no doubt that the organization will continue to thrive and innovate in service of survivors of domestic abuse and families throughout the Midcoast. As I prepare for my transition to an Executive Director role at a nationally accredited children’s advocacy center in Raleigh, N.C., I am filled with gratitude and confidence. Thank you for the profound privilege of serving this community and for the trust you have placed in me throughout my time here.
With gratitude,
Rebekah