PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The County Federal Credit Union is proud to announce the awarding of a Community Mini-Grant to The Well of Mars Hill, in support of the organization’s innovative efforts to empower local youth, strengthen families and serve the broader community.
In celebration of its 70th anniversary, The County launched a Community Mini-Grant initiative to provide financial support to nonprofit organizations leading impactful projects across the region.
“The Well of Mars Hill serves as a safe haven for teenagers by providing food, shelter, warmth, encouragement, and support,” Ashlee Scully said. “Through educational assistance, job training, community service opportunities and meaningful mentorship, The Well helps young people discover their purpose, build practical life skills and create a vision for a brighter future.”
Funding from The County will help support two important initiatives currently being developed by The Well: a youth workforce development program and a community food pantry. The new workforce development program will provide local teenagers with paid employment opportunities through The Well’s café operations. Participating youth will gain hands-on experience in customer service, cash handling, food preparation, kitchen operations, cleanliness standards and teamwork while learning how to navigate real-world workplace responsibilities in a supportive environment.
“This program gives teens an opportunity to develop confidence, gain valuable job skills, and build experience that will serve them throughout their lives,” Dan Bagley, executive vice president, said. “At the same time, it creates meaningful connections between young people and the broader community.”
Revenue generated through café and order window operations will help fund The Well’s mission to provide free services and resources to area youth while also supporting the organization’s growing food pantry initiative.
The food pantry will serve teens, their families, and residents in neighborhoods connected to The Well’s outreach efforts. Through weekly “GO Team” visits to local apartment communities, youth volunteers identify needs, provide support and connect residents with available resources.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of our work is seeing young people become leaders who are helping others,” Scully said. “Our goal is to be more than a café or gathering place. We want to be a catalyst for positive change throughout our community.”
The County’s Community Mini-Grant Program supports nonprofit organizations and community initiatives that improve quality of life and create lasting impact throughout the region.
“The Well of Mars Hill is making a meaningful difference in the lives of local youth and families,” Bagley said. “We are honored to support programs that foster personal growth, workforce readiness, community service and food security. Their work exemplifies the spirit of community partnership that our Mini-Grant Program is designed to encourage.”
As a member-owned financial cooperative, The County FCU is committed to community engagement and local investment. The credit union regularly provides financial support and volunteer service to charities, youth programs and community initiatives that improve the quality of life across the region.
The County FCU is a member-owned financial cooperative dedicated to improving the financial lives of individuals, families, and businesses throughout Maine. Through personalized service, innovative financial solutions, and strong community partnerships, the credit union remains committed to helping members achieve their financial goals. The County Federal Credit Union has branch locations in Caribou, Presque Isle, Fort Fairfield, Mars Hill, Houlton, Howland, Old Town and Bangor.
