The Kennebunk Savings’ Spotlight Fund is making a $150,000 donation to First County Foundation and their new Recovery Center currently under construction in Alfred, ME. The center is the first of its kind in Maine and will serve as an innovative regional hub for comprehensive recovery services, with 58 beds for adult men and women in York County struggling with substance use disorder. With a focus on trauma-informed care, the center will foster holistic healing through personalized treatment plans and ongoing aftercare support.
“The planned care at this facility is truly comprehensive,” said Liz Torrance, Social Responsibility Director at Kennebunk Savings. “They are equipped for short-term detox as well as extended stays. They will offer yoga, art therapy, group counseling, and peer support. And when treatment is complete, the facility will support housing, financial management, and job training to support sustainable recovery. This is huge for Maine and we’re very proud to be supporting it.”
The grant comes as the Bank celebrates the 10th year of their Spotlight Fund. Created in 2016 to shine a light on critical issues affecting our community, the Spotlight Fund dedicates a portion of Kennebunk Savings’ earnings to proactively support organizations and programs working to alleviate key community issues. The Spotlight Fund focuses efforts on early childhood education, substance use disorder prevention and recovery, and addressing food insecurity. The Fund has donated more than $1,000,000 to over 50 unique local organizations.
“It is part of our role and responsibility as a true community bank to support a wide array of local nonprofits, events and initiatives,” Torrance said. “Everything from land trusts to libraries to little leagues. But we know we can do more and go further with our giving. For ten years now, we’ve actively worked to identify and seek out ways in which our support can create lasting, positive change in our communities.”
Advocacy and support from Kennebunk Savings for the recovery community has been particularly notable. In addition to proactive giving, the Bank convened advocates and business leaders for a summit in 2019. They became a certified Recovery Friendly Workplace in NH, and then worked with the State of Maine to support the creation of a similar initiative. They utilize their social media reach to spread awareness and reduce stigma, and have marshalled their branch network to distribute free Deterra bags, helping to safely dispose of unused medication. They’ve presented frequently at conferences for socially responsible businesses, HR professionals, and recovery advocates to inspire others to act. This has led to several accolades including the 2025 Cornerstone Award from NH Businesses for Social Responsibility. Now-retired President & CEO Bradford C. Paige was also awarded the Lighting the Way Award from Hope on Haven Hill in 2024.
