2025 Jam for Mental Health Raises Over $17,700

Sweetser recently hosted its 6th annual Jam for Mental Health at the Elks Lodge in Sanford. The event boasted its largest turnout yet and raised over $17,700 for mental health services in York County.

Participants enjoyed live music from local bands, a 50/50 raffle, dancing, T-shirt sales, and light refreshments. Several guest speakers opened up about their own experiences with mental health challenges, sharing stories about their journey to accessing treatment and support.

WMTW TV Segment: Recovery Coaches

Sweetser’s Director of Recovery Services Alaina Knox appeared on WMTW’s Mental Health Moment segment to discuss how Sweetser’s recovery coaches help Mainers create their own self-determined pathway of recovery. Sweetser currently has six Recovery Coaches that deliver services across Franklin, York, Kennebec, and Oxford counties, supporting Mainers with substance use disorders where they are at, connecting the recovering person with community resources and harm reduction strategies.

Sanford Masonic Lodge Supports Sweetser Mental Health Services

Sanford Masonic Lodge members and Sweetser employees hold oversized check during presentation.

Members of the Sanford Masonic Lodge, Preble Lodge #143 presented Sweetser with a check for $3,000 to support mental health services in the Sanford/Springvale communities. The group raised funds with a hugely successful bowling tournament. The lodge is an extremely philanthropic organization, raising a great deal of money for local charities.

Sweetser Presents to Brunswick Rotarians

Jayne Van Bramer addresses Brunswick Rotarians

Sweetser’s President & CEO Jayne Van Bramer recently spoke to the Brunswick Rotary Club, informing Rotarians about the 476 Brunswick residents that benefited from our services in 2024 and highlighted some of the important new programs we’ve launched this past year. She also discussed our Brunswick Hope & Healing Center, reminding Rotarians that Brunswick residents and Cumberland County residents have walk-in access to the clinic Monday-Friday, 10 AM-3 PM.

WMTW TV Segment: Using AI to Support Clinical Success

Sweetser’s President & CEO Jayne Van Bramer announced on WMTW Channel 8 that Sweetser is the first behavioral health organization in Maine to adopt AI as a tool for clinical success. We partnered with a company called Eleos to implement a tool that:

  • Fosters active listening to take notes throughout the session
  • Ensures clinical accuracy & relevance
  • Helps identify discussion themes

WMTW TV Segment: Sweetser Program Openings

In the latest Mental Health Moment segment on WMTW, Sweetser’s Chief Financial Officer John McAnuff discusses the programs that have immediate openings. These include our special purpose K-12 school, crisis residential units, eating disorders program, and home-based services like targeted case management.

WMTW TV Segment: How exercise can improve your mental health

In the latest Mental Health Moment, Sweetser Senior Director of PR & Advancement Justin Chenette talks with WMTW’s Jacob Murphy about how physical activity has been shown to have a positive impact on our mood. It can make us feel good. Even a short burst of movement can:

  • Release endorphins to relieve stress
  • Increase energy
  • Improve sleep, which helps manage mood
  • Create mental reset
  • Outlet for negative emotions
  • Improve self-esteem and mood
  • Give you a sense of achievement

 

2nd Annual Skate for Sweetser

Two people wearing ice skates, looking happy and standing on ice rink

Appreciate all the staff and community members who came to our 2nd annual Skate for Sweetser event. Thanks to our corporate sponsors Martin’s Point and Benchmark Construction and donations made at the door, we raised $3,300 for Sweetser. We appreciate the Family Ice Center in Falmouth for donating the ice time.

WMTW TV Segment: Ways to Combat the Winter Blues

Two in five Americans say their mood worsens in winter. Sweetser’s Medical Director Dr. Marc Kaplan appeared on WMTW’s Mental Health Moment segment to discuss ways to combat isolation during the winter months suggesting things like:

  • Start a new hobby or project to work on
  • Seek natural light like a short walk outdoors
  • Maintain a regular sleep schedule
  • Engage in physical activity
  • Practice meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises