Stories of Hope: A Family’s Journey from Crisis to Healing

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

Hundreds of children in Maine are waiting for mental health care, but Sweetser’s amazing Child ACT team is stepping up. As the state’s only community-based youth ACT program, we provide 24/7 home and school support to keep kids out of the ER and on the path to recovery. The best news? New state funding is officially secured to launch a second team next year in an underserved part of the state! Sweetser hopes to be that provider to launch that second team.
After struggling with depression and repeated hospital visits, one teen found stability through 24/7 community-based support—now she’s back in school, thriving, and looking toward a healthier future. NEWS CENTER Maine’s Vivien Leigh tells her powerful story.
To learn more about the Child ACT program, click here.

TV Segment: The Challenges LGBTQ+ Youth Face Today

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

In recognition of Pride Month, Sweetser and WMTW are highlighting the serious mental health challenges impacting LGBTQ+ youth today. In this Mental Health Moment, Sweetser spokesperson Justin Chenette breaks down eye-opening new data, explores the impact of today’s social climate, and shares how acceptance can truly save lives. Plus, learn about vital resources like 988 and The Trevor Project—and why no one has to face this journey alone.

TV Segment: New Data Shows Drop in Youth Suicide Rates

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

New data shows youth suicide deaths dropped 11% nationwide after the launch of 988—but what’s really driving the progress? On this WMTW Mental Health Moment, Sweetser’s Kristie Worcester breaks down how the 988 Crisis Lifeline is helping—especially with text and chat support—while also highlighting the ongoing challenges facing Maine’s youth, from long waitlists to limited access to care. Encouraging signs, but the work isn’t done.

If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, please reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

PROPEL Volunteer Day on our Saco Campus

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

Recently, volunteers from PROPEL beautified Sweetser’s Saco Brick Building! The Brick Building located on our Saco Campus dates back to 1828. PROPEL is a group that unites Greater Portland’s young professionals, businesses, and community organizations.

We’re grateful to PROPEL for spending a day volunteering with us, and we appreciate their hard work.

If you or your team is interested in volunteering, you can click here for more information.

Dine to Donate with Portland Pie Company

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

Wednesday, June 24th
11:00am – 8:00pm
40 Main Street, Biddeford, ME

Join us at Portland Pie Company at their Biddeford location on Wednesday, June 24th for a delicious way to support Sweetser during their Dine to Donate event! 10% of all dine-in and takeout sales will benefit Sweetser — just mention Sweetser at checkout to make your meal count.

Bring your friends, grab a slice, and help make a difference in our community!

Sweetser/Jack Chevrolet Golf Classic

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

Monday, June 15th
7:30am – 3:30pm

Dunegrass Golf Club – Old Orchard Beach, ME

This year’s tournament will take place on Monday, June 15, 2026. Learn more or become a sponsor

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or would like more information about the Golf Classic, please contact Director of Development Jodie Hansen at 207.294.4476 or jhansen@sweetser.org.

We hope you’ll join us for an impactful day on the course! 

See Last Year’s Recap Below:

Chipping Fore a Cause: A Charity Golf Scramble

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

Saturday, June 13th
10:00am
Pine Hollow Par 3 – Sanford, ME

Join the Sanford Elks for a fun and meaningful day on the course to benefit mental health and recovery. Chipping Fore a Cause is a charity golf event at Pine Hollow Par 3 in Sanford, bringing the community together to support vital services. Proceeds benefit Sweetser, providing hope, healing, and critical care to children, adults, and families across Maine.

The day features complimentary beverage stations, a post-tournament awards ceremony and cookout, and automatic entry into hole-in-one and closest-to-the-pin contests. Players can also purchase 50/50 and raffle tickets, with team prizes for 1st and 2nd place.

Click here to learn more or to register.

View the 2025 Tournament Recap:

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Viewpoint Hotel’s Gala for Mental Health

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

Thursday, June 11th
5:00pm – 9:00pm

The Viewpoint Hotel – York, ME

You’re invited to the 2nd Annual Gala for Mental Health at The Viewpoint — supporting Sweetser.

This June, we’re gathering in the glow of Nubble Light’s very own beacon to raise the funds that make Sweetser’s work possible.

THE EVENING

  • Valet will be available for all guests
  • 5PM: Cocktail hour at the Stone Bar and Infinity Lawn with raw bar, a grazing board, and passed bites.
  • 6:30PM: Seated dinner under the sailcloth tent
  • 8PM: Dancing and dessert

$150 Per Ticket includes:

  • Live music
  • Cocktail hour bites
  • Family-style dinner
  • One glass of champagne
  • Gluten-free options
  • Valet service

Must be 21 or older. Tickets are non-refundable. Full bar will be card only.

Click here for tickets.

 

TV Segment: 988 & Beyond – Finding the Support You Need

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! In this WMTW segment, Sweetser’s Chief Communications Officer, Justin Chenette, breaks down the key mental health resources Mainers should know—from the 988 crisis line for immediate support to the Promise Line and free peer support options for ongoing help. Learn which number to call and how to get the support you need, when you need it most.

PromiseLine: 1-800-434-3000

Maine & National Crisis Line: 9-8-8

Peer Support Line: 1-866-771-9276