BANGOR, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) addressed attendees at the annual Blaine House Conference on Service and Volunteerism at the University of Maine to congratulate participants and celebrate their contributions to Maine. The event was sponsored by the Maine Commission for Community Service, and included members of AmeriCorps and Senior Corps.  

“Whether it’s providing healthcare to those who cannot afford coverage, ensuring our older citizens can thrive in place, or supporting our neighbors struggling with substance use disorders, our volunteers dedicate their time and skills to helping those in need,” said Senator King. “The volunteers I spoke with today use their efforts to build stronger communities and inspire others to do right by their neighbors. Each and every one of these volunteers makes our state a better place to live through their actions and their examples, and they deserve to be commended.”

During his time in the Senate, Senator King has sought to elevate the voices and support the efforts of Maine people who volunteer their time working to make Maine a better place. In September, Senator King visited the Good Shepherd Food Bank, where he met with staff members and volunteers to discuss the challenges facing Maine people who are struggling with the lack consistent access to heathy food due to lack of financial resources, often referred to as “food insecurity”. In May, he attended the Aroostook County Special Olympics where he spent time with members of Maine’s law enforcement community who volunteered to provide security at the event. While in the County, he also met with volunteers at the nearby Co-Op where he discussed the importance of volunteer efforts to further economic development in Aroostook County and throughout Maine. In July, Senator King visited Leavitt’s Mill Free Health Center in Bar Mills to meet with volunteers who provide free healthcare to Maine people who would otherwise be unable to receive care. Earlier this year, he joined with Senator Susan Collins to present a Senate-passed resolution honoring the Independent Transportation Network of America (ITN) after the organization provided its one millionth ride to older and visually impaired individuals. The organization, which was founded in Portland more than two decades ago, now operates nationwide and provides hundreds of rides every day.