ANDROSCOGGIN BANK TO RECEIVE “CHAMPIONS OF CHANGE AWARD” AT STAND AGAINST RACISM CONFERENCE APRIL 10TH IN LEWISTON
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 27, 2025
Stand Against Racism is a one-day, bi-annual conference, and a signature YWCA event designed to build community among those working for racial justice, raise awareness about the negative impact of institutional and structural racism in our communities, and provide strategies to root out injustice, transform institutions, and create a world that sees women, girls, and people of color the way we do: Equal. Powerful. Unstoppable.
This year’s theme for the conference and fundraiser is ““Reduce Conflict, Improve Culture: A Guide to Restorative Practices” and features Hilary North-Ellasante (they them), owner of Water’s Edge Consulting’s (www.changeatwatersedge.com) keynote, “Re-storying Our Pathways to Liberation.” By weaving together threads of storytelling and examples of liberatory praxis, Hilary will share learnings from their own journey towards freedom and invite attendees to explore for themselves how supporting anti-oppression can (and should) be a daily practice.
At each Stand Against Racism conference YWCA Central Maine presents the “Champions of Change” award to a business or organization in Maine, chosen by the YWCA and board members, that lead and support efforts that advance racial and gender equity in the workplace or community and has shown a distinct and continued effort to do their part in creating a more equitable Maine through efforts to educate and empower their staff, customers or constituents, and the greater community as a whole.
2025’s Champion of Change award will be presented to Androscoggin Bank. “Androscoggin Bank’s accomplishments and long-term commitment to equity within their workplace, within their industry, and within the greater community makes them a champion for equity and social justice and we are pleased to honor them with this year’s YWCA Champion of Change Award” YWCA Central Maine CEO, Melanie LaMore
“We are deeply honored to be recognized as a “Champion of Change” by the YWCA of Central Maine given the leadership and impact they demonstrate every day. At Androscoggin Bank, we understand that we prosper when our community prospers.” Said Neil Kiely, CEO. “Since our founding in 1870, we have helped generations of “New Mainers” establish a life and livelihood in Lewiston & Auburn. While our efforts might look different over the course of our history, there is a common thread throughout. We strive every day to ensure that every individual has the opportunity to achieve their full potential, so that they may contribute their full measure to the success of our broader community. Fostering inclusion and belonging in our workplaces and communities is critical to unlocking that full potential and we are proud to partner with the YWCA to be leaders in this work.”
Businesses looking for financial assistance to send staff can apply to the Maine Workforce Development Compact. YWCA Central Maine is a verified member, as well as a listed training vendor. This means that, any employer looking to become a compact member or is already registered as a compact member can request training funds for employees to attend trainings and conferences such as YWCA’s upcoming Stand Against Racism Conference. The compact member benefits allow each employer to apply for funding and receive up to $1,200 in training funding per frontline employee per year. This is a free program for employers and can reduce the cost of the conference ticket by 50%. Apply now and offset the training costs of your employees and be able to send staff to our upcoming conference. For more information, please visit the website: https://www.mccs.me.edu/workforce-training/grant-funded-training/
All proceeds from Stand Against Racism support the work YWCA Central Maine does each day in service of its missions to eliminate racism and empower women while promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Those interested in sponsoring the conference or learning about group rates, or scholarship opportunities can contact Jennifer Molloy, Chief Development and Communications Officer at jmolloy@ywcamaine.org
To learn more about the Stand Against Racism Conference or to register go to: https://standagainstracism2025.eventbrite.com/
###
About YWCA Central Maine
Founded in 1878, YWCA Central Maine began as a service provider for women immigrating to Lewiston to work in the mills. The organization was originally known as the Women’s Benevolent Association and offered housing, language classes, job training, and recreation that allowed working women to thrive in their new country. In its early years, it was housed in buildings located at the corner of Bates and Pine Streets in Lewiston and on Main Street in Auburn. It served as a place for women to receive support services, particularly during the war years. The YWCA’s history inspires us to provide programming that builds community through strengthening inter-cultural relationships and valuing the needs and contributions of all of our members. Our programming is guided by a belief in appreciation of diversity and equitable opportunity for all people in our community. All YWCA services work toward the realization of gender and racial equity through providing accessible and culturally appropriate resources for health and wellness, recreation, childcare, and advocacy. The advancement of women, people of color, and economic justice in Lewiston-Auburn is integral in all that we do. From affordable childcare that supports families and women in the workplace to free-of-charge therapeutic swim programs to anti-racist education and action, the YWCA strives to bring this mission to fruition in big and small ways every day. www.ywcamaine.org
About Androscoggin Bank
For over 150 years, Androscoggin Bank has been fueling Maine’s growth, empowering businesses, and giving back to our communities. But our commitment to making a positive impact goes deeper than simply writing a check of support. We strive to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to making the future more equitable for everyone, through innovative programs and financial solutions, as well as, forging strong relationships with mission-aligned organizations and people. We’re committed to provide expert service that leads to great financial and people outcomes. www.androscogginbank.com
For more information, contact: Jennifer Molloy; Chief Development and Communications Officer, YWCA Central Maine – jmolloy@ywcamaine.org