Clients
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Current
Camden National Bank (2010) Serving Maine since 1875, Camden National Bank has grown to nearly 40 locations statewide. We have been hired to provide leadership and team building sessions for company officers at their annual Leadership Development Forum, held at Point Lookout in Northport. CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) (2010) Headquartered in Portland, Maine, CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) is the leading U.S. non-governmental international education organization. CIEE creates and administers programs that allow high school and university students and educators to study and teach abroad. For the fourth year in a row, CIEE management has hired us to facilitate a multi-day retreat among regional directors from all over the country to work through many issues, make decisions, and engage in fun team-building exercises. We will prepare a report following the retreat. Dragon Cement (2010) This Rockland, Maine producer of cement products retains us to facilitate a community advisory panel. The group meets every two months and serves as a forum for learning and dialogue between plant managers and community leaders. Elder Issues Partnership (2004-2010) A large coalition of organizations that serve elderly in various ways has banded together in a coalition and retains us to facilitate their monthly meetings which always consist of exchanging information about state and federal policy initiatives and often include outside speakers on topics of interest. In addition, we provide complete secretariat services which includes meeting write up and distribution, handling all correspondance, managing a website and list serve on behalf of the group, and arranging meeting facilities. The group tries to influence state policy to better serve elderly people. Farmington Downtown Association (2009-2010) We have been hired by the Farmington Downtown Association to develop plans for assessing parking supply and demand as well as consumer preferences for retail opportunities. Downtown Farmington was recently designated a member of the Main Street Network, a new program of the Maine Downtown Center.
FMC BioPolymer (2005-2010) As part of its Responsible Care initiative, this Rockland, Maine chemical manufacturing company retains us to facilitate a community advisoy panel. The group meets every two months and serves as a forum for learning and dialogue between plant managers and community leaders.
Maine Association of Nonprofits (2010) The Maine Association of Nonprofits, representing over 700 nonprofit organizations in Maine, has hired us to facilitate a full day conference at Maple Hill Farm in Hallowell, to kick off an exploration of how to improve delivery of human services in Maine via nonprofits. We will also prepare a complete report of the meeting. Maine Infection Prevention Collaborative (2010) Made up of representatives from each of Maine’s 39 hospitals, the Maine Infection Prevention Collaborative (MIPC) seeks to prevent and control health care associated infections. We have been hired to facilitate regular 5-hour meetings of the Collaborative. The MIPC makes decisions by consensus. Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (2010) The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) is the oldest and largest state organic organization in the country. MOFGA helps farmers, gardeners and rural communities build connections, increase local food production and protect the environment. Each year, volunteers and professionals moderate panel discussions at the Farmer to Farmer Conference put on by MOFGA. We have been hired to provide training for volunteer moderators. Merriconeag Waldorf School (2010) Located in Freeport, Merriconeag is Maine’s largest Waldorf school, offering pre-K through high school education to almost 300 students. We have been hired to work with teachers and parents on organizational development issues. National Audubon Society (2010) Three organizations, National Audubon Society, Maine Audubon and Kieve-Wavus Education, Inc., have collectively hired us to facilitate discussions about the future of Hog Island, off the coast of Maine near Bremen. Quality Review Council (2005-2010) The Quality Review Council is established by state law to review homecare services provided by Elder Independence of Maine. The Council reviews quality reports and also works on short-term, high priority projects to improve home care. We have been retained to facilitate all regular meetings of the Council.
Reducing Youth Obesity in Maine (2010) The Daniel Hanley Center for Health Leadership was asked by Health Policy Partners of Maine to convene a forum that would bring together key leaders representing a wide range of interests. We’ve been hired to facilitate a full-day discussion among educators, private employers, and environmentalists to develop strategies to reduce youth obesity in Maine. Corporate
Bangor Hydro Electric Company (2006) At Camp Kieve on the shores of Damariscotta Lake, we worked in "outdoor classrooms" with the senior management team of Bangor Hydro to develop team skills and appreciation of different personality styles. Bank of America (2009) Bank of America convened a community roundtable of Portland area leaders in the philanthropic and nonprofit communities to share information and identify potential collaborations between organizations. We facilitated the roundtable and prepared a report.
Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce (2008) The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Town of Bar Harbor and other key institutions, convened a series of meetings among business and community leaders to discuss innovative approaches to developing more business activity in the shoulder seasons. We were hired to facilitate these multi-stakeholder meetings and prepare the resulting summary reports. Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce (2007) The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Town of Bar Harbor and other key institutions, convened a meeting among business and community leaders to discuss innovative approaches to developing more business activity in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). We were hired to facilitate the meeting and prepare the resulting report of findings. Bay State Gas / Northern Utilities (2007) Bay State Gas / Northern Utilities serves 280,000 customers in Massachusetts and 55,000 customers in Maine and New Hampshire and they are always seeking to improve customer service. We were hired to conduct a telephone survey of sales staff, facilitate a staff retreat, and prepare a complete report. Camden National Bank (2010) Serving Maine since 1875, Camden National Bank has grown to nearly 40 locations statewide. We have been hired to provide leadership and team building sessions for company officers at their annual Leadership Development Forum, held at Point Lookout in Northport. Chalmers Group (2009) This well-established, family-owned group of insurance companies based in Bridgton, Maine has hired us to help them develop a strategic plan. The process included one-on-one interviews with management staff and a strategic planning retreat. Dragon Cement (2010) This Rockland, Maine producer of cement products retains us to facilitate a community advisory panel. The group meets every two months and serves as a forum for learning and dialogue between plant managers and community leaders. FMC BioPolymer (2005-2010) As part of its Responsible Care initiative, this Rockland, Maine chemical manufacturing company retains us to facilitate a community advisoy panel. The group meets every two months and serves as a forum for learning and dialogue between plant managers and community leaders.
Genetics Squared (2005) This Ann Arbor, Michigan startup company asked our help with developing communications and decision making norms among its executive leadership team. They wanted a culture of collaboration, yet the fast pace of their work environment demanded efficiency. We helped them find the balance. Machias, Town of (2007) In collaboration with Coplon Associates of Bar Harbor, we worked for the Town of Machias, Maine to develop a plan for downtown revitalization. Maine Osteopathic Association (2009) The organization, which is dedicated to providing professional education and services for the osteopathic profession to ensure the quality of osteopathic care to the people of Maine, hired us to facilitate a full-day retreat of the Board of Directors focusing on strategic planning. Following the retreat, we prepared a report.
Medical Rehabilitation Associates (2009-2010) This highly successful partnership of physicians with offices in Brunswick, Lewiston and Augusta hired us to help them better define roles and governance procedures.
North Country Associates (2005) North Country Associates is a leading provider of post acute Medicare skilled nursing, rehabilitation and long term care in New England. This private corporation operates 20 facilities and has about 1600 employees. They hired us to work with their senior management team over a six month period to improve communications and overall productivity, and help establish their strategic direction. North Country Associates (2006) North Country Associates is a leading provider of post acute Medicare skilled nursing, rehabilitation and long term care in New England. This private corporation operates 20 facilities and has about 1600 employees. They hired us to work at specific facilities to improve communications and effectiveness among department heads. Providence Service Corporation of Maine (2009) Providence Service Corporation of Maine, also known as Providence of Maine, is an organization specializing in nonresidential community-based services. We were hired to facilitate a strategic planning retreat with the management staff. Providence Service Corporation of Maine (2010) Providence Service Corporation of Maine, also known as Providence of Maine, is an organization specializing in nonresidential community-based services. We were hired to facilitate a focus group discussion among high school educators to explore potential opportunities for collaboration in light of new federal funding. R.H. Foster Energy, LLC (2007) R.H. Foster Energy, LLC of Hamden, Maine, with about 370 employees, operates convenience stores, transports oil and propane, and provides energy services and sales. They hired us to facilitate a full-day retreat of 25 managers to review 2006 initiatives and establish a strategic plan for 2007. The day was a productive mix of critical decision-making and fun team building. We also prepared a report to serve as a preliminary strategic plan. R.H. Foster Energy, LLC (2008) R.H. Foster Energy, LLC of Hamden, Maine, with about 370 employees, operates convenience stores, transports oil and propane, and provides energy services and sales. Like last year, they hired us again to facilitate a full-day retreat of 25 managers to review 2007 initiatives and establish a strategic plan for 2008. The day was a productive mix of critical decision-making and fun team building. We prepared a complete report to serve as a preliminary strategic plan. Taggart Construction (2009) Based in Freeport, Maine, Taggart Construction supports, promotes, and design buildings for high performance and sustainability. They hired us to work with the company president and senior management to develop a new strategic plan. Transformit (2008) Transformit is a Maine-based company that produces and installs interior tension fabric structures for companies and events around the globe, and is known as the artistic and technical leader in tension-fabric structures. They hired us to facilitate a full-day retreat of managers designed to improve team effectiveness and build leadership capacity. Education
Bowdoin College (2008-Fall) We were hired by Bowdoin College to work with staff of an administrative office to improve communications and team effectiveness. We conducted advance interviews with all staff within that office, facilitated a half-day retreat and prepared a summary report. Bowdoin College (2008-Spring) We were hired to conduct a professional development luncheon among all the Student Affairs staff of Bowdoin College. We reviewed basic mediation principles and discussed specific case studies. Bowdoin College (2010) Bowdoin is a nationally renowned college of liberal arts and science in Maine. We’ve been hired by the Student Activities Office to facilitate a full-day staff retreat. Breakwater School (2007) The Breakwater School is an independent pre-school and elementary school located in Portland, Maine. Founded in 1956, Breakwater is private, non-denominational, and co-educational. They hired us to facilitate a short series of meetings among the board, parents, and faculty. Brunswick School Building Committee (2007) The Elementary School Building Committee was charged by the Town Council to develop recommendations on the location and design of a new elementary school. We were hired by the Brunswick Office of Superintendent of Schools to facilitate meetings of the Committee and prepare summary reports of each meeting. CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) (2007) Having recently moved from Boston to Portland, CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) is the leading U.S. non-governmental international education organization. CIEE creates and administers programs that allow high school and university students and educators to study and teach abroad. CIEE management hired us to facilitate a multi-day retreat among regional directors from all over the country at a camp-on-a-lake setting. We worked through many issues, made several decisions and did some fun, team-building exercises. CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) (2008) Headquartered in Portland, Maine, CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) is the leading U.S. non-governmental international education organization. CIEE creates and administers programs that allow high school and university students and educators to study and teach abroad. As in 2007, CIEE management hired us to facilitate a multi-day retreat among regional directors from all over the country at which they worked through many issues, made decisions, and engaged in fun team-building exercises. Following the retreat, we prepared a summary report. CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) (2009) Headquartered in Portland, Maine, CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) is the leading U.S. non-governmental international education organization. CIEE creates and administers programs that allow high school and university students and educators to study and teach abroad. For the third year in a row, CIEE management hired us to facilitate a multi-day retreat among regional directors from all over the country to work through many issues, make decisions, and engage in fun team-building exercises. Following the retreat, we prepared a report. CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) (2010) Headquartered in Portland, Maine, CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) is the leading U.S. non-governmental international education organization. CIEE creates and administers programs that allow high school and university students and educators to study and teach abroad. For the fourth year in a row, CIEE management has hired us to facilitate a multi-day retreat among regional directors from all over the country to work through many issues, make decisions, and engage in fun team-building exercises. We will prepare a report following the retreat. Kieve-Wavus Education, Inc. (2005) This newly formed organization, a merger of Camp Kieve and Wavus Camps, held its first board meeting over two days on the shores of Damariscotta Lake. We were hired to plan the agenda, facilitate the meetings, and prepare meeting reports. Kieve-Wavus Education, Inc. (2006-Fall) As they did six months ago, the board of directors of Kieve-Wavus Education, Inc. asked us to facilitate their full day board meeting. We also prepared a detailed meeting report. Kieve-Wavus Education, Inc. (2006-Spring) Again, we facilitated the annual meeting of the Kieve-Wavus Education, Inc. Trustees on the shores of Damariscotta Lake. L/A Arts (2010) L/A Arts increases awareness, appreciation and support of the arts in the Lewiston-Auburn area by offering programs in education, performance and community service. We were hired to facilitate a full day retreat of the staff and board focused on strategic planning. Leominster High School (2005) Senior administrative staff of this 1800-student High School in Massachusetts came for a weekend retreat to Camp Kieve on the shores of Damariscotta Lake. They are organizing into five distinct "small schools" and thus needed to work out many details about how the five headmasters will work collaboratively and independently. We facilitated the meeting and wrote the meeting report; a documentation of their new agreements. The Kieve team-building staff also helped them build trust and improve communication skills, making full use of Kieve's "outdoor classrooms." Machias School District and SAD #37 (2007 & 2008) We were hired by two Maine school districts, the Machias School District and School Administrative District #37, to facilitate a series of meetings and try to broker an agreement to jointly govern a regional High School. Maine Assembly on School-Based Health Care (2006) On beautiful Mount Desert Island we spent a day with the board of directors of the Maine Assembly on School-Based Health Care. We helped the group decide their strategic priorities for the next five years and create a vision for school-based health centers, literally, on a huge 4’x8’ piece of paper! Maine Assembly on School-based Health Care (2007) The goal of the Maine Assembly on School-based Health Care (MeASBHC) is to improve children’s success by keeping them healthy, in school and ready to learn. MeASBHC supports the development and operations of school based health care services to accomplish this goal. We have worked with them before and they recently hired us again to help them survey stakeholders and finalize their strategic plan. MEA Benefits Trust (2010) The MEA Benefits Trust administers health insurance and other benefits for Maine Education Association. We have been hired to facilitate a full day retreat of the Board of Trustees to work on strategic planning and related issues. We are also conducting advance interviews with each of the trustees. Merriconeag Waldorf School (2005-2009) In various capacities, including volunteer Board Chair, Craig has served as a consultant to the Merriconeag Waldorf School parents, faculty, and board members on issues including the school's overall growth and development and specific projects. Merriconeag Waldorf School (2010) Located in Freeport, Merriconeag is Maine’s largest Waldorf school, offering pre-K through high school education to almost 300 students. We have been hired to work with teachers and parents on organizational development issues. Pentucket Regional School District (2008) The Pentucket Regional School District, serving the towns of Groveland, Merrimac and West Newbury, Massachusetts, hired us to facilitate a four-hour meeting of the school committee where we developed annual priorities and operating guidelines. In addition, they hired us to work with the administrative team consisting of the superintendent and six principals, to refine roles and responsibilities. Portland Public Schools (2004) The Portland Partnership hired us to work with teachers and administrators of Adams Elementary School to improve meeting efficiency. Portland Symphony Orchestra (2008) The Portland Symphony Orchestra recognizes and takes seriously its role as a leading community educator about orchestral music. To be most effective, the orchestra wanted to nurture collaborative relationships with music educators and organizational partners from throughout the community. We were hired to facilitate a Music Educators and Organizational Partners Forum to brainstorm and prioritize ideas. Providence Service Corporation of Maine (2010) Providence Service Corporation of Maine, also known as Providence of Maine, is an organization specializing in nonresidential community-based services. We were hired to facilitate a focus group discussion among high school educators to explore potential opportunities for collaboration in light of new federal funding. Regional School Unit 18 – Messalonskee School District (2010) Faced with projected multi-year budget constraints, this central Maine school district hired us to facilitate a large public input meeting. The purpose of the meeting was to explain the situation, and gather public comment on potential closures and/or reorganization of buildings and schools. Regional School Unit 24 (2009) The brand-new school board for RSU 24 hired us to facilitate a kick-off retreat. Given the recent consolidation of three school districts (Ellsworth; School Union 92, which includes Lamoine, Hancock, Mariaville, Eastbrook, and Waltham; and School Union 96, which includes Franklin, Gouldsboro, Sorrento, Steuben, Sullivan and Winter Harbor) into one, the board wanted to get off on the right foot. We discussed everything from how board members interact with each other to initial goals for the new district. After the meeting, we prepared a report. School Administrative District #37 (2007 & 2008) We were hired by two Maine school districts, the Machias School District and School Administrative District #37, to facilitate a series of meetings and try to broker an agreement to jointly govern a regional High School. School Union 52 (2005) The town of Winslow, Maine has aging public schools and needed to make some hard decisions about which to close and how to consolidate. The School Committee convened a large public forum to present four potential options and provide townspeople a chance to ask questions and make comments. Hired by School Union 52 (Winslow, China, Vassalboro), we facilitated the discussion, administered a straw poll during the meeting, and wrote a report which included a summmary of all the questions and comments. University of New England (2008) The Colleges of Arts and Sciences at the University of New England hired us to work on organizational issues within a particular department. Our work involved individual interviews followed by a full-day retreat. Westbrook School Department (2009-2010) The Westbrook School Department hired us to help develop a strategic plan. Working with the school board and the newly-appointed superintendent over a six-month period, we managed a process that included substantial community input, such as focus group meetings and a community-wide survey. Environment
Androscoggin Land Trust (2008) The Androscoggin Land Trust is dedicated to protecting, through land conservation and stewardship, the important natural areas, traditional landscapes, and outdoor experience along the central Androscoggin River corridor. We were hired to facilitate a full day retreat of the board of directors to assess the current organizational capacity and environmental trends, develop strategic goals, and refine the organization’s mission. In addition to facilitating the meeting, we also prepared a complete report that will serve as the basis for a strategic plan. Environment Northeast (2008) Environment Northeast (ENE) is a non-profit organization that researches and advocates innovative policies that tackle environmental challenges while promoting sustainable economies. We were hired to facilitate a board retreat and a staff retreat in order to help establish a strategic direction and improve effectiveness. We prepared summary reports for both retreats. GoMOOS (Gulf of Maine Ocean Observing System) (2007) The Gulf of Maine Ocean Observing System is a national pilot program designed to bring hourly oceanographic data from the Gulf of Maine to all those who need it. GoMOOS is a regional consortium of interests and disciplines based in Portland, Maine. They hired us to help the board decide how to evolve most effectively. We facilitated a full-day retreat of government agency officials and scientists and prepared the meeting report. Green Building Council (2007) This young non-profit is Maine’s foremost coalition of leaders from across the building industry working to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. They hired us to help them establish their strategic direction. We facilitated a full-day retreat of the board and prepared a report which is serving as the basis for their strategic plan. Green Building Council (2008) This energetic and rapidly growing non-profit is Maine’s foremost coalition of leaders from across the building industry working to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. Like the year before, they hired us again to facilitate a full-day board retreat and prepare a complete report. Green Building Council (2010) The Maine Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council is Maine’s foremost coalition of leaders from across the building industry working to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. For the third time, they hired us to facilitate a full-day board retreat and prepare a complete report. Gulf of Maine Research Institute (2007) The Gulf of Maine Research Institute convened ground fishermen from Cape Cod to the coastal Maine to discuss new, innovative ways to manage the fishery. With the hope of achieving consensus on recommendations to the New England Fisheries Management Council, we were hired to facilitate the discussions and prepare a report of conclusions. Gulf of Maine Research Institute (2008-Fall) Regulations for groundfishing in the Gulf of Maine and on Geroges Bank are changing to allow fishermen to gather in cooperative "sectors." How will the catch be monitored and reported under the new system? We were hired to facilitate discussions among fishing trade associations, regulators, scientists, and environmental groups to explore consensus on monitoring and reporting methods. Gulf of Maine Research Institute (2008-Summer) Regulations for groundfishing in the Gulf of Maine and on Geroges Bank are changing to allow fishermen to gather in cooperative "sectors." How will the catch be monitored and reported under the new system? We were hired to facilitate discussions among fishing trade associations, regulators, scientists, and environmental groups to explore consensus on monitoring and reporting methods. We also prepared a complete report of the meeting, which was submitted directly to the New England Fisheries Management Council. Hurricane Island Foundation (2010) We’ve been hired to facilitate a discussion forum among a variety of stakeholders to consider the future of Hurricane Island, formerly the home of Hurricane Island Outward Bound. This meeting is being convened on Hurricane Island in beautiful Penobscot Bay. Hydrogen Energy Center (2008) The Hydrogen Energy Center, an organization dedicated to advancing the transition to a renewable hydrogen economy through education, demonstration, and advocacy, engaged us to facilitate a strategic planning retreat of its board members. L/A Trails (2007) L/A Trails is a non-profit organization in Lewiston & Auburn that advocates for and helps create recreational trails. They hired us to plan and facilitate a board retreat focused on strategic planning. We also prepared a report of the meeting. Maine Audubon (2010) Maine Audubon works to conserve Maine’s wildlife and wildlife habitat by engaging people of all ages in education, conservation and action. We were hired to facilitate a series of seven meetings with the board of directors and senior staff to work on developing a brand identity for the organization. Maine Coast Heritage Trust (2008) Each year, Maine Coast Heritage Trust hosts the Maine Land Conservation Conference. The theme of 2008'S conference was Connecting Conservation and Communities. We facilitated the conference Idea Forum, a session designed to give colleagues in the field the opportunity to share and brainstorm new partnerships, financing mechanisms and other tools for land conservation in Maine. Maine Coast Protection Initiative (2004) The Land Trust Alliance, State Planning Office, NOAA, Maine Coast Heritage Trust and other organizations embarked on a three-year project to increase conservation lands along Maine's coast. They hired us to facilitate their meetings and help them establish a coalition of over thirty organizations and begin to develop their plan. Maine Environmental Education Association (2006) This volunteer collaborative of organizations and individuals who promote and facilitate environmental education hired us to facilitate their full-day board retreat intended to result in a strategic plan. Maine Environmental Funders Network (2007) A joint project of the Maine Community Foundation and Maine Philanthropy Center, the Environmental Funders Network helps to identify and create ways to improve and sustain Maine's natural environment. We were hired to facilitate a full-day strategic planning meeting of the board of directors. Maine Environmental Funders Network (2008) The Environmental Funders Network (EFN), an alliance of Maine-based foundations with environmental interests, helps to identify and create ways to improve and sustain Maine’s natural environment. We were hired to facilitate two meetings which explored potential collaborations around the theme of "Quality of Place." Members discussed how the environmental philanthropic community can work together to improve the quality of Maine’s environment. Maine Environmental Funders Network (2009) The Environmental Funders Network, an alliance of Maine-based foundations with environmental interests, helps to identify and create ways to improve and sustain Maine’s natural environment. We were hired to facilitate another meeting in the group's continuing exploration of how to collaborate around the theme of "Quality of Place." Maine Environmental Funders Network (2010) We were hired to facilitate a strategic planning retreat for this coalition of environmental philanthropists. As a joint project of the Maine Community Foundation and Maine Philanthropy Center, the Environmental Funders Network helps to identify and create ways to improve and sustain Maine's natural environment.
Maine Global Warming Action Coalition (2008) The Maine Global Warming Action Coalition is administered by the Natural Resources Council of Maine and consists of twenty nonprofit organizations concerned with global warming. They came together to discuss a common agenda and how best to work with each other. In addition to facilitating a meeting, we also helped with an advance survey of all coalition members and we prepared a summary report. Maine Housing and Building Materials Exchange (2007) The Maine Housing and Building Materials Exchange benefits low income families and the environment by providing new and reusable building materials at an affordable price. They hired us to facilitate two half-day meetings of the board of directors which resulted in a written strategic plan. Maine Interfaith Power and Light (2007) Inspired by diverse faith perspectives, Maine Interfaith Power and Light works to protect the natural world from climate change by engaging the faith communities and people of Maine in energy conservation and the use of clean, renewable energy. They hired us to work with the Executive Committee and Board to improve board operations and establish strategic direction. Maine Interfaith Power and Light (2008) Inspired by diverse faith perspectives, Maine Interfaith Power and Light works to protect the natural world from climate change by engaging the faith communities and people of Maine in energy conservation and the use of clean, renewable energy. They hired us to help the board establish strategic direction and work on specific issues. Maine Interfaith Power and Light (2009) Inspired by diverse faith perspectives, Maine Interfaith Power and Light works to protect the natural world from climate change by engaging the faith communities and people of Maine in energy conservation and the use of clean, renewable energy. They hired us to facilitate the board's annual strategic planning retreat. We also prepared a report outlining the new strategic direction and the board's work on specific issues. Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (2008) The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) hired us to facilitate a discussion among the MOFGA board of directors and the board of directors of MOFGA Certification Services, LLC, the wholly-owned subsidiary of MOFGA that certifies organic farmers on behalf of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (2010) The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) is the oldest and largest state organic organization in the country. MOFGA helps farmers, gardeners and rural communities build connections, increase local food production and protect the environment. Each year, volunteers and professionals moderate panel discussions at the Farmer to Farmer Conference put on by MOFGA. We have been hired to provide training for volunteer moderators. Maine Public Utilities Commission - Energy Division (2006) The Energy Division of the Maine Public Utilities Commission promotes the more efficient use of electricity statewide through Efficiency Maine and the Maine State Energy Program. They hired us to facilitate a full day staff retreat and help them develop a resulting strategic plan. Maine Sustainable Agriculture Society (2008) The Maine Sustainable Agriculture Society explores, develops and promotes agricultural systems and practices that allow Maine farmers to retain a greater share of consumer expenditures for farm products. We facilitated a half-day board retreat focused on strategic planning. In advance of the retreat, we interviewed each board member and prepared a report of the findings which informed the discussion around the future direction of the organization. Six months after the planning retreat, we facilitated a follow-up board retreat. Mid-Coast Magnet (2009) Despite the growing number of green building practitioners, the actual transformation of Maine’s built environment towards improved energy efficiency is not happening fast enough. This is the challenge that Mid-Coast Magnet, a non-profit based in Rockland/Camden, confronted at the statewide Built Energy Forum in Augusta. We were hired to facilitate the break-out sessions of the conference. We also prepared the conference report. National Audubon Society (2010) Three organizations, National Audubon Society, Maine Audubon and Kieve-Wavus Education, Inc., have collectively hired us to facilitate discussions about the future of Hog Island, off the coast of Maine near Bremen. New England Forestry Foundation (2006) On the heels of two globally significant forest conservation projects, and related fundraising, the board of this sophisticated organization wanted to improve board engagement and be sure of where they were headed next. We facilitated two board meetings and helped them with strategic planning and organizational development. New England Forestry Foundation (2008) The New England Forestry Foundation is dedicated to providing for the conservation and ecologically sound management of privately owned forestlands in New England and beyond. We were hired to conduct a strategic planning board retreat. Northern Forest Canoe Trail (2010) The Northern Forest Canoe Trail is a 700-mile wilderness waterway in New York, Vermont, Quebec, New Hampshire and Maine. We were hired to work with businesses along the Maine section of the trail to design and develop packages for tourists, including specific itineraries. This project is supported by a federal Rural Business Enterprise Grant (RBEG) to promote economic development in the Northern Forest. Northern Forest Center (2008) The Northern Forest Center convened a two-day conference to advance recommendations of the sustainable economy initiative. One hundred people from Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and New York convened to develop consensus on top-priority activities to advance the Northern Forest economy in a sustainable manner. We were hired to facilitate the Regional Coordination and Advocacy Work Group. The KNEADING Conference (2010) The annual KNEADING Conference brings farmers, bakers, and earth oven enthusiasts to Skowhegan to explore the art and science of growing, milling and baking local artisan breads. We are working behind the scenes with the steering committee on developing long term plans for the conference. Government
Bar Harbor, Town of (2007) The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Town of Bar Harbor and other key institutions, convened a meeting among business and community leaders to discuss innovative approaches to developing more business activity in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). We were hired to facilitate the meeting and prepare the resulting report of findings. Bar Harbor, Town of (2008) The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Town of Bar Harbor and other key institutions, convened a series of meetings among business and community leaders to discuss innovative approaches to developing more business activity in the shoulder seasons. We were hired to facilitate these multi-stakeholder meetings and prepare the resulting summary reports. Bath Planning Department (2007) The City of Bath Planning Department hired us to facilitate a public forum at which residents discussed desired characteristics of potential new downtown buildings. As part of the forum, images of downtown buildings were displayed around the room and participants "voted" for their favorites. We also prepared a report of the meeting to assist property owners and policy makers as they make future decisions about downtown development. Brunswick Economic Development Corporation (2008) The directors of both the Brunswick Economic Development Corporation and Topsham Development, Inc. convened a workshop on design and impact issues, opportunities, and challenges presented by the potential development of a midcoast regional business park. Through the workshop, the two organizations solicited public comments and ideas regarding how design standards might be used to manage appearance, community and environmental impacts, and even what sorts of business tenants should be targeted to align with such standards. We were hired to facilitate the workshop and prepare a report. Brunswick School Building Committee (2007) The Elementary School Building Committee was charged by the Town Council to develop recommendations on the location and design of a new elementary school. We were hired by the Brunswick Office of Superintendent of Schools to facilitate meetings of the Committee and prepare summary reports of each meeting. Consumer Council System of Maine (2010) This statewide council, mandated by the State Legislature to represent consumers of mental and behavioral health services, hired us to facilitate a full day conference focused on ethics and team building. In addition to planning and facilitating an ambitious agenda, we also prepared a complete report of the meeting. Direct Health Care Worker Registry (2006) In response to a recent legislative mandate, a coalition of organizations, including the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program, the Maine Center for Economic Policy, the Muskie School of USM, and the DHHS Office of Elder Services, hired us to facilitate dialogue among health care providers, workers, and consumers. Our objective was to find common ground among these interests and develop consensus recommendations on the nature of a statewide registry of direct care workers. Fryeburg Board of Selectmen (2009) The Fryeburg Selectmen hired us to facilitate two public workshops to introduce and clarify proposals to increase citizen participation in Town Meetings and in voting on town issues. During the workshops, held on two consecutive evenings, the community was encouraged to ask the Selectmen questions and offer their comments on the proposals. Gardiner City Council (2009) We were hired to facilitate two workshops of the Gardiner City Council that were convened to review and affirm roles and responsibilities of Council members and to establish goals for the Council over the next few years. We also prepared summary reports of the workshops. Gardiner City Council (2010) We were hired to facilitate a workshop of the Gardiner City Council focused on best practices for governance. This was follow-up on the work that we did with the city council last year. GoMOOS (Gulf of Maine Ocean Observing System) (2007) The Gulf of Maine Ocean Observing System is a national pilot program designed to bring hourly oceanographic data from the Gulf of Maine to all those who need it. GoMOOS is a regional consortium of interests and disciplines based in Portland, Maine. They hired us to help the board decide how to evolve most effectively. We facilitated a full-day retreat of government agency officials and scientists and prepared the meeting report. Governor's Council on Physical Fitness, Sports, Health, and Wellness (2005) This Governor-appointed Council hired us to plan and facilitate a highly interactive one-day retreat. The group affirmed their mission and determined specific goals and actions to make them more effective. We also prepared a written report of the meeting. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) (2009-Fall) We were hired to provide four facilitators for the HRSA Community Strategic Partnership Conference in Portland, Maine in October. This was a gathering of practitioners from across New England to collaborate on ways to improve delivery of rural healthcare.
Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) (2009-Summer) The federal Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) partnered with the Maine Primary Care Association and the Maine Center for Disease Control to hold a strategic partnership meeting focused on connecting specialists with rural health providers to address Hepatitis C. They hired us to facilitate a full day meeting of these providers to discuss how to improve connections with specialist consultants regarding the disease. In addition to facilitating the meeting, we prepared a complete report.
Healthy Maine Partnership, City of Portland (2007) The City of Portland received a significant Healthy Maine Partnership grant from the Maine Center for Disease Control to provide public health and related services. We were hired to facilitate a board retreat to discuss how Healthy Portland will transition into a larger initiative. We also prepared a complete report of the meeting. Leominster High School (2005) Senior administrative staff of this 1800-student High School in Massachusetts came for a weekend retreat to Camp Kieve on the shores of Damariscotta Lake. They are organizing into five distinct "small schools" and thus needed to work out many details about how the five headmasters will work collaboratively and independently. We facilitated the meeting and wrote the meeting report; a documentation of their new agreements. The Kieve team-building staff also helped them build trust and improve communication skills, making full use of Kieve's "outdoor classrooms." Machias, Town of (2007) In collaboration with Coplon Associates of Bar Harbor, we worked for the Town of Machias, Maine to develop a plan for downtown revitalization. Maine Administrators of Services for Children with Disabilities (2007) The Maine Administrators of Services for Children with Disabilities (MADSEC) believes in, and advocates for, the right of all students to receive a free and appropriate public education. As a service to members, they provide several professional growth opportunities and they hired us to deliver a workshop for members on the topic of communications with a focus on e-mail. Maine Center for Disease Control (2005) We were hired by the Maine Center for Disease Control (formerly the Bureau of Public Health) and the Muskie School for Public Service to facilitate four break-out sessions for a full-day, statewide conference on Pandemic Flu Planning for Communities. Maine Center for Disease Control (2007) The Maine Center for Disease Control issued an RFP for statewide delivery of public health services. They convened a bidders conference in Augusta and asked Good Group Decisions to provide four facilitators for regional break-out sessions. Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (2009) We were hired to provide several facilitators for a statewide conference designed to develop a plan to vaccinate Maine residents against the H1N1 virus, also known as Swine Flu.
Maine County Commissioner's Association (2007) We planned and facilitated a full-day retreat of the Maine County Commissioner's Association which consists of County Commissioners and Administrators from thoughout Maine. The retreat resulted in several key decisions about the organization's strategic direction and specific tasks to be done. Maine Department of Agriculture (2008) The Maine Department of Agriculture engages in several activities that overlap with the Maine Farmland Trust. We were hired to facilitate a full-day retreat of leaders from these two organizations to discuss how to coordinate activities most effectively. Maine Department of Agriculture (2009) As part of the state rule making process, the Maine Department of Agriculture hired us to facilitate a meeting among stakeholders to discuss the Voluntary Municipal Farm Support Program. In addition to facilitating the meeting, we prepared a complete report. Maine Department of Health and Human Services (2005) The Maine Department of Health and Human Services was awarded a grant to develop a statewide Oral Health Improvement Plan in collaboration with stakeholders ranging from regulators to providers. We were sub-contracted by Medical Care Development to facilitate meetings of Maine's Oral Health Advisory Committee, to facilitate a statewide conference, and to write the resulting plan. Maine Department of Health and Human Services (2006) In moving to a system of Managed Care for mental health and substance abuse treatment services, the Maine Department of Health and Human Services wanted to be sure and hear from stakeholders about what was working well and what should be improved. In collaboration with the Muskie School for Public Service, we were asked to facilitate and report on a series of 14 public meetings designed to gather input. We also established a website for the benefit of the stakeholders. Maine Department of Labor (2004) Craig facilitated a series of meetings for the Bureau of Employment Services designed to develop common understanding of how employment services are currently funded, develop recommendations for bridging short term gaps, and develop enduring principles useful for future budgeting decisions. Maine Infection Prevention Collaborative (2010) Made up of representatives from each of Maine’s 39 hospitals, the Maine Infection Prevention Collaborative (MIPC) seeks to prevent and control health care associated infections. We have been hired to facilitate regular 5-hour meetings of the Collaborative. The MIPC makes decisions by consensus. Maine Nutrition Network (2006) At beautiful Maple Hill Farm in Hallowell, we facilitated a full day conference for the members of the Maine Nutrition Network. About a hundred people attended. We helped the group decide their mission and specific areas of work for the next few years, along with how they should best be structured to achieve their goals. As follow up, we helped them write their strategic plan to be finalized at their annual meeting. Maine Public Utilities Commission - Energy Division (2006) The Energy Division of the Maine Public Utilities Commission promotes the more efficient use of electricity statewide through Efficiency Maine and the Maine State Energy Program. They hired us to facilitate a full day staff retreat and help them develop a resulting strategic plan. Maine State Planning Office (2007-late Winter) To make sure that all views were heard in a respectful, focused manner, the State Planning Office hired us to moderate a formal public hearing on a proposed rule under Maine's Informed Growth Act. Maine State Planning Office (2007-Summer & Fall) The State Planning Office (SPO) reviews the comprehensive land use plans of Maine municipalities and was on the verge of proposing a new way for it to be done. Before changes were actually made, SPO wanted to hear from stakeholders around the state. They hired us to facilitate a series of meetings and prepare a report of findings. They also hired us to facilitate a public hearing on proposed rule changes. We established a website specifically designed to inform stakeholders about the rule-changing process and solicit their comments.
Maine State Planning Office (2007-Summer) The Land Use Team of the State Planning Office hired us for a three-hour session focused on personality type assessment and how the team can work together most effectively. Maine State Planning Office (2010) The Governor hosted a Jobs Summit in February and we agreed to provide volunteer facilitation services for this important full-day conference in Augusta. Muskie School of the University of Southern Maine (2007) We were hired by the Integrated Core Injury Prevention and Control Program of the Muskie School of the University of Southern Maine to facilitate a full-day, statewide conference on how to reduce the misuse of perscription drugs. We provided multiple facilitators for the day and also prepared a report of the conference. Natural Resource-based Industries Steering Committee (2004) The Natural Resource-based Industries Steering Committee, appointed by Governor Baldacci, hired us to staff a Working Group of state agency managers and develop a methodology for continued assessment of Maine's natural resource-based industries. We prepared an indicators report designed to inform policy makers about the state of these industries and where they might be headed. The report was published December 9th, 2004.
Norway, Town of (2004) The Town of Norway hired us to study the downtown economy, survey merchants and visitors, analyze urban design issues, and prepare a downtown enhancement strategy. The plan incorporated the Main Street Approach and was built on Norway’s exceptional historic character. We did this project in collaboration with Brian Kent of Kent Associates. Pentucket Regional School District (2008) The Pentucket Regional School District, serving the towns of Groveland, Merrimac and West Newbury, Massachusetts, hired us to facilitate a four-hour meeting of the school committee where we developed annual priorities and operating guidelines. In addition, they hired us to work with the administrative team consisting of the superintendent and six principals, to refine roles and responsibilities. Portland Public Health (2008) The Public Health Division of the City of Portland hired us to help them develop a strategic plan. We interviewed key stakeholders and facilitated a series of management meetings that resulted in a prioritized list of activities to be done over the next three years. The plan contains specific performance measures with data presented graphically. Quality Review Committee (2005) The Quality Review Committee is a state-chartered group with responsibilities to review the quality of work that Elder Independence of Maine delivers to about 3,000 consumers of home-based care services throughout Maine. They hired us to facilitate a strategic planning session to re-consider their overall mission and scope of work. Quality Review Council (2005-2010) The Quality Review Council is established by state law to review homecare services provided by Elder Independence of Maine. The Council reviews quality reports and also works on short-term, high priority projects to improve home care. We have been retained to facilitate all regular meetings of the Council.
Regional School Unit 18 – Messalonskee School District (2010) Faced with projected multi-year budget constraints, this central Maine school district hired us to facilitate a large public input meeting. The purpose of the meeting was to explain the situation, and gather public comment on potential closures and/or reorganization of buildings and schools. Regional School Unit 24 (2009) The brand-new school board for RSU 24 hired us to facilitate a kick-off retreat. Given the recent consolidation of three school districts (Ellsworth; School Union 92, which includes Lamoine, Hancock, Mariaville, Eastbrook, and Waltham; and School Union 96, which includes Franklin, Gouldsboro, Sorrento, Steuben, Sullivan and Winter Harbor) into one, the board wanted to get off on the right foot. We discussed everything from how board members interact with each other to initial goals for the new district. After the meeting, we prepared a report. School Union 52 (2005) The town of Winslow, Maine has aging public schools and needed to make some hard decisions about which to close and how to consolidate. The School Committee convened a large public forum to present four potential options and provide townspeople a chance to ask questions and make comments. Hired by School Union 52 (Winslow, China, Vassalboro), we facilitated the discussion, administered a straw poll during the meeting, and wrote a report which included a summmary of all the questions and comments. State Board of Corrections (2010) Established by the Maine State Legislature to develop and implement a unified correctional system, the State Board of Corrections hired us to facilitate a full day retreat focused on strategic objectives and roles of board, staff, working groups, and focus groups. Topsham Development, Inc. (2008) The directors of both the Brunswick Economic Development Corporation and Topsham Development, Inc. convened a workshop on design and impact issues, opportunities, and challenges presented by the potential development of a midcoast regional business park. Through the workshop, the two organizations solicited public comments and ideas regarding how design standards might be used to manage appearance, community and environmental impacts, and even what sorts of business tenants should be targeted to align with such standards. We were hired to facilitate the workshop and prepare a report. Westbrook School Department (2009-2010) The Westbrook School Department hired us to help develop a strategic plan. Working with the school board and the newly-appointed superintendent over a six-month period, we managed a process that included substantial community input, such as focus group meetings and a community-wide survey. Windham, Town of (2009) The Town of Windham, in partnership with Hudson Realty Capital LLC, a developer, hired us to facilitate a series of meetings to gather public input on the future of Little Falls, a village within the Town of Windham. In this unique approach, the developer and the town sought public input before crafting detailed plans for development of a key piece of property in the heart of the village. We were hired to facilitate the public meetings and prepare resulting reports. York County Community Action Corporation (2008) The Transportation Program of the York County Community Action Corporation promotes self-sufficiency by providing York County residents with a means to get to work and/or services and resources which otherwise would not be accessible. We facilitated the Annual Transportation Gathering, a half-day retreat where employees focused on improving how they work together as a team and serve their customers. Health Care
AARP (2009) Using a unique approach to problem solving, AARP hired us to facilitate a meeting among stakeholders to discuss a proposed legislative bill (LD 1078) that would reorganize the delivery of state-supported long term care. Held at the State House in Augusta, the meeting included the Commissioner and other top officials from the Department of Health and Human Services, legislators, and representatives from several organizations with an interest in long term care. American Psychiatric Association Area One Council (2009) The American Psychiatric Association Area One Council, representing psychiatrists in the six New England states as well as Canada’s Eastern provinces and Quebec, engaged us to facilitate two meetings at its spring conference in Boston. We also prepared reports of the meetings. Blue Hill Center for Holistic Health (2004) This brand new and ambitious board of directors hired Craig to run a kick-off board retreat at which the group made several decisions about how they will operate as a board and approved a draft vision statement for their organization. The board operates by consensus, so there was a fair amount of time devoted to learning consensus process and conflict management. Community Clinical Services (2009) Part of St. Mary's Health System in Lewiston, Maine, Community Clinical Services is a Federally Qualified Health Center with 19 different practice sites. We were hired to facilitate a strategic planning retreat of the board of directors. Community Clinical Services (2010) Part of St. Mary's Health System in Lewiston, Maine, Community Clinical Services is a Federally Qualified Health Center with 19 different practice sites. We were hired to help finalize the organization's strategic plan. DFD Russell Medical Centers (2008) We facilitated a board retreat to develop a new three-year strategic plan for the DFD Russell Medical Centers (DFDRMC) in Leeds, Turner and Monmouth, an independent public/private partnership founded in 1975 to provide affordable and accessible health care to area residents. Direct Health Care Worker Registry (2006) In response to a recent legislative mandate, a coalition of organizations, including the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program, the Maine Center for Economic Policy, the Muskie School of USM, and the DHHS Office of Elder Services, hired us to facilitate dialogue among health care providers, workers, and consumers. Our objective was to find common ground among these interests and develop consensus recommendations on the nature of a statewide registry of direct care workers. Disease Management Collaboration (2008) The Disease Management Practicum Group and the Daniel Hanley Center for Health Leadership, in collaboration with The Institute for Civic Leadership hired us to facilitate a half-day retreat to explore new ways of preventing and managing chronic disease in Maine. Eastern Maine Healthcare (2009) Eastern Maine Healthcare hired us to facilitate internal management discussions in order to improve collaboration and service delivery.
Franklin Healthy Community Coalition (2007) The Healthy Community Coalition promotes health and well-being in Franklin county, Maine and surrounding towns. They hired us to facilitate a half-day retreat of the Board of Directors to establish priorities. Governor's Council on Physical Fitness, Sports, Health, and Wellness (2005) This Governor-appointed Council hired us to plan and facilitate a highly interactive one-day retreat. The group affirmed their mission and determined specific goals and actions to make them more effective. We also prepared a written report of the meeting. H.O.P.E. (2008) "Healing Of Persons Exceptional". Since its inception in 1987, the non-profit H.O.P.E. has provided support for individuals facing illness and life challenges to find meaning, value and purpose in their lives. We were hired to facilitate a planning retreat. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) (2009-Fall) We were hired to provide four facilitators for the HRSA Community Strategic Partnership Conference in Portland, Maine in October. This was a gathering of practitioners from across New England to collaborate on ways to improve delivery of rural healthcare.
Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) (2009-Summer) The federal Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) partnered with the Maine Primary Care Association and the Maine Center for Disease Control to hold a strategic partnership meeting focused on connecting specialists with rural health providers to address Hepatitis C. They hired us to facilitate a full day meeting of these providers to discuss how to improve connections with specialist consultants regarding the disease. In addition to facilitating the meeting, we prepared a complete report.
HealthInfoNet (2010) HealthInfoNet, a non-profit organization was established in 2006 to develop a statewide electronic health information exchange (HIE) for Maine. As a result, Maine is about to become one of the first states in the nation to develop a statewide HIE. We were hired to facilitate a strategic planning retreat for the Board of Directors.
HealthInfoNet and Maine Quality Forum (2008) As a result of a recent legislative resolve, HealthInfoNet and the Maine Quality Forum jointly convened a multi-stakeholder group to study and make recommendations for creating and financing a fund to establish and sustain HealthInfoNet, a statewide digital clinical information network. The group also considered future options for developing a strategic health information technology investment fund. We were hired to facilitate this multi-stakeholder process, which included regular meetings over an eight-month period. Click here for the Stakeholder Process website. Healthy Androscoggin (2008) Healthy Androscoggin is dedicated to improving the health of all Androscoggin County citizens through collaborative planning, community action, education and prevention. We facilitated a board retreat where directors reviewed recent accomplishments and built consensus around a strategic direction. Healthy Androscoggin (2009) Healthy Androscoggin is dedicated to improving the health of all Androscoggin County citizens through collaborative planning, community action, education and prevention. We were hired to facilitate two staff retreats, which included team building and other activities. Healthy Androscoggin (2010) Healthy Androscoggin is dedicated to improving the health of all Androscoggin County citizens through collaborative planning, community action, education and prevention. We have been hired to facilitate and provide a complete report of the annual retreat of the board and staff, which will focus on strategic planning. This is our third time working with this successful group. Healthy Maine Partnership, City of Portland (2007) The City of Portland received a significant Healthy Maine Partnership grant from the Maine Center for Disease Control to provide public health and related services. We were hired to facilitate a board retreat to discuss how Healthy Portland will transition into a larger initiative. We also prepared a complete report of the meeting. Home Care Alliance of Maine (2006-Fall) The Home Care Alliance of Maine, a statewide trade association, hired us to plan and facilitate their annual meeting of members. During a full-day meeting, we discussed the organization's membership and dues structure, committee structures, and related issues. We also prepared a complete report of the meeting. Home Care Alliance of Maine (2006-late Winter) This statewide non-profit, consisting of home health care providers, hospice providers and other health care organizations, hired us to facilitate two meetings in order to develop recommendations to the state on how to ease administrative burdens on health care providers. Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (2005) This non-profit advocacy group hired us to facilitate a strategic planning retreat in two parts. In October, 2004 we helped them analyze their strengths and weaknesses and develop consensus on a vision. In early 2005, we helped them establish strategic directions and specific action plans. Maine Assembly on School-Based Health Care (2006) On beautiful Mount Desert Island we spent a day with the board of directors of the Maine Assembly on School-Based Health Care. We helped the group decide their strategic priorities for the next five years and create a vision for school-based health centers, literally, on a huge 4’x8’ piece of paper! Maine Assembly on School-based Health Care (2007) The goal of the Maine Assembly on School-based Health Care (MeASBHC) is to improve children’s success by keeping them healthy, in school and ready to learn. MeASBHC supports the development and operations of school based health care services to accomplish this goal. We have worked with them before and they recently hired us again to help them survey stakeholders and finalize their strategic plan. Maine Center for Disease Control (2005) We were hired by the Maine Center for Disease Control (formerly the Bureau of Public Health) and the Muskie School for Public Service to facilitate four break-out sessions for a full-day, statewide conference on Pandemic Flu Planning for Communities. Maine Center for Disease Control (2007) The Maine Center for Disease Control issued an RFP for statewide delivery of public health services. They convened a bidders conference in Augusta and asked Good Group Decisions to provide four facilitators for regional break-out sessions. Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (2009) We were hired to provide several facilitators for a statewide conference designed to develop a plan to vaccinate Maine residents against the H1N1 virus, also known as Swine Flu.
Maine Dental Association (2010) In March, the Maine Dental Association hosted the New England Dental Leadership Conference, a gathering of dentists from the six New England states that will focus on the question, “What will the practice of dentistry look like in 2020?” We were hired to facilitate this 3-day conference. Maine Department of Health and Human Services (2005) The Maine Department of Health and Human Services was awarded a grant to develop a statewide Oral Health Improvement Plan in collaboration with stakeholders ranging from regulators to providers. We were sub-contracted by Medical Care Development to facilitate meetings of Maine's Oral Health Advisory Committee, to facilitate a statewide conference, and to write the resulting plan. Maine Department of Health and Human Services (2006) In moving to a system of Managed Care for mental health and substance abuse treatment services, the Maine Department of Health and Human Services wanted to be sure and hear from stakeholders about what was working well and what should be improved. In collaboration with the Muskie School for Public Service, we were asked to facilitate and report on a series of 14 public meetings designed to gather input. We also established a website for the benefit of the stakeholders. Maine Health Access Foundation (2006) The Maine Health Access Foundation convened 200 people at the Augusta Civic Center to discuss integration of Maine's mental, behavioral, and physical health systems. We provided several facilitators to manage the break-out sessions. Maine Infection Prevention Collaborative (2010) Made up of representatives from each of Maine’s 39 hospitals, the Maine Infection Prevention Collaborative (MIPC) seeks to prevent and control health care associated infections. We have been hired to facilitate regular 5-hour meetings of the Collaborative. The MIPC makes decisions by consensus. Maine Nutrition Network (2006) At beautiful Maple Hill Farm in Hallowell, we facilitated a full day conference for the members of the Maine Nutrition Network. About a hundred people attended. We helped the group decide their mission and specific areas of work for the next few years, along with how they should best be structured to achieve their goals. As follow up, we helped them write their strategic plan to be finalized at their annual meeting. Maine Osteopathic Association (2009) The organization, which is dedicated to providing professional education and services for the osteopathic profession to ensure the quality of osteopathic care to the people of Maine, hired us to facilitate a full-day retreat of the Board of Directors focusing on strategic planning. Following the retreat, we prepared a report.
Maine Primary Care Association (2008) The Maine Primary Care Association works to strengthen and sustain Maine’s Primary Care Safety Net, providing high quality health care to underserved populations in Maine. We facilitated a board retreat, and prepared a complete meeting report that will serve as the basis of a strategic plan. Maine Primary Care Association (2009) For over 25 years, the Maine Primary Care Association has worked to strengthen and sustain Maine’s Primary Care Safety Net. We were hired to facilitate two meetings among representatives of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) to discuss how to more effectively communicate medical information. We also prepared reports of each of the meetings. Medical Care Development (2009) Initially administered by Medical Care Development, the Casco Bay Coalition for Youth Substance Abuse Prevention launched a program called 21 Reasons. They hired us to facilitate an important organizational meeting that, among other things, resulted in renaming the program Casco Bay Can.
Medical Rehabilitation Associates (2009-2010) This highly successful partnership of physicians with offices in Brunswick, Lewiston and Augusta hired us to help them better define roles and governance procedures.
Mercy Hospital (2007) The managers and directors of the Patient Care Services division of Mercy Hospital hired us to facilitate a two-day off-site staff retreat at which we did team building exercises, expertiential learning, and strategic planning. Muskie School of the University of Southern Maine (2007) We were hired by the Integrated Core Injury Prevention and Control Program of the Muskie School of the University of Southern Maine to facilitate a full-day, statewide conference on how to reduce the misuse of perscription drugs. We provided multiple facilitators for the day and also prepared a report of the conference. North Country Associates (2005) North Country Associates is a leading provider of post acute Medicare skilled nursing, rehabilitation and long term care in New England. This private corporation operates 20 facilities and has about 1600 employees. They hired us to work with their senior management team over a six month period to improve communications and overall productivity, and help establish their strategic direction. North Country Associates (2006) North Country Associates is a leading provider of post acute Medicare skilled nursing, rehabilitation and long term care in New England. This private corporation operates 20 facilities and has about 1600 employees. They hired us to work at specific facilities to improve communications and effectiveness among department heads. PATCH (Planned Approach to Community Health) (2007-Fall) The Waterville area PATCH (Planned Approach to Community Health) received a significant Healthy Maine Partnership grant from the Maine Center for Disease Control to provide public health and related services. We were hired to facilitate a board retreat to discuss how PATCH will transition into its new role. We also prepared a summary report of the meeting. PATCH (Planned Approach to Community Health) (2007-Spring) The Waterville area PATCH (Planned Approach to Community Health) has hired us to help them establish an optimal institutional arrangement for responding to a public health delivery RFP recently issued by Maine Center for Disease Conrol. We facilitated a meeting of the Board of Directors and other key players and prepared a meeting report. Pen Bay Healthcare Foundation (2010) We have been hired to facilitate a meeting among five island health centers: Northhaven, Vinalhaven, Islesboro, Monhegan, and Matinicus. We will be using internet video technology. We will discuss improved collaboration and sharing resources among the island health centers. Penobscot Community Health Care (2008) Penobscot Community Health Care is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving the 38 towns of greater Bangor. Its mission is to provide access, regardless of ability to pay, for people of the region to quality community health care services, and to promote access for all in Maine. We were hired to facilitate a retreat of board members that will launch the development of PCHC’s strategic plan. Portland Public Health (2008) The Public Health Division of the City of Portland hired us to help them develop a strategic plan. We interviewed key stakeholders and facilitated a series of management meetings that resulted in a prioritized list of activities to be done over the next three years. The plan contains specific performance measures with data presented graphically. Providence Service Corporation of Maine (2009) Providence Service Corporation of Maine, also known as Providence of Maine, is an organization specializing in nonresidential community-based services. We were hired to facilitate a strategic planning retreat with the management staff. Quality Review Committee (2005) The Quality Review Committee is a state-chartered group with responsibilities to review the quality of work that Elder Independence of Maine delivers to about 3,000 consumers of home-based care services throughout Maine. They hired us to facilitate a strategic planning session to re-consider their overall mission and scope of work. Quality Review Council (2005-2010) The Quality Review Council is established by state law to review homecare services provided by Elder Independence of Maine. The Council reviews quality reports and also works on short-term, high priority projects to improve home care. We have been retained to facilitate all regular meetings of the Council.
Redington-Fairview General Hospital (2008) We were engaged to facilitate a mission retreat by Redington-Fairview General Hospital, an independent community hospital located in Skowhegan, Maine, that has provided quality, comprehensive health services to the residents of Somerset County since 1952. At the retreat we helped the organization develop a mission statement that is simple, understandable and compels enthusiasm. Reducing Youth Obesity in Maine (2010) The Daniel Hanley Center for Health Leadership was asked by Health Policy Partners of Maine to convene a forum that would bring together key leaders representing a wide range of interests. We’ve been hired to facilitate a full-day discussion among educators, private employers, and environmentalists to develop strategies to reduce youth obesity in Maine. Sacopee Valley Health Center (2009) We were hired to facilitate a board retreat to develop a new strategic plan for the Sacopee Valley Health Center, located in Porter, Maine, which has been delivering comprehensive health care services to the Sacopee Valley since 1976. In preparation for the retreat, we tabulated and analyzed the results of a community-wide survey conducted by the Health Center. We also prepared a report of the board retreat. Shalom House (2010) Shalom House provides an array of community based services and quality housing for adults living with severe mental illness in Maine. We have been hired to facilitate a full-day retreat, among staff from all over the state, focused on team building and improving productivity and efficiency. St. Joseph’s Manor (2007) St. Joseph’s Manor offers a range of nursing home services including assisted living, skilled nursing care, and adult day care. This private, non-profit provides a true continuum of care at its beautiful Portland facility. We were hired to help the board analyze their current situation and establish strategic goals. United Way of Mid Coast Maine (2009) This United Way, based in Bath, hired us to facilitate discussion among providers of mental health service in the Mid Coast region in order to identify gaps in service and to plan for improved service delivery in the future.
VNA Home Health Care (2007) VNA Home Health Care is a major provider of home health and hospice care affiliated with Mercy Hospital and serving families throughout Cumberland and northern York Counties since 1921. We facilitated a multi-day leadership retreat at Camp Kieve on the shores of Damariscotta Lake where we worked on strategic planning and team building. Volunteers of America Northern New England (2009) Volunteers of America Northern New England hosted a statewide conference to confront the problem of misuses of prescription drugs. Participants from the medical, pharmacology, law enforcement, substance abuse treatment & prevention, and mental health fields discussed how medicine moves from health to hazard, what can be done to intervene in the diversion process and what some communities across Maine are doing to tackle this growing concern. We were hired to facilitate the conference as well as follow-up meetings with the leaders to define next steps. Nonprofit
AARP (2009) Using a unique approach to problem solving, AARP hired us to facilitate a meeting among stakeholders to discuss a proposed legislative bill (LD 1078) that would reorganize the delivery of state-supported long term care. Held at the State House in Augusta, the meeting included the Commissioner and other top officials from the Department of Health and Human Services, legislators, and representatives from several organizations with an interest in long term care. American Psychiatric Association Area One Council (2009) The American Psychiatric Association Area One Council, representing psychiatrists in the six New England states as well as Canada’s Eastern provinces and Quebec, engaged us to facilitate two meetings at its spring conference in Boston. We also prepared reports of the meetings. Androscoggin Land Trust (2008) The Androscoggin Land Trust is dedicated to protecting, through land conservation and stewardship, the important natural areas, traditional landscapes, and outdoor experience along the central Androscoggin River corridor. We were hired to facilitate a full day retreat of the board of directors to assess the current organizational capacity and environmental trends, develop strategic goals, and refine the organization’s mission. In addition to facilitating the meeting, we also prepared a complete report that will serve as the basis for a strategic plan. Avesta Housing (2009) Avesta Housing is the largest non-profit housing agency in Maine. It promotes and provides housing opportunities primarily for Southern Maine people in need and helps them access other needed services. They hired us to deliver training in effective face-to-face communication for their entire staff. Belfast Area Ecovillage (2007) We helped this group of energetic, ambitious people work on starting a new cohousing community in the Belfast, Maine area. Initial tasks include deciding organizational structure, decision making rules, and an initial work plan. Blue Hill Center for Holistic Health (2004) This brand new and ambitious board of directors hired Craig to run a kick-off board retreat at which the group made several decisions about how they will operate as a board and approved a draft vision statement for their organization. The board operates by consensus, so there was a fair amount of time devoted to learning consensus process and conflict management. Boston Children’s Museum (2010) The mission of the Boston Children’s Museum, founded in 1913, is to help children understand and enjoy the world in which they live. We were hired to provide training on how to have effective meetings and time management. Bowdoin College (2008-Fall) We were hired by Bowdoin College to work with staff of an administrative office to improve communications and team effectiveness. We conducted advance interviews with all staff within that office, facilitated a half-day retreat and prepared a summary report. Bowdoin College (2008-Spring) We were hired to conduct a professional development luncheon among all the Student Affairs staff of Bowdoin College. We reviewed basic mediation principles and discussed specific case studies. Bowdoin College (2010) Bowdoin is a nationally renowned college of liberal arts and science in Maine. We’ve been hired by the Student Activities Office to facilitate a full-day staff retreat. Breakwater School (2007) The Breakwater School is an independent pre-school and elementary school located in Portland, Maine. Founded in 1956, Breakwater is private, non-denominational, and co-educational. They hired us to facilitate a short series of meetings among the board, parents, and faculty. Bridgton Recreation Advancement Group (2007) The Bridgton Recreation Advancement Group hired us to facilitate a public community forum to gather input on a newly proposed community recreation facility. We also prepared a complete report of the meeting. Camp Kieve and Wavus Camps (2005) Situated on opposite ends of Damariscotta Lake, the boards of directors of these camps engaged in seven months of discussions, which initially began as explorations on how to collaborate, but which resulted in a complete merger of the two organizations. With many details to work out, they jointly hired us to facilitate their meetings and bring them to a very satisfying win-win agreement. Center for Cultural Exchange (2007) The Center for Cultural Exchange is a not-for-profit community arts center with a mission of advancing cultural understanding through arts and education programs. Faced with some critical decisions about their future, the board hired us to facilitate a four-hour meeting to explore options and develop consensus. We also prepared a report of the meeting. CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) (2007) Having recently moved from Boston to Portland, CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) is the leading U.S. non-governmental international education organization. CIEE creates and administers programs that allow high school and university students and educators to study and teach abroad. CIEE management hired us to facilitate a multi-day retreat among regional directors from all over the country at a camp-on-a-lake setting. We worked through many issues, made several decisions and did some fun, team-building exercises. CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) (2008) Headquartered in Portland, Maine, CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) is the leading U.S. non-governmental international education organization. CIEE creates and administers programs that allow high school and university students and educators to study and teach abroad. As in 2007, CIEE management hired us to facilitate a multi-day retreat among regional directors from all over the country at which they worked through many issues, made decisions, and engaged in fun team-building exercises. Following the retreat, we prepared a summary report. CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) (2009) Headquartered in Portland, Maine, CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) is the leading U.S. non-governmental international education organization. CIEE creates and administers programs that allow high school and university students and educators to study and teach abroad. For the third year in a row, CIEE management hired us to facilitate a multi-day retreat among regional directors from all over the country to work through many issues, make decisions, and engage in fun team-building exercises. Following the retreat, we prepared a report. CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) (2010) Headquartered in Portland, Maine, CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) is the leading U.S. non-governmental international education organization. CIEE creates and administers programs that allow high school and university students and educators to study and teach abroad. For the fourth year in a row, CIEE management has hired us to facilitate a multi-day retreat among regional directors from all over the country to work through many issues, make decisions, and engage in fun team-building exercises. We will prepare a report following the retreat. Community Clinical Services (2009) Part of St. Mary's Health System in Lewiston, Maine, Community Clinical Services is a Federally Qualified Health Center with 19 different practice sites. We were hired to facilitate a strategic planning retreat of the board of directors. Creative Work Systems (2007) Creative Work Systems seeks to enable persons with cognitive, physical and psychiatric handicaps to increase or regain self-sufficiency through employment, independent living support, and personal skills development and social/interpersonal opportunities. They hired us to conduct a series of two-hour training sessions for managers based on The Seven Challenges of Cooperative Communications, by Denis Rivers. DFD Russell Medical Centers (2008) We facilitated a board retreat to develop a new three-year strategic plan for the DFD Russell Medical Centers (DFDRMC) in Leeds, Turner and Monmouth, an independent public/private partnership founded in 1975 to provide affordable and accessible health care to area residents. Eastern Maine Healthcare (2009) Eastern Maine Healthcare hired us to facilitate internal management discussions in order to improve collaboration and service delivery.
Eastport for Pride (2004) This non-profit organization, with a mission to revitalize downtown Eastport, hired us to individually interview each board member and conduct a full-day strategic planning retreat to address their most challenging issues. Elder Independence of Maine (EIM) (2007) Elder Independence of Maine (EIM) is Maine's Home Care Coordination Agency. A division of SeniorsPlus, EIM connects people throughout the state of Maine with home care services. We were hired to conduct a retreat for senior management to improve meeting efficiencies and role definition. Elder Issues Partnership (2004-2010) A large coalition of organizations that serve elderly in various ways has banded together in a coalition and retains us to facilitate their monthly meetings which always consist of exchanging information about state and federal policy initiatives and often include outside speakers on topics of interest. In addition, we provide complete secretariat services which includes meeting write up and distribution, handling all correspondance, managing a website and list serve on behalf of the group, and arranging meeting facilities. The group tries to influence state policy to better serve elderly people. Enterprise Maine (2006) Enterprise Maine, now called the Growth Council of Oxford Hills, hired us to work on several projects over the course of a whole year. We helped the Lake Region Development Council establish a strategic plan and organizational structure to achieve it. We helped the Naples Downtown Group get organized to serve as an advocate for the downtown. We helped the Enterprise Maine board develop a new strategic plan. We helped to build institutional capacity among the Oxford Hills Business Development Network and the Lakes Region Business Development Network. We helped to organize the region's modular building companies into a Building Trades Workforce Collaborative designed to result in benefits for the partner companies and for the entire region. And we facilitated a public forum in Downtown Norway to gather public input on how to spend Community Development Block Grant funds. Environment Northeast (2008) Environment Northeast (ENE) is a non-profit organization that researches and advocates innovative policies that tackle environmental challenges while promoting sustainable economies. We were hired to facilitate a board retreat and a staff retreat in order to help establish a strategic direction and improve effectiveness. We prepared summary reports for both retreats. Farmington Downtown Association (2009-2010) We have been hired by the Farmington Downtown Association to develop plans for assessing parking supply and demand as well as consumer preferences for retail opportunities. Downtown Farmington was recently designated a member of the Main Street Network, a new program of the Maine Downtown Center.
Fractionation Development Center (2006) This brand new non-profit corporation hired us to facilitate a full-day board retreat and prepare a resulting strategic plan. Franklin Healthy Community Coalition (2007) The Healthy Community Coalition promotes health and well-being in Franklin county, Maine and surrounding towns. They hired us to facilitate a half-day retreat of the Board of Directors to establish priorities. Greater Portland Landmarks (2006-early Winter) This small yet highly effective nonprofit promotes preservation and revitalization of historic buildings, neighborhoods, and landscapes and encourages high-quality new architecture in Portland and surrounding communities. They hired us to help board members implement a new committee structure and related board development. Greater Portland Landmarks (2006-late Winter) This small non-profit promotes preservation and revitalization of historic buildings, neighborhoods, and landscapes and encourages high-quality new architecture in Portland and surrounding communities. They hired us to help them better define staff roles and improve overall efficiency. Greater Portland Landmarks (2006-Spring) We were engaged to facilitate a Board Retreat for Greater Portland Landmarks, a nonprofit oprganization that promotes the preservation and revitalization of historic buildings, neighborhoods, and landscapes and encourages high-quality new architecture to enhance the livability and economic vitality of Portland and surrounding communities. We also prepared notes of the meeting. Greater Portland Landmarks (2007) Greater Portland Landmarks promotes preservation and revitalization of historic buildings, neighborhoods, and landscapes and encourages high-quality new architecture to enhance the livability and economic vitality of Portland and surrounding communities. They hired us to run a staff retreat focused on developing their annual work plan. Greater Portland Landmarks (2008) Greater Portland Landmarks promotes preservation and revitalization of historic buildings, neighborhoods, and landscapes and encourages high-quality new architecture to enhance the livability and economic vitality of Portland and surrounding communities. They hired us to facilitate a board retreat. Greater Portland Landmarks (2009) Greater Portland Landmarks promotes preservation and revitalization of historic buildings, neighborhoods, and landscapes and encourages high-quality new architecture to enhance the livability and economic vitality of Portland and surrounding communities. For the second year in a row we were hired to facilitate their annual board retreat. Green Building Council (2007) This young non-profit is Maine’s foremost coalition of leaders from across the building industry working to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. They hired us to help them establish their strategic direction. We facilitated a full-day retreat of the board and prepared a report which is serving as the basis for their strategic plan. Green Building Council (2008) This energetic and rapidly growing non-profit is Maine’s foremost coalition of leaders from across the building industry working to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. Like the year before, they hired us again to facilitate a full-day board retreat and prepare a complete report. Green Building Council (2010) The Maine Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council is Maine’s foremost coalition of leaders from across the building industry working to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. For the third time, they hired us to facilitate a full-day board retreat and prepare a complete report. Gulf of Maine Research Institute (2007) The Gulf of Maine Research Institute convened ground fishermen from Cape Cod to the coastal Maine to discuss new, innovative ways to manage the fishery. With the hope of achieving consensus on recommendations to the New England Fisheries Management Council, we were hired to facilitate the discussions and prepare a report of conclusions. Gulf of Maine Research Institute (2008-Fall) Regulations for groundfishing in the Gulf of Maine and on Geroges Bank are changing to allow fishermen to gather in cooperative "sectors." How will the catch be monitored and reported under the new system? We were hired to facilitate discussions among fishing trade associations, regulators, scientists, and environmental groups to explore consensus on monitoring and reporting methods. Gulf of Maine Research Institute (2008-Summer) Regulations for groundfishing in the Gulf of Maine and on Geroges Bank are changing to allow fishermen to gather in cooperative "sectors." How will the catch be monitored and reported under the new system? We were hired to facilitate discussions among fishing trade associations, regulators, scientists, and environmental groups to explore consensus on monitoring and reporting methods. We also prepared a complete report of the meeting, which was submitted directly to the New England Fisheries Management Council. H.O.P.E. (2008) "Healing Of Persons Exceptional". Since its inception in 1987, the non-profit H.O.P.E. has provided support for individuals facing illness and life challenges to find meaning, value and purpose in their lives. We were hired to facilitate a planning retreat. Habitat for Humanity for the Bath/Brunswick Area (2005) The Board of Directors of Habitat for Humanity for the Bath/Brunswick Area was poised to go to the next level of sophistication: from building 3 or 4 homes per year to building 5 to 7 homes per year. They hired us to facilitate a board retreat and prepare a report which defined the specific steps required to achieve their goals. Habitat for Humanity-Bath/Brunswick Area (2006) For the second year in a row, the Board of Directors of Habitat for Humanity for the Bath Brunswick Area hired us to facilitate their annual 2-day board retreat and update their strategic plan. HealthInfoNet (2010) HealthInfoNet, a non-profit organization was established in 2006 to develop a statewide electronic health information exchange (HIE) for Maine. As a result, Maine is about to become one of the first states in the nation to develop a statewide HIE. We were hired to facilitate a strategic planning retreat for the Board of Directors.
HealthInfoNet and Maine Quality Forum (2008) As a result of a recent legislative resolve, HealthInfoNet and the Maine Quality Forum jointly convened a multi-stakeholder group to study and make recommendations for creating and financing a fund to establish and sustain HealthInfoNet, a statewide digital clinical information network. The group also considered future options for developing a strategic health information technology investment fund. We were hired to facilitate this multi-stakeholder process, which included regular meetings over an eight-month period. Click here for the Stakeholder Process website. Healthy Androscoggin (2008) Healthy Androscoggin is dedicated to improving the health of all Androscoggin County citizens through collaborative planning, community action, education and prevention. We facilitated a board retreat where directors reviewed recent accomplishments and built consensus around a strategic direction. Healthy Androscoggin (2009) Healthy Androscoggin is dedicated to improving the health of all Androscoggin County citizens through collaborative planning, community action, education and prevention. We were hired to facilitate two staff retreats, which included team building and other activities. Healthy Androscoggin (2010) Healthy Androscoggin is dedicated to improving the health of all Androscoggin County citizens through collaborative planning, community action, education and prevention. We have been hired to facilitate and provide a complete report of the annual retreat of the board and staff, which will focus on strategic planning. This is our third time working with this successful group. Home Care Alliance of Maine (2006-Fall) The Home Care Alliance of Maine, a statewide trade association, hired us to plan and facilitate their annual meeting of members. During a full-day meeting, we discussed the organization's membership and dues structure, committee structures, and related issues. We also prepared a complete report of the meeting. Home Care Alliance of Maine (2006-late Winter) This statewide non-profit, consisting of home health care providers, hospice providers and other health care organizations, hired us to facilitate two meetings in order to develop recommendations to the state on how to ease administrative burdens on health care providers. Hydrogen Energy Center (2008) The Hydrogen Energy Center, an organization dedicated to advancing the transition to a renewable hydrogen economy through education, demonstration, and advocacy, engaged us to facilitate a strategic planning retreat of its board members. Isleboro Community Center (2009) We were engaged to facilitate a retreat for the board of directors of the Isleboro Community Center, which was on the verge of opening a new facility.
Kieve-Wavus Education, Inc. (2005) This newly formed organization, a merger of Camp Kieve and Wavus Camps, held its first board meeting over two days on the shores of Damariscotta Lake. We were hired to plan the agenda, facilitate the meetings, and prepare meeting reports. Kieve-Wavus Education, Inc. (2006-Fall) As they did six months ago, the board of directors of Kieve-Wavus Education, Inc. asked us to facilitate their full day board meeting. We also prepared a detailed meeting report. Kieve-Wavus Education, Inc. (2006-Spring) Again, we facilitated the annual meeting of the Kieve-Wavus Education, Inc. Trustees on the shores of Damariscotta Lake. L/A Arts (2010) L/A Arts increases awareness, appreciation and support of the arts in the Lewiston-Auburn area by offering programs in education, performance and community service. We were hired to facilitate a full day retreat of the staff and board focused on strategic planning. L/A Trails (2007) L/A Trails is a non-profit organization in Lewiston & Auburn that advocates for and helps create recreational trails. They hired us to plan and facilitate a board retreat focused on strategic planning. We also prepared a report of the meeting. Lake Region Development Council (2005) This day-long retreat on the shores of Sebago Lake included a mock "TV Talk Show," brainstorming what the organization should be known for, consensus on two primary areas of focus for the organization, and specific action plans for the near future with measurable objectives. We were hired by Enterprise Maine to facilitate the retreat and prepare a report. Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (2005) This non-profit advocacy group hired us to facilitate a strategic planning retreat in two parts. In October, 2004 we helped them analyze their strengths and weaknesses and develop consensus on a vision. In early 2005, we helped them establish strategic directions and specific action plans. Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (2010) Faced with difficult decisions on how to cut the state budget, legislative leaders asked organizations that provide elder services in Maine to consider how to find savings in the long-term care system. We were hired by the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) to facilitate this discussion.
Maine & Company (2007) Maine & Company, a non-profit corporation, provides free and confidential services to companies locating to or growing in Maine. The board of directors is comprised of senior executives from successful Maine companies, the president of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce and the commissioner of Maine's Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD). They hired us to facilitate a board session focused on establishing strategic direction and short term projects. Maine Assembly on School-Based Health Care (2006) On beautiful Mount Desert Island we spent a day with the board of directors of the Maine Assembly on School-Based Health Care. We helped the group decide their strategic priorities for the next five years and create a vision for school-based health centers, literally, on a huge 4’x8’ piece of paper! Maine Assembly on School-based Health Care (2007) The goal of the Maine Assembly on School-based Health Care (MeASBHC) is to improve children’s success by keeping them healthy, in school and ready to learn. MeASBHC supports the development and operations of school based health care services to accomplish this goal. We have worked with them before and they recently hired us again to help them survey stakeholders and finalize their strategic plan. Maine Association of Nonprofits (2010) The Maine Association of Nonprofits, representing over 700 nonprofit organizations in Maine, has hired us to facilitate a full day conference at Maple Hill Farm in Hallowell, to kick off an exploration of how to improve delivery of human services in Maine via nonprofits. We will also prepare a complete report of the meeting. Maine Audubon (2010) Maine Audubon works to conserve Maine’s wildlife and wildlife habitat by engaging people of all ages in education, conservation and action. We were hired to facilitate a series of seven meetings with the board of directors and senior staff to work on developing a brand identity for the organization. Maine Coast Heritage Trust (2008) Each year, Maine Coast Heritage Trust hosts the Maine Land Conservation Conference. The theme of 2008'S conference was Connecting Conservation and Communities. We facilitated the conference Idea Forum, a session designed to give colleagues in the field the opportunity to share and brainstorm new partnerships, financing mechanisms and other tools for land conservation in Maine. Maine Coast Protection Initiative (2004) The Land Trust Alliance, State Planning Office, NOAA, Maine Coast Heritage Trust and other organizations embarked on a three-year project to increase conservation lands along Maine's coast. They hired us to facilitate their meetings and help them establish a coalition of over thirty organizations and begin to develop their plan. Maine Community Foundation (2009) For more than 25 years, the Maine Community Foundation has been a leader in philanthropy in Maine. Its grants cover the full range of nonprofit undertakings, with a special focus in the areas of education, the environment, arts and humanities, and social and community services. In light of the changing economy and changing leadership at the Foundation, the Board hired us to help revise the organization’s strategic plan. Maine Dental Association (2010) In March, the Maine Dental Association hosted the New England Dental Leadership Conference, a gathering of dentists from the six New England states that will focus on the question, “What will the practice of dentistry look like in 2020?” We were hired to facilitate this 3-day conference. Maine Development Foundation (2005-Fall) Given their new leadership and substantial challenges in a changing marketplace, this statewide "champion of sustainable, long-term economic growth for Maine" hired us to plan and facilitate a full-day board meeting and prepare the meeting report. Maine Development Foundation (2005-Winter) As in previous years, we were hired by the Maine Development Foundation to research and author Measures of Growth 2005, the annual report of indicators of Maine's economic, community, and environmental well-being. The report is used by the governor, legislators, agency leaders, business leaders, and non-profits to assess the state's economic, demographic, and environmental trends. Maine Downtown Center (2008-2009) Van Buren is a small community on the St. John River in Northern Maine with a downtown that has been in decline over the past 40 years. Now designated a Main Street Maine downtown, community leaders are taking steps to reverse the trend. We have been hired by the Maine Downtown Center to help with strategic planning, downtown revitalization training, and related activities.
Maine Downtown Center (2008-Fall) We created an online resource library for the Maine Downtown Center to assist the organization in its mission of fostering downtown development that is dynamic and community-based, and that results in economic development, business growth, job creation, housing revitalization, historic preservation, and cultural enhancement. Maine downtowns of all sizes can access the downtown revitalization information from this online resource library.
Maine Downtown Center (2008-late Winter) We facilitated a full-day retreat of the Maine Downtown Center Advisory Council, a diverse group of leaders who lend advice on how to foster the vitality of Maine's precious downtowns. We helped them examine the past year's activities and establish priorities for the next year and years to come. Maine Downtown Center (2008-Spring) The Maine Downtown Center administers the National Main Street Program here in Maine. They hired us to work with Main Street organizations in both Skowhegan and Livermore Falls. In Skowhegan, we interviewed all members of the board, and facilitated a full-day board retreat to work on organizational development issues. In Livermore Falls, we facilitated a full-day retreat that will result in a strategic plan. Maine Downtown Center (2009-Fall) We participated in resource teams assembled by the Maine Downtown Center to visit and advise two Maine Street Communities, Sanford and Rockland. Other team members included experts in historic preservation, economic development, and promotions. Our role on the team was to focus on organizational development issues. Each visit consisted of three days on-site and the preparation of a written report. In addition, Craig provided training to the Organizational Committee of Rockland Main Street.
Maine Downtown Center (2009-Spring) The Maine Downtown Center’s mission is to foster downtown development that is dynamic and community-based, and results in economic development, business growth, job creation, housing revitalization, historic preservation, and cultural enhancement. For the second year in a row the Maine Downtown Center hired us to facilitate a strategic planning retreat of its Advisory Council. We also prepared a summary report of the meeting. Maine Environmental Education Association (2006) This volunteer collaborative of organizations and individuals who promote and facilitate environmental education hired us to facilitate their full-day board retreat intended to result in a strategic plan. Maine Environmental Funders Network (2007) A joint project of the Maine Community Foundation and Maine Philanthropy Center, the Environmental Funders Network helps to identify and create ways to improve and sustain Maine's natural environment. We were hired to facilitate a full-day strategic planning meeting of the board of directors. Maine Environmental Funders Network (2008) The Environmental Funders Network (EFN), an alliance of Maine-based foundations with environmental interests, helps to identify and create ways to improve and sustain Maine’s natural environment. We were hired to facilitate two meetings which explored potential collaborations around the theme of "Quality of Place." Members discussed how the environmental philanthropic community can work together to improve the quality of Maine’s environment. Maine Environmental Funders Network (2009) The Environmental Funders Network, an alliance of Maine-based foundations with environmental interests, helps to identify and create ways to improve and sustain Maine’s natural environment. We were hired to facilitate another meeting in the group's continuing exploration of how to collaborate around the theme of "Quality of Place." Maine Environmental Funders Network (2010) We were hired to facilitate a strategic planning retreat for this coalition of environmental philanthropists. As a joint project of the Maine Community Foundation and Maine Philanthropy Center, the Environmental Funders Network helps to identify and create ways to improve and sustain Maine's natural environment.
Maine Global Warming Action Coalition (2008) The Maine Global Warming Action Coalition is administered by the Natural Resources Council of Maine and consists of twenty nonprofit organizations concerned with global warming. They came together to discuss a common agenda and how best to work with each other. In addition to facilitating a meeting, we also helped with an advance survey of all coalition members and we prepared a summary report. Maine Health Access Foundation (2006) The Maine Health Access Foundation convened 200 people at the Augusta Civic Center to discuss integration of Maine's mental, behavioral, and physical health systems. We provided several facilitators to manage the break-out sessions. Maine Housing and Building Materials Exchange (2007) The Maine Housing and Building Materials Exchange benefits low income families and the environment by providing new and reusable building materials at an affordable price. They hired us to facilitate two half-day meetings of the board of directors which resulted in a written strategic plan. Maine Interfaith Power and Light (2007) Inspired by diverse faith perspectives, Maine Interfaith Power and Light works to protect the natural world from climate change by engaging the faith communities and people of Maine in energy conservation and the use of clean, renewable energy. They hired us to work with the Executive Committee and Board to improve board operations and establish strategic direction. Maine Interfaith Power and Light (2008) Inspired by diverse faith perspectives, Maine Interfaith Power and Light works to protect the natural world from climate change by engaging the faith communities and people of Maine in energy conservation and the use of clean, renewable energy. They hired us to help the board establish strategic direction and work on specific issues. Maine Interfaith Power and Light (2009) Inspired by diverse faith perspectives, Maine Interfaith Power and Light works to protect the natural world from climate change by engaging the faith communities and people of Maine in energy conservation and the use of clean, renewable energy. They hired us to facilitate the board's annual strategic planning retreat. We also prepared a report outlining the new strategic direction and the board's work on specific issues. Maine Jewish Film Festival (2007) The Maine Jewish Film Festival is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide a forum for the presentation of films to enrich, educate and entertain a diverse community about the Jewish experience. The Board of Directors of hired us to plan and facilitate a board retreat focused on strategic direction and definition of rolses and responsibilities. We also prepared the meeting report. Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (2008) The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) hired us to facilitate a discussion among the MOFGA board of directors and the board of directors of MOFGA Certification Services, LLC, the wholly-owned subsidiary of MOFGA that certifies organic farmers on behalf of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (2010) The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) is the oldest and largest state organic organization in the country. MOFGA helps farmers, gardeners and rural communities build connections, increase local food production and protect the environment. Each year, volunteers and professionals moderate panel discussions at the Farmer to Farmer Conference put on by MOFGA. We have been hired to provide training for volunteer moderators. Maine Primary Care Association (2008) The Maine Primary Care Association works to strengthen and sustain Maine’s Primary Care Safety Net, providing high quality health care to underserved populations in Maine. We facilitated a board retreat, and prepared a complete meeting report that will serve as the basis of a strategic plan. Maine Primary Care Association (2009) For over 25 years, the Maine Primary Care Association has worked to strengthen and sustain Maine’s Primary Care Safety Net. We were hired to facilitate two meetings among representatives of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) to discuss how to more effectively communicate medical information. We also prepared reports of each of the meetings. Maine Sustainable Agriculture Society (2008) The Maine Sustainable Agriculture Society explores, develops and promotes agricultural systems and practices that allow Maine farmers to retain a greater share of consumer expenditures for farm products. We facilitated a half-day board retreat focused on strategic planning. In advance of the retreat, we interviewed each board member and prepared a report of the findings which informed the discussion around the future direction of the organization. Six months after the planning retreat, we facilitated a follow-up board retreat. Maine Transit Association (2009-2010) The Maine Transit Association is a coalition of public transit providers in Maine such as buses and ferries. They hired us to help them follow up on previous strategic planning that we did with the group. Maine Transit Association (2009-Spring) The Maine Transit Association, a coalition of public transit providers in Maine, engaged us to help them develop a strategic plan for the organization. We facilitated the meeting held to launch the effort and prepared a complete report. MCH (2010) MCH is a non-profit that enhances self-sufficiency and quality of life for individuals, primarily the elderly and disabled, in mid-coast Maine. They have hired us to facilitate a full-day, all-staff retreat designed to be a mix of fun, team building, and learning. MEA Benefits Trust (2010) The MEA Benefits Trust administers health insurance and other benefits for Maine Education Association. We have been hired to facilitate a full day retreat of the Board of Trustees to work on strategic planning and related issues. We are also conducting advance interviews with each of the trustees. Medical Care Development (2009) Initially administered by Medical Care Development, the Casco Bay Coalition for Youth Substance Abuse Prevention launched a program called 21 Reasons. They hired us to facilitate an important organizational meeting that, among other things, resulted in renaming the program Casco Bay Can.
Mercy Hospital (2007) The managers and directors of the Patient Care Services division of Mercy Hospital hired us to facilitate a two-day off-site staff retreat at which we did team building exercises, expertiential learning, and strategic planning. Merriconeag Waldorf School (2005-2009) In various capacities, including volunteer Board Chair, Craig has served as a consultant to the Merriconeag Waldorf School parents, faculty, and board members on issues including the school's overall growth and development and specific projects. Merriconeag Waldorf School (2010) Located in Freeport, Merriconeag is Maine’s largest Waldorf school, offering pre-K through high school education to almost 300 students. We have been hired to work with teachers and parents on organizational development issues. Methodist Conference Home (2009) The senior management team of the Methodist Conference Home, a non-profit organization based in Rockland that provides housing, transportation and other services, hired us to help them establish shared goals and clear roles and responsibilities.
Mid Coast Hunger Prevention (2009) The Mid Coast Hunger Prevention Program, a not-for-profit United Way agency committed to reducing hunger in the greater Brunswick area, hired us to facilitate a full-day strategic planning retreat and prepare a complete report. Mid-Coast Magnet (2009) Despite the growing number of green building practitioners, the actual transformation of Maine’s built environment towards improved energy efficiency is not happening fast enough. This is the challenge that Mid-Coast Magnet, a non-profit based in Rockland/Camden, confronted at the statewide Built Energy Forum in Augusta. We were hired to facilitate the break-out sessions of the conference. We also prepared the conference report. Mid-Coast Resource Development Center (2008) Craig delivered a keynote address entitled What’s Next? Same Old or New and Different? This fits with this year's annual conference theme: Come to Camp for Change. It was an interactive discussion of how we welcome change, or not. National Audubon Society (2010) Three organizations, National Audubon Society, Maine Audubon and Kieve-Wavus Education, Inc., have collectively hired us to facilitate discussions about the future of Hog Island, off the coast of Maine near Bremen. New England Forestry Foundation (2006) On the heels of two globally significant forest conservation projects, and related fundraising, the board of this sophisticated organization wanted to improve board engagement and be sure of where they were headed next. We facilitated two board meetings and helped them with strategic planning and organizational development. New England Forestry Foundation (2008) The New England Forestry Foundation is dedicated to providing for the conservation and ecologically sound management of privately owned forestlands in New England and beyond. We were hired to conduct a strategic planning board retreat. Northern Forest Canoe Trail (2010) The Northern Forest Canoe Trail is a 700-mile wilderness waterway in New York, Vermont, Quebec, New Hampshire and Maine. We were hired to work with businesses along the Maine section of the trail to design and develop packages for tourists, including specific itineraries. This project is supported by a federal Rural Business Enterprise Grant (RBEG) to promote economic development in the Northern Forest. Northern Forest Center (2008) The Northern Forest Center convened a two-day conference to advance recommendations of the sustainable economy initiative. One hundred people from Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and New York convened to develop consensus on top-priority activities to advance the Northern Forest economy in a sustainable manner. We were hired to facilitate the Regional Coordination and Advocacy Work Group. Opportunity Center of North Franklin County (2005) When Lauri toy manufacturing company closed its doors in Avon, Maine, it left behind a terrific facility which local community leaders are now rallying around. A non-profit corporation was formed to use the facility in innovative ways to prepare workers for new jobs in growing industries and to bring education, services, and culture to an area that has been previously underserved. CEI, in partnership with the Western Maine Sustainable Development Collaborative, hired us to help with strategic planning and organizational development. Opportunity Farm (2009) Opportunity Farm is a non-profit, social service organization in New Gloucester, Maine that provides safe, supportive, family-style homes for at-risk young people. On the eve of its 100th anniversary the leadership of Opportunity Farm convened a group of experts and stakeholders to give input on future strategic direction. We were hired to facilitate the discussion and prepare a report. Park Danforth (2007) Park Danforth provides high quality housing and services to seniors in Portland, Maine. The nonprofit corporation manages 160 apartments and a full complement of services and programs. They hired us to facilitate a two-day retreat of the board of directors and prepare a complete report of the meeting. PATCH (Planned Approach to Community Health) (2007-Fall) The Waterville area PATCH (Planned Approach to Community Health) received a significant Healthy Maine Partnership grant from the Maine Center for Disease Control to provide public health and related services. We were hired to facilitate a board retreat to discuss how PATCH will transition into its new role. We also prepared a summary report of the meeting. PATCH (Planned Approach to Community Health) (2007-Spring) The Waterville area PATCH (Planned Approach to Community Health) has hired us to help them establish an optimal institutional arrangement for responding to a public health delivery RFP recently issued by Maine Center for Disease Conrol. We facilitated a meeting of the Board of Directors and other key players and prepared a meeting report. Penobscot Community Health Care (2008) Penobscot Community Health Care is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving the 38 towns of greater Bangor. Its mission is to provide access, regardless of ability to pay, for people of the region to quality community health care services, and to promote access for all in Maine. We were hired to facilitate a retreat of board members that will launch the development of PCHC’s strategic plan. Pine Tree Society (2009) The Pine Tree Society provides Maine children and adults with disabilities the opportunities and the means to create better lives for themselves and their families. We were engaged to provide training for their staff in communications and in conflict prevention and resolution. Portland Symphony Orchestra (2008) The Portland Symphony Orchestra recognizes and takes seriously its role as a leading community educator about orchestral music. To be most effective, the orchestra wanted to nurture collaborative relationships with music educators and organizational partners from throughout the community. We were hired to facilitate a Music Educators and Organizational Partners Forum to brainstorm and prioritize ideas. REALIZE!Maine (2007-Fall) A program of the Maine Development Foundation, REALIZE!Maine connects young people (ages 20-40) with exceptional opportunities to live, work and play in Maine. We were hired to facilitate a half-day meeting of the Steering Committee focused on long term goals and establishing next year's work plan. REALIZE!Maine (2007-Spring) REALIZE!Maine, a program of the Maine Development Foundation, connects young people (ages 20-40) with exceptional opportunities to live, work and play in Maine. We were hired to facilitate a half-day meeting in the Governor's Cabinet Room that focused on roles and responsibilitiues of board members, leaders, and staff. Redington-Fairview General Hospital (2008) We were engaged to facilitate a mission retreat by Redington-Fairview General Hospital, an independent community hospital located in Skowhegan, Maine, that has provided quality, comprehensive health services to the residents of Somerset County since 1952. At the retreat we helped the organization develop a mission statement that is simple, understandable and compels enthusiasm. Sacopee Valley Health Center (2009) We were hired to facilitate a board retreat to develop a new strategic plan for the Sacopee Valley Health Center, located in Porter, Maine, which has been delivering comprehensive health care services to the Sacopee Valley since 1976. In preparation for the retreat, we tabulated and analyzed the results of a community-wide survey conducted by the Health Center. We also prepared a report of the board retreat. Shalom House (2006) Shalom House helps hundreds of people with serious mental illness each year by providing affordable housing where people can escape the stress of homelessness, hunger, and isolation. We were hired to deliver training on communications and conflict management styles. Shalom House (2007) Shalom House helps hundreds of people with serious mental illness each year by providing affordable housing where people can escape the stress of homelessness, hunger, and isolation. We were hired to deliver training to staff on stress reduction. Via a number of interactive games and activities, we discussed the causes of stress, reactions to stress (healthy and unhealthy) and developed a list of strategies to reduce stress. Shalom House (2010) Shalom House provides an array of community based services and quality housing for adults living with severe mental illness in Maine. We have been hired to facilitate a full-day retreat, among staff from all over the state, focused on team building and improving productivity and efficiency. St. Joseph’s Manor (2007) St. Joseph’s Manor offers a range of nursing home services including assisted living, skilled nursing care, and adult day care. This private, non-profit provides a true continuum of care at its beautiful Portland facility. We were hired to help the board analyze their current situation and establish strategic goals. The KNEADING Conference (2010) The annual KNEADING Conference brings farmers, bakers, and earth oven enthusiasts to Skowhegan to explore the art and science of growing, milling and baking local artisan breads. We are working behind the scenes with the steering committee on developing long term plans for the conference. Theater Project (2007) This community-oriented non-profit based in Brunswick, Maine hired us to facilitate a board meeting to discuss and make decisions about important organizational changes. The organization is striving to achieve a new level. In addition to facilitating the meeting, we also prepared a summary report. United Way of Greater Portland (2008) Given how much United Way staff are involved in facilitating meetings both internally and externally, they invested in a full day of meeting facilitation training. We discussed principles, techniques, and even did some fun role-playing. United Way of Greater Portland (2009) The United Way hired us to facilitate two meetings of the leadership of Preble Street and Wayside Soup Kitchen, two social service agencies in Portland, to define roles and responsibilities.
United Way of Mid Coast Maine (2009) This United Way, based in Bath, hired us to facilitate discussion among providers of mental health service in the Mid Coast region in order to identify gaps in service and to plan for improved service delivery in the future.
United Way of Mid-Maine (2007) This United Way affilliate based in Waterville, Maine hired us to facilitate their annual board retreat focused on establishing strategic direction and defing short-term projects. We also prepatred the meeting report. University of New England (2008) The Colleges of Arts and Sciences at the University of New England hired us to work on organizational issues within a particular department. Our work involved individual interviews followed by a full-day retreat. VNA Home Health Care (2007) VNA Home Health Care is a major provider of home health and hospice care affiliated with Mercy Hospital and serving families throughout Cumberland and northern York Counties since 1921. We facilitated a multi-day leadership retreat at Camp Kieve on the shores of Damariscotta Lake where we worked on strategic planning and team building. Volunteer Administrators of Midcoast Maine (2009) We were hired to lead a workshop on conflict prevention, management and resolution for 65 administrators of volunteers. Volunteers of America Northern New England (2007) For more than 100 years, Volunteers of America has partnered with individuals and organizations to serve those in need. Their goal is to transform lives and involve people in serving their community. Volunteers of America of Norhern New England hired us to facilitate a full-day staff retreat to set up a new program and make decisions about how it would be administered. Volunteers of America Northern New England (2008-Fall) Volunteers of America Northern New England hired us to facilitate a two-day conference called Fertile Ground, the purpose of which was to help communities look beyond traditional types of support to find solutions that will sustain social impact into the future. Good Group Decisions managed several facilitators for breakout sessions and also prepared a summary report of the conference. Click here for the Fertile Ground website. Volunteers of America Northern New England (2008-Fall) Working in partnership with government agencies, businesses, individuals, and other nonprofit organizations, this VOA chapter seeks to meet the most pressing social needs in the communities it serves in Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. We facilitated a day-long board retreat to establish the future vision of the organization, which will inform the staff in shaping an upcoming strategic planning effort. Volunteers of America Northern New England (2008-late Winter) For more than 100 years, Volunteers of America has partnered with individuals and organizations to serve those in need. Their goal is to transform lives and involve people in serving their community. Volunteers of America Northern New England hired us for two projects: to facilitate a meeting of Information Technology experts to advise them on future IT investments, and to facilitate meetings of the Senior Team. Volunteers of America Northern New England (2008-Spring & Summer) Leaders of community justice projects in Androscoggin, Lincoln and Sagadahoc Counties are collaborating to form a tri-county effort to promote safe communities by reducing crime and violence. We were hired by Volunteers of America to facilitate initial organizational meetings of the Tri-County Justice Project and prepare summary reports. Volunteers of America Northern New England (2009) Volunteers of America Northern New England hosted a statewide conference to confront the problem of misuses of prescription drugs. Participants from the medical, pharmacology, law enforcement, substance abuse treatment & prevention, and mental health fields discussed how medicine moves from health to hazard, what can be done to intervene in the diversion process and what some communities across Maine are doing to tackle this growing concern. We were hired to facilitate the conference as well as follow-up meetings with the leaders to define next steps. Western Maine Community Action (2010) Western Maine Community Action is a social service agency that has been providing energy, housing, health, and employment services for over 40 years to people living in the western mountain region of Maine. We were hired to facilitate and provide a complete report for a senior management staff retreat that will focus on strategic planning. Western Maine Sustainable Development Collaborative (2004) The Western Maine Sustainable Development Collaborative convened a regional conference on April 29, 2004 in Farmington to explore opportunities for sustainable development and promote an asset-based approach. The Collaborative hired us to moderate the conference and prepare a summary report. Western Maine Sustainable Development Collaborative (2005) Four organizations, Coastal Enterprises, Inc., Maine Center for Economic Policy, Mountain Counties Heritage Network, and the Western Mountains Alliance, joined together "to harness and encourage multiple efforts to achieve regional sustainable development that balances economic, environmental, and community values." For over two years, Craig facilitated their regular, half-day meetings. Western Mountains Alliance (2005) For the fourth year in a row, we were hired by the Western Mountains Alliance to deliver the opening session of Lead Western Maine. This is a 9-month leader training program organized around actual collaborative projects in Western Maine. Each year, the one-day training covers learning styles, what motivates leaders and followers, leadership characteristics, model meeting behaviors, and more. Western Mountains Alliance (2007) For the fifth year in a row, we were hired by the Western Mountains Alliance to deliver the opening session of Lead Western Maine. This is a 9-month leader training program organized around actual collaborative projects in Western Maine. Each year, the kick-off training covers learning styles, what motivates leaders and followers, leadership characteristics, model meeting behaviors, and more. Trade Associations and Coalitions
Alliance for Community Transportation (2010) This coalition of public transportation providers in southern New Hampshire hired us to facilitate a retreat focused on priorities for service delivery and how to work most effectively as a coalition. American Psychiatric Association Area One Council (2009) The American Psychiatric Association Area One Council, representing psychiatrists in the six New England states as well as Canada’s Eastern provinces and Quebec, engaged us to facilitate two meetings at its spring conference in Boston. We also prepared reports of the meetings. Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce (2008) The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Town of Bar Harbor and other key institutions, convened a series of meetings among business and community leaders to discuss innovative approaches to developing more business activity in the shoulder seasons. We were hired to facilitate these multi-stakeholder meetings and prepare the resulting summary reports. Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce (2007) The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Town of Bar Harbor and other key institutions, convened a meeting among business and community leaders to discuss innovative approaches to developing more business activity in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). We were hired to facilitate the meeting and prepare the resulting report of findings. Elder Issues Partnership (2004-2010) A large coalition of organizations that serve elderly in various ways has banded together in a coalition and retains us to facilitate their monthly meetings which always consist of exchanging information about state and federal policy initiatives and often include outside speakers on topics of interest. In addition, we provide complete secretariat services which includes meeting write up and distribution, handling all correspondance, managing a website and list serve on behalf of the group, and arranging meeting facilities. The group tries to influence state policy to better serve elderly people. Green Building Council (2007) This young non-profit is Maine’s foremost coalition of leaders from across the building industry working to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. They hired us to help them establish their strategic direction. We facilitated a full-day retreat of the board and prepared a report which is serving as the basis for their strategic plan. Green Building Council (2008) This energetic and rapidly growing non-profit is Maine’s foremost coalition of leaders from across the building industry working to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. Like the year before, they hired us again to facilitate a full-day board retreat and prepare a complete report. Green Building Council (2010) The Maine Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council is Maine’s foremost coalition of leaders from across the building industry working to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. For the third time, they hired us to facilitate a full-day board retreat and prepare a complete report. Home Care Alliance of Maine (2006-Fall) The Home Care Alliance of Maine, a statewide trade association, hired us to plan and facilitate their annual meeting of members. During a full-day meeting, we discussed the organization's membership and dues structure, committee structures, and related issues. We also prepared a complete report of the meeting. Home Care Alliance of Maine (2006-late Winter) This statewide non-profit, consisting of home health care providers, hospice providers and other health care organizations, hired us to facilitate two meetings in order to develop recommendations to the state on how to ease administrative burdens on health care providers. Maine Assembly on School-Based Health Care (2006) On beautiful Mount Desert Island we spent a day with the board of directors of the Maine Assembly on School-Based Health Care. We helped the group decide their strategic priorities for the next five years and create a vision for school-based health centers, literally, on a huge 4’x8’ piece of paper! Maine Assembly on School-based Health Care (2007) The goal of the Maine Assembly on School-based Health Care (MeASBHC) is to improve children’s success by keeping them healthy, in school and ready to learn. MeASBHC supports the development and operations of school based health care services to accomplish this goal. We have worked with them before and they recently hired us again to help them survey stakeholders and finalize their strategic plan. Maine County Commissioner's Association (2007) We planned and facilitated a full-day retreat of the Maine County Commissioner's Association which consists of County Commissioners and Administrators from thoughout Maine. The retreat resulted in several key decisions about the organization's strategic direction and specific tasks to be done. Maine Dental Association (2010) In March, the Maine Dental Association hosted the New England Dental Leadership Conference, a gathering of dentists from the six New England states that will focus on the question, “What will the practice of dentistry look like in 2020?” We were hired to facilitate this 3-day conference. Maine Environmental Education Association (2006) This volunteer collaborative of organizations and individuals who promote and facilitate environmental education hired us to facilitate their full-day board retreat intended to result in a strategic plan. Maine Environmental Funders Network (2007) A joint project of the Maine Community Foundation and Maine Philanthropy Center, the Environmental Funders Network helps to identify and create ways to improve and sustain Maine's natural environment. We were hired to facilitate a full-day strategic planning meeting of the board of directors. Maine Environmental Funders Network (2008) The Environmental Funders Network (EFN), an alliance of Maine-based foundations with environmental interests, helps to identify and create ways to improve and sustain Maine’s natural environment. We were hired to facilitate two meetings which explored potential collaborations around the theme of "Quality of Place." Members discussed how the environmental philanthropic community can work together to improve the quality of Maine’s environment. Maine Environmental Funders Network (2009) The Environmental Funders Network, an alliance of Maine-based foundations with environmental interests, helps to identify and create ways to improve and sustain Maine’s natural environment. We were hired to facilitate another meeting in the group's continuing exploration of how to collaborate around the theme of "Quality of Place." Maine Environmental Funders Network (2010) We were hired to facilitate a strategic planning retreat for this coalition of environmental philanthropists. As a joint project of the Maine Community Foundation and Maine Philanthropy Center, the Environmental Funders Network helps to identify and create ways to improve and sustain Maine's natural environment.
Maine Global Warming Action Coalition (2008) The Maine Global Warming Action Coalition is administered by the Natural Resources Council of Maine and consists of twenty nonprofit organizations concerned with global warming. They came together to discuss a common agenda and how best to work with each other. In addition to facilitating a meeting, we also helped with an advance survey of all coalition members and we prepared a summary report. Maine Nutrition Network (2006) At beautiful Maple Hill Farm in Hallowell, we facilitated a full day conference for the members of the Maine Nutrition Network. About a hundred people attended. We helped the group decide their mission and specific areas of work for the next few years, along with how they should best be structured to achieve their goals. As follow up, we helped them write their strategic plan to be finalized at their annual meeting. Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (2008) The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) hired us to facilitate a discussion among the MOFGA board of directors and the board of directors of MOFGA Certification Services, LLC, the wholly-owned subsidiary of MOFGA that certifies organic farmers on behalf of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Maine Osteopathic Association (2009) The organization, which is dedicated to providing professional education and services for the osteopathic profession to ensure the quality of osteopathic care to the people of Maine, hired us to facilitate a full-day retreat of the Board of Directors focusing on strategic planning. Following the retreat, we prepared a report.
Maine Primary Care Association (2008) The Maine Primary Care Association works to strengthen and sustain Maine’s Primary Care Safety Net, providing high quality health care to underserved populations in Maine. We facilitated a board retreat, and prepared a complete meeting report that will serve as the basis of a strategic plan. Maine Primary Care Association (2009) For over 25 years, the Maine Primary Care Association has worked to strengthen and sustain Maine’s Primary Care Safety Net. We were hired to facilitate two meetings among representatives of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) to discuss how to more effectively communicate medical information. We also prepared reports of each of the meetings. Western Maine Sustainable Development Collaborative (2004) The Western Maine Sustainable Development Collaborative convened a regional conference on April 29, 2004 in Farmington to explore opportunities for sustainable development and promote an asset-based approach. The Collaborative hired us to moderate the conference and prepare a summary report. Western Maine Sustainable Development Collaborative (2005) Four organizations, Coastal Enterprises, Inc., Maine Center for Economic Policy, Mountain Counties Heritage Network, and the Western Mountains Alliance, joined together "to harness and encourage multiple efforts to achieve regional sustainable development that balances economic, environmental, and community values." For over two years, Craig facilitated their regular, half-day meetings. |
