As 2025 winds down, I’ve been reflecting on the remarkable impact Emerging Leaders United has made over the past 12 months. Together, this giving circle has:
- Hosted wonderful events including an inspiring panel, squash night, and several lively happy hours;
- Installed a brand-new Storywalk at Rivermeadow Nature Preserve in Westbrook;
- Grown membership by 26%, expanding our reach and impact;
- Invested $73,080 in four innovative programs supporting youth through arts, mental health, tutoring, out-of-school care, and more—ensuring more young people have what they need to thrive.
None of this would have been possible without you! We’re also grateful to our corporate partners whose support strengthens our mission: Diodes Incorporated, Systems Engineering, WEX, and our newest sponsor, MEMIC. I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together in 2026.
Let’s dive into the latest news from Emerging Leaders United.
Community Investments
Each year, ELU’s Investment Committee reviews applications from local nonprofits and directs your contributions where they will have the most impact. This year’s four community partners are supporting youth across Southern Maine—helping them succeed in school, life, and beyond.
- $25,000 to Our Place Portland – Youth Mentorship and Summer Camp
Engaging low-income, multilingual youth ages 5 to 9 in East Bayside through after-school groups, family advocacy, and community summer camps. - $19,040 to The Center for Grieving Children – Intercultural Peer Support Program
Supporting youth who recently moved to Maine from countries in crisis. - $19,040 to LearningWorks – After-School Program
Providing free, high-quality out-of-school programs for Pre-K through grade 5 students who need extra academic support. - $10,000 to Palaver Strings – Student Access Mentoring and Performance Initiative
Expanding early pathways to increase access to music education.
Want to get more involved and participate on a committee?
Message me!
Leading Through Community: How Engagement Builds Careers and Connections
In November, we hosted a vibrant panel conversation exploring how deepening our community engagement can enrich our lives and create a stronger, more vibrant Southern Maine.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and to our fantastic facilitator, Alex Gramling, and panelists: Libby Catania (Our Place – Portland), Amanda Roderick (Diodes Incorporated), Barrett Takesian (Portland Community Squash), and John Violette (mainelove).
We are also grateful to Diodes Incorporated for sponsoring the event and to Southern Maine Community College for hosting us on their beautiful campus.
Two Powerful Programs for Emerging Leaders
United Way of Southern Maine and Saterman Connect are partnering to offer two leadership programs for rising professionals, especially those stepping into management roles for the first time.
Rising Women Leaders
A four-session, live virtual program designed to equip women leaders with the tools, strategies, and community to lead with confidence.
Saterman Connect will donate $50 per registration to United Way of Southern Maine. More details are coming soon for a mid-February start.
Learn More & Register
Arrive. Leadership Academy
A practical, four-session program that gives new leaders a clear roadmap to becoming trusted, effective managers.
Use code LIVEUNITED for $190 off. Saterman Connect will donate $50 per registration to benefit United Way of Southern Maine.
Upcoming cohorts:
Happy New Year
During this giving season, one of the most powerful but simple things you can do is share Emerging Leaders United’s mission and impact with others. Please feel free to connect me with anyone who is interested in becoming a member! Businesses and individuals can also sponsor someone who is interested in the cause.
I wish you all a restful, happy holiday season with your friends and family, and look forward to seeing what we can accomplish in the new year. Stay tuned for news of ELU gatherings in early 2026!
Thank you to our sponsors!
