Maine program that assists K-12 students earn job credentials going national

Jobs for Maine's Graduates (JMG) has launched Generation US (GenUS), a national nonprofit created to bring Maine's proven career credentialing model to states across the country.

Craig Larrabee is Chief Executive Officer of Generation US,
a national nonprofit created to bring Maine's career
credentialing model to other U.S. states.
COURTESY PHOTO

Embedded in every Maine county, on every public community college and university campus, and serving more than 13,000 students annually, JMG has spent 30 years building a comprehensive response to the workforce and demographic pressures that GenUS can now deploy nationwide.

Maine is among the first states in the nation to face a shrinking college-age population and the national picture is heading in the same direction. Across the country, only 38 out of every 100 high school graduates ultimately earn a college degree, and employers in high-wage sectors including healthcare, manufacturing, and the skilled trades are actively revisiting degree requirements. The results of Maine's approach are measurable: according to a report by AIR, JMG graduates earn an average of $1,904 per quarter by age 19 – compared to $1,277 for their peers – and 53 percent are employed, versus 43 percent of non-JMG youth.

"Many states are facing the same demographic cliff: fewer young people, fewer workers, a talent pipeline that a four-year degree alone was never built to fill," said Craig Larrabee, CEO of GenUS. "Our model connects schools, employers, and colleges around shared outcomes and puts verifiable, employer-recognized credentials in the hands of every student, not just the ones headed to college. GenUS exists to make that proof actionable for every state that's ready."

Recognized in Maine's Economic Strategic Plan as a key driver of the state's future workforce, JMG operates nearly 150 programs in public schools, CTE centers, and postsecondary campuses statewide. At the core of the GenUS model is a competency-to-credential framework that enables students to build transferable skills and earn verifiable, employer-recognized credentials at every stage of their educational journey.

GenUS credentials are earned through applied work and human verification and are issued as portable digital badges recognized across Maine's community college and university systems. The model is designed to work within existing school structures, building lasting local educator capacity through a train-the-trainer approach so that the work endures beyond any single program or staff member.

As part of the launch, JMG and GenUS are convening education, business, and philanthropic leaders at L.L. Bean's headquarters in Freeport to create the 2030 Framework – a practical, nonpartisan policy brief for Maine's next governor, due to take office following the November 2026 election.

The 2030 Framework makes the case for what Maine has built, documents what is possible when schools, employers, and higher education align around shared outcomes, and lays out a ready-made agenda for workforce readiness that the next administration can act on from day one. It is the proof of concept for the work GenUS is now carrying into other states. 

"Credentials should be built on durable, real-life skills that can be demonstrated, enabling learners to easily indicate what they're capable of and lead to real opportunity," said Kimberley Acker Lipp, president and CEO of JMG. "That is our mission in Maine, and with building the 2030 Framework, our work here continues to ensure every Mainer has the pathway they need to achieve success."

To learn more about GenUS, visit https://genus.org, and to learn more about JMG, visit https://jmg.org/. <

Scholarships remain available for Maine students exploring future careers

By Ed Pierce

As the 2025-2026 school year winds down, area students are busy finalizing future plans beyond high school. But it is not too late to consider continuing their education at the next level or by earning a trade.

Scholarships to pursue college and skilled trade opportunities in Maine are still available and waiting for applicants.

Here are some scholarship programs seeking students from Maine.

Drug Rehab USA Scholarship

As Maine continues to face a growing shortage of mental health professionals, Drug Rehab USA is encouraging college students across the state to pursue careers in mental health through its annual Mental Health Scholarship program.

It is offering a $2,000 scholarship to students currently enrolled in accredited colleges and universities throughout the United States who are passionate about making a positive impact in the field of mental health. Students can learn more and apply at: https://drugrehabus.org/mental-health-scholarship/.

The scholarship comes at a critical time for Maine. According to recent reports, Maine is currently meeting only 14.4 percent of the need for mental health services, one of the lowest rates in New England. Additionally, an estimated 260,862 people in Maine live in communities that do not have enough mental health professionals available to meet demand.

Drug Rehab USA says these numbers highlight the urgent need to support the next generation of counselors, psychologists, therapists, psychiatric nurses, and social workers.

“Mental health care access continues to be a major challenge for families throughout Maine, especially in rural communities,” said a spokesperson for Drug Rehab USA. “By helping students pursue careers in mental health, we hope to play a small role in strengthening the future workforce and improving access to care.”

Applicants for the scholarship are encouraged to submit an essay, video, artwork, or other creative project explaining why they are pursuing a career in mental health and how they hope to positively impact others in the future.

Drug Rehab USA is a national addiction and mental health resource organization dedicated to connecting individuals and families with treatment resources, educational materials, and support services across the United States.

The Maine Public Relations Council Scholarship

The Maine Public Relations Council Scholarships awards two $1,000 scholarships to either a graduating high school senior interested in pursuing a career in a communications-related field of study and enrolled at an accredited Maine college or university, or to a college student currently enrolled in such a program.

These scholarship awards recognize outstanding academic achievement, career aspirations and relevant course, volunteer, or work experience in a communications related field.

To apply, visit https://meprcouncil.org/scholarships

Maine Blue Collar Scholarship

Following the completion of its 2026 scholarship review process, the Maine Blue Collar Scholarship Foundation (MBC) has announced a historic milestone: awarding more than $1 million in scholarships and toolships to Maine individuals pursuing careers in the skilled trades.

Since its founding in 2017, MBC has grown from a bold idea into one of Maine's most impactful workforce development initiatives, built entirely by volunteers and funded entirely by businesses and individuals who believe in the future of Maine’s trades. The milestone reflects both the growing demand for skilled trades workers and the statewide support behind the foundation’s mission.

MBC awards scholarships and toolships ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 to individuals entering careers across more than 20 trades, including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, welding, diesel technology, linework, heavy equipment, building construction, automotive technology, culinary arts, public safety, healthcare, and more. Awards help recipients purchase tools, pay for certifications, and begin careers without taking on significant debt.

“Our mission has always been about creating opportunities and removing barriers for people who want to build a future through hard work and skilled trades,” said Chrissi Moody, Executive Director of the Maine Blue Collar Scholarship Foundation. “Reaching more than one million dollars awarded is an incredible milestone that reflects the growing demand for tradespeople. These careers are essential to Maine’s future, and we’re proud to support the next generation entering the workforce.”

Recipients have come from more than 100 Maine communities, over 90 high schools, and all 27 of the state’s career and technical education schools, representing recent graduates, CTE program completers, and adult learners making career changes.

The foundation continues to partner with businesses, educators, contractors, unions, and workforce organizations throughout Maine to connect scholarship recipients with employment opportunities and long-term careers.

For more details about Maine Blue Collar scholarship opportunities or ways to support the foundation, visit mainebluecollar.com or email info@mai <

Chalk the Trail brings color to Windham with art, family fun, and community connection

By Masha Yurkevich

Families, artists and outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to gather in Windham on Sunday, May 17, for the annual Chalk the Trail event, a growing community tradition that transforms the Mountain Division Trail into a colorful outdoor art display.

Friends of the Mountain Division Trail and Windham Parks
and Recreation are hosting the annual 'Chalk the Trail' event
for the public on Sunday, May 17 to decorate the trail with
chalk art while learning more about the recreational trail
system. The family event runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the 
Gambo Soccer Fields in Windham. COURTESY PHOTO  

The free event is hosted by the Friends of the Mountain Division Trail and Windham Parks and Recreation and invites participants of all ages to decorate the trail with chalk art while learning more about the popular recreational trail system.

“Chalk the Trail was my idea in 2022, the idea stemmed from wanting a trail event that was easy to put on, low cost, and family friendly,” says Andrew Walton, Secretary for Friends of the Mountain Division Trail. “I came up with the idea and started it in Fryeburg. After two years of doing it there and seeing it be successful, I added a twin event in Windham. Windham is our busiest section of trail, with over 344 users per day last year. We will get updated numbers this year but expect the number to rise.”

The Mountain Division Trail itself has become an important recreational resource for residents across southern Maine. The trail is used year-round by walkers, runners, cyclists and families looking for a safe outdoor space to exercise and enjoy nature.

Because the trail connects multiple communities, events like Chalk the Trail help introduce new visitors to the area while encouraging residents to spend more time outdoors.

The Chalk the Trail event brings trail users to the trail for a very different reason than to walk or bike and is a great way to connect with community members and share their love for the trail.

Unlike many outdoor recreation events focused on athletics or competition, Chalk the Trail encourages creativity and community engagement. Participants use sidewalk chalk to create drawings, messages and artwork directly on the pavement while visitors walk or bike through the trail to admire the displays.

“Friends of the Mountain Division Trail educate event participants on the progress of the trail expansion and for those who are on the trail for the first time, we tell them where it goes and what amenities are along the way. Last year we saw well over 100 people participate in Fryeburg and Windham,” says Walton.

The event continues to grow along with the popularity of the trail, he said.

“Chalk the Trail is our main event; it is needed to bring the community together on the trail and educate them on everything Mountain Division Trail,” Walton says.

The event has changed slightly over the years by moving the start time to a later hour to allow more people to attend. Since its inception, the number of participants has doubled, and this is the fourth year for the Windham Chalk the Trail.

Friends of the Mountain Division Trail and Windham Parks and Recreation Department are the main hosts of Chalk the Trail.

“Parks and Rec do a fantastic job assisting with parking and planning the event,” says Walton. “They are present at the event as well. Community tables are also there, and one that has been gaining popularity is the Lake's Region Kids Calendar.”

The Kids Calendar is a great resource for families to find events and tips on things to do.

“This year, we are trying a drawing contest where the participants will be judged and awarded prizes,” says Walton. “Otherwise, our goal continues to be the same: to educate and have fun chalking. We want this to be a fun event that was easy to bring kids to and learn about the trail.” 

Chalk the Trail in Windham will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, May 17 at the Gambo Soccer Fields connected to the Mountain Division Trail. Visitors should expect free chalk, temporary tattoos, giveaways, and many walk or bike the trail while at the event. All are encouraged to come and enjoy a fun event that is free and show their creativity.

To enter the Chalk the Trail Drawing Contest, please sign up at: https://forms.gle/BtFzL7YWFcNbJSNE8.

Another Chalk the Trail event will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. Sunday, June 21 at the Fryeburg Visitor Center on Route 302. <

Maine CDC encourages tick precautions Lyme Disease Awareness Month

AUGUSTA – The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) urges Maine residents and visitors to take precautions to stay “tick free” during Lyme Disease Awareness Month during May.

Deer ticks can carry germs that can cause diseases in both
people and animals and preventing tick bites is the best
way to avoid getting a tickborne disease, May is Lyme
Disease Awareness Month in Maine.
COURTESY PHOYTO  

This year’s Lyme Disease Awareness Month theme is “Tick Free Zone.” Preventing tick bites is the best way to avoid getting a tickborne disease. In Maine, deer ticks can carry germs that can cause diseases in both people and animals, the most common being Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis. Other tickborne diseases found in Maine include Hard Tick Relapsing Fever (Borrelia miyamotoi disease) and Powassan virus disease.

Preliminary reporting shows that health care providers reported 4,200 Lyme disease cases to Maine CDC in 2022 (from data as of May 2026). In addition to Lyme disease, providers reported two cases of Powassan virus disease in 2025. Those were the highest numbers reported for both Lyme disease and Powassan virus in a single year in Maine for the last decade. Preliminary data for 2026 indicates 366 cases of Lyme disease have been reported, year-to-date, in Maine.

Ticks live in wooded, leafy, and shrubby areas and deer ticks have been found in all 16 counties of Maine. They are currently active, so anyone spending time outdoors should take steps to limit their exposure to ticks. Following these Tick Free Zone tips after every outdoor activity can help you stay tick free:           

1. Know tick habitat and take precautions in areas where ticks may live.

2. Wear light-colored clothing that covers the arms and legs; tuck pants into socks.

3. Use an EPA-approved repellent like DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus on skin; use permethrin on clothing.

4. Check for ticks daily and after any outdoor activity. Check family members and pets too. 

5. Remove your clothing when you get home and put it in the dryer before washing. Use high heat for 10-15 minutes to kill any crawling ticks that have not attached to you.

The most common symptom of Lyme disease is a “bull’s-eye” rash which can appear anywhere on the body. Other symptoms of tickborne disease include symptoms like the flu or COVID-19 such as joint and muscle pain, fatigue, chills, fever, headache, and swollen lymph nodes. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, talk to a health care provider and be sure to mention a recent tick bite or time spent in tick habitat.

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension Tick Lab offers tick identification for free and testing to Maine residents for a fee of $20. Testing can take up to three days and should be used for surveillance purposes only and not for diagnosis, as finding a tick on you, even if it was attached, does not necessarily mean that any germs have been transmitted. Find more information at ticks.umaine.edu.

To learn more about how to be Tick Free and find educational resources, visit http://www.maine.gov/lyme. <

Maine suggests limiting health risks from browntail moth caterpillars

The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC), Maine Forest Service (MFS), and 211 Maine remind Maine residents to use caution, and watch out for browntail moth caterpillars.

Browntail moth caterpillars shed tiny, toxic hairs that can
get stirred up during outdoor activities such as raking,
mowing and typical spring yard work. The hairs can cause 
a skin rash similar to poison ivy. COURTESY PHOTO

These caterpillars shed tiny hairs that can cause a skin reaction which may resemble that of a poison ivy rash. When the hairs become airborne, they may be inhaled and cause trouble breathing.

As people head outside for recreation and yard maintenance this spring, they face increased risk of contact with the toxic hairs. During the past three years, Maine Forest Service has seen evidence of browntail moth infestations in all Maine counties throughout the state.

The greatest risk for exposure to the toxic hairs is between April and July when the larger caterpillars are active.

The hairs can land anywhere, including on trees, gardens, lawns, outdoor furniture and decks. They also float in the air and the hairs remain toxic in the environment for up to three years. Activities such as mowing, raking, and sweeping can stir up the hairs.

Most individuals affected by the browntail moth hairs develop a rash that lasts for a few hours up to several days. In more sensitive individuals, the rash can be severe and last for weeks. Inhaling the hairs may cause respiratory distress in some people.

The rash and difficulty breathing result from both the toxins in the hairs and barbs on the hairs that cause them to become embedded in the skin and airways.

Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and eliminating ongoing exposure. There is no specific treatment for the rash or breathing problems caused by exposure to browntail moth hairs.

Browntail moth caterpillars themselves are easy to identify. They are dark brown with white stripes along the sides and two red-orange dots on the back. Younger caterpillars lack these white stripes.

The steps that Mainers can take to protect themselves from browntail moth hairs include:

** Avoid places infested by caterpillars. To view a map of infestations, visit the Interactive Browntail Moth Dashboard

** When performing activities outdoors that may stir up caterpillar hairs, aim for damp days or spray vegetation down with a hose. The moisture helps keep the hairs from becoming airborne while you are working; cover face with respirator and goggles; tightly secure clothing around the neck, wrists, and ankles; take cool showers and change clothes after outdoor activities in infested areas; and dry laundry inside to avoid hairs embedding into clothing.

For more details:

** Contact 211 Maine for answers to frequently asked questions about browntail moths:

** Dial 211 (or 207-874-2211)

** Text your ZIP code to 898-211

** Maine CDC Browntail Moth Webpage: www.maine.gov/dhhs/browntailmoth

** Maine Forest Service Browntail Moth Webpage: www.maine.gov/dacf/knockoutbtm <