The History of Institutionalization in Maine. Part 1: The Promise and Failure of State Care (1820-1890)
Published: December 4, 2025 Brittany Lorance, Outreach Coordinator at CCSM “The failure of state care was a betrayal of trust, turning a promised sanctuary into a site of suffering that would set the stage for decades of institutional trauma.” The story of state-run psychiatric care is not one that begins
A Guide to Getting Involved
Published: November 21, 2025 Kerri Pitts, Policy Advocate at CCSM “When you share your experiences, lawmakers are more likely to understand what’s really happening in our communities.” Every year, there’s a fresh opportunity for Mainers to get involved in the policy decisions that affect them. The legislative decisions we weigh
2026 Hope Conference Call for Artwork
Would you like to design this year’s theme logo? Now is your chance! Looking for artwork to match this year’s theme! All submissions should look good on a 2-inch button. The chosen design will be used on all conference materials, website and social media! The Artist will receive a complimentary
HAVE YOU APPLIED? Maine Can Work MailChimp
HAVE YOU APPLIED? Maine Can Work is Looking for NEW Peer Facilitators! “There’s no wrong way to begin your journey towards employment!” Maine Can Work (MCW) is a seven-part guide to help people with behavioral health and/ or substance use challenges on the road to or back to employment. The lessons
Hands Off Our Ballots: Protecting Voting Rights and Access in Maine
Published: October 10, 2025 Brittany Lorance, Outreach Coordinator at CCSM Maine is a national leader in voter turnout; a success story built on accessible elections and a deep respect for civic participation. This reputation is backed by data: in the 2022 general election, Maine had the highest voter turnout in
New Episode! Our Voice of ME; Conversations with Artists, Part Three!
🎉 New Episode TODAY! 🎨 Created by the Consumer Council System of Maine (CCSM), this podcast centers on the voices of those with lived experience navigating mental health systems in Maine. Through storytelling, peer perspectives, and advocacy conversations, we aim to amplify real voices and inspire real change. This podcast is about
