Projects
- 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 with grand hospitals. It begins
- A Guide to Getting InvolvedPublished: 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 in on range from crisis
- 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 the nation. In the 2020
- 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 real stories, real voices, and
- Seeking Submissions: Peer Artwork Wall Calendar – Deadline 9/30 approaching!DEADLINE APPROACHING! 9/30/25 @ MIDNIGHT 2026 Peer Art Wall Calendar – a new annual fundraiser that highlights the powerful creativity of peers with lived experience in mental health. The wall calendars will feature original artwork submitted by peers across the state, with each month showcasing a different artist’s work. All proceeds from calendar sales will go toward mental health advocacy efforts
- Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic2024 Monthly Info Sessions The Consumer Council System of Maine and The Office of Behavioral Health will host monthly info sessions via Zoom. Come find out more about the development of Maine’s New Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics
