OLD ORCHARD BEACH — Democrat Lori Gramlich has announced her candidacy for State House District 13, covering Old Orchard Beach.

Gramlich is a licensed master social worker and CEO of the Maine Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers. She is also an adjunct faculty at the University of Southern Maine School of Social Work.

Gramlich has had a long career in advocacy and said if elected she will work to speak on behalf of her community. She received her master’s degree in Social Work from the University of New England in Biddeford, and has more than 30 years experience in nonprofit prevention based social work, advocacy, and social justice initiatives.

“Throughout my career, I have always advocated for the rights of workers, for children, for our seniors and for those who need to have their voices heard. Growing up in a single parent household, we relied on public assistance and were presented with many challenges. I knew that I couldn’t change my situation as a child, but I could, as an adult, be in a position to affect change on behalf of others,” said Gramlich.

Gramlich has worked at the Maine Department of Health Human Services, served as communications director for Senate President Beverly Daggett in the State Legislature, and has served on the Portland School Committee. She is a recent graduate of Emerge Maine.

“As a social worker, I understand the need to engage together as a community to affect change. I will use my skills and expertise to be an effective voice for our community,” said Gramlich. 

In addition to her public policy and advocacy experience, Gramlich and her husband Bob Kelly own a small business in Old Orchard Beach and anticipate their seasonal opening later this spring. 

“Local businesses are the cornerstone of our community. I am committed to maintaining the success of our small businesses in our town,” she said.


Comments are not available on this story.

filed under: