Every day, families in Maine are struggling to pay rent and utilities; children without access to adequate technology are missing learning milestones; seniors in rural communities are more isolated than ever; drug overdose rates are rising; and people of all ages are reeling from the financial, physical, and mental impacts of the pandemic.
Taken all together, these problems can feel overwhelming. But at The Opportunity Alliance (TOA), a Cumberland County-based social service agency, there’s a shared belief that positive change is possible because they have seen that change happen. It starts with the intelligent, passionate, and dedicated employees who are the heart and soul of the agency.
“I wish people knew how much of an impact The Opportunity Alliance makes,” said Abigail S., a lead teacher in a Head Start classroom in Portland, where she prepares three- to five-year-olds for the structure of kindergarten with fun, safe, educational activities. “There are so many deep connections and relationships that happen here. Whether it’s between the staff or the families or the children, I just think it’s really beautiful that we get to spend so much time in connection with other people.”
A Head Start student has fun on the playground. Image provided by The Opportunity Alliance
For over 50 years, TOA has woven into the community through more than 50, comprehensively connected programs in four key sectors of service: Mental Health & Wellness, Community Building, Family & Early Childhood Education, and Economic Resources. This structure provides over 20,000 people a year with compassionate and effective wrap-around support.
For instance, TOA Early Childhood Education programs—including the Head Start program where Abigail teaches—work with families to support their children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development at all ages, in classrooms and at home.
“I actually studied art therapy,” Abigail said, recounting how her career began. “But then I found a job posting for The Opportunity Alliance and I visited the classroom and met the kids. They are really what brought me here. They’re just so bright and full of energy, so open-minded and curious. I love seeing them every day.”
Another TOA program is the Behavioral Health Home model, which delivers integrated care to people who struggle with mental health. Aaron H. is a BHH Care Coordinator. He’s been with TOA for eight years.
Aaron H., an eight-year employee of The Opportunity Alliance. Image provided by The Opportunity Alliance
“I like to call it ‘traditional’ social work in the sense that we are involved in every aspect of people’s lives,” said Aaron. He works with clients to consider their needs around housing, health care, finances, work, education, and other areas that are important to them and together develop a treatment plan made up of individual goals and preferences. As an experienced case manager, Aaron said that of all the resources he is provided with, he values the “people resources” the most.
“I’m consistently impressed with the level of dedication from all of the staff that I work with in all the different capacities,” he said. “What I have seen at The Opportunity Alliance is not only the dedication to helping people solve their problems, but really being present with people through that process in a really deep and meaningful way.”
A TOA employee helps a client access services.
Even though she is in a different sector of service, Abigail shares Aaron’s sentiments about her co-workers, people who are looking to make a difference in the world. “I think the thing that’s special about working here is that everyone’s in it for the same reason,” she said. “Everyone is so passionate and patient and caring.”
Sanaa A. is a Community Builder at TOA, connecting people and resources in the same neighborhoods. Image provided by The Opportunity Alliance
Sanaa A. works as a Community Builder, a unique role that builds family and community resilience by working directly with residents and service providers to increase connections between resources and neighbors. She feels especially powerful in her job when she meets people who have fled danger in their home countries, recalling the many times that a meeting begins with tears of frustration and ends with a smile of relief.
“That is a big day for me. It’s a big success,” said Sanaa. “When they feel like there is someone in the community who can really help them to get back to their normal life, it’s a win for each employee.”
At The Opportunity Alliance, there are so many different types of positions: from direct care staff and teachers to roles in management and administration. If you’re passionate about helping others, there’ll be a place here for you.
Joining The Opportunity Alliance is an opportunity to change lives. Find your opportunity at opportunityalliance.org/careers
Copy the Story Link
Comments are not available on this story.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
