Area Businesses, Organizations Make Holidays Bright for Children and Teens Served by Youth Alternatives

Nine southern Maine businesses and organizations and several individuals pitched in to make the holidays a little brighter for more than 300 children and teens throughout the state who are served by Youth Alternatives.

Gifts such as new bicycles, dolls, games and clothing were donated to the youths, who each receive assistance from Youth Alternatives, a statewide non-profit organization that serves children and teens who are survivors of abuse and neglect as well as those at-risk for homelessness or criminal behavior.

In late November, Youth Alternatives put out a "wish list" asking persons and businesses to fulfill gift requests made by the children themselves. The response proved overwhelming, according to Michael Tarpinian, president of Youth Alternatives.

The gift-giving effort was led by Coldwell Banker Cares, the charitable arm of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage of New England. Coldwell Banker associates throughout southern Maine wrapped and labeled each individual gift.

"The spirit generated by Coldwell Banker was amazing," said Tarpinian. "We can't express our appreciation enough for all that they've contributed."

Other businesses and organizations involved included Cathedral School and Parish, Mainebiz, Foreside Company, Turner Barker Insurance, Maine Medical Center, Atlantic Sportswear and a Girl Scout Troop based in Hollis.

"Many of these children are going through events in their lives and issues that most children do not have to deal with," said Erin O'Connor Jones, vice president of communications at Youth Alternatives. "We truly are grateful for the generosity that helped make this holiday season a little more special for them."

Those who receive assistance from Youth Alternatives include survivors of abuse and neglect, whether physical, emotional or sexual; parents in need of supports and education; children and youth at-risk for homelessness or criminal behavior; and/or families at-risk of having a child removed from their homes.

Founded in 1972, Youth Alternatives, headquartered at 400 Congress St. in Portland, provides a full range of services, from prevention of child abuse and neglect to intensive intervention and safe-haven homes for youth. Through its programs, Youth Alternatives serves more than 7,000 children, youth and family members throughout Maine each year.

In addition to programs and services, Youth Alternatives residential homes for children include Bass House, Heritage House, Perry's Place, Reardon's Place and ROADS Group Home.


Youth Alternatives relies on federal, state and local grants, foundations, United Way organizations, corporate support and individual donations. For more information, visit online at www.youthalternatives.org, call (207) 874-1175 or e-mail info@youthalternatives.org.

Since 2001, Youth Alternatives has partnered with Coldwell Banker Cares, a non-profit organization operated by the Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. Coldwell Banker Cares is focused on raising money to provide shelter, particularly to children.

"Our partnership with Coldwell Banker Cares is an important one for our organization," Tarpinian said. "Their leadership in assisting children and families in southern Maine truly makes a difference each day for our families."

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Brand new bikes were among the holiday gifts donated by Coldwell Banker Cares to children who are being served by Youth Alternatives. Pictured (from left) are: Sarah Johnson, YA VP of development; Gloria Melnick, YA executive VP; Michael Tarpinian, YA President; Kelley Craig and Deb Abbondanza of Coldwell Banker; and Lynley Walker, YA development coordinator.