This post contains our January 2026 community update, originally shared by email. It includes resources for reporting immigration enforcement activity, understanding rights, and accessing support in response to a recent enforcement surge in Maine. We are sharing it here to ensure continued access to this information.

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The Permanent Commission on the Status of Racial, Indigenous, and Tribal Populations is an independent government body tasked with identifying and addressing systemic inequalities impacting racial, Indigenous, and tribal populations in Maine. We are seeking a Community Engagement Intern to support a relationship mapping project. Learn more by checking out the full job description.

Please Note

This position will be engaged through a temporary staffing agency and therefore does not include benefits. A background check may be required by the staffing agency. The position is largely remote, with the option of joining the team in person one day a week at our office in Gardiner, Maine. The selected candidate will need their own access to a computer and the internet (though please let us know if this is a barrier).

The Permanent Commission on the Status of Racial, Indigenous, and Tribal Populations is an independent government body tasked with identifying and addressing systemic inequalities impacting racial, Indigenous, and tribal populations in Maine. We are currently seeking a research associate to support our growing team. Learn more by checking out the full job description.

Please Note

This position will be engaged through a temporary staffing agency and therefore does not include health or leave benefits. A background check may be required by the staffing agency. This position is largely remote, with the option of joining the team in person one day a week (Tuesday) at our office in Gardiner, Maine. The selected candidate must reside in Maine.

We are launching a new grant program to support Maine-based organizations in developing and carrying out intergenerational community-building projects that bring people of different ages together to learn, connect, and care for one another.

Part of the Permanent Commission’s mission is to support and create programs that expand opportunity and strengthen belonging for under-resourced racial, Indigenous, and tribal communities across Maine.

Selected partners will receive up to $8,000 through a low-cost service contract with the Permanent Commission to implement their project. Awardees will also have opportunities to connect and learn alongside other funded organizations.

Apply

Grant Goals

Funded projects should advance one or more of the following goals:

• Strengthen Social Bonds
  Support meaningful, reciprocal relationships between generations through shared experiences and cooperative activities.

• Enhance Community Wellbeing
  Reduce social isolation—particularly among older adults and youth—by creating inclusive, supportive intergenerational spaces.

• Preserve and Share Knowledge
  Support communities in preserving, practicing, and sharing cultural, historical, and practical knowledge across generations.

• Build Sustainable Community Models
  Support the development of intergenerational programs that can be sustained, adapted, or replicated as long-term community assets.

For more details, please review the Guidance Document.

Who Can Apply

To qualify, applicants must be one of the following:

• A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Maine
• A Wabanaki Tribal Government
• A town or county government in Maine
• A Maine school system

Collaboration Encouraged

We encourage and welcome collaborative applications. Organizations that have received a Permanent Commission grant within the last six months are required to partner with an entity that has not previously received funding or collaborated with us. This helps expand access and broaden community impact.

Application Deadline

Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM on Friday, January 30, 2026.

Questions?

Please review the Guidance Document and Application Example for more information.
For any additional questions, contact Billale Fulli at Billale.fulli@maine.gov.

Apply

What is the grant for?

The Public Narrative Change Grant will fund public events that change the way we talk about race, history, and justice. The goal is to tell the truth about how we got here, push back on harmful misconceptions, and bring people together around true stories that reflect our values: honesty, freedom, justice, and community.

You can apply for up to $10,000 to plan and run a public event or series of events that help shift public understanding in a positive direction. This includes telling stories that are often left out, lifting up community voices, and helping people understand that we can build a better future if we join together across race and place.

Submit your Application

What is Narrative Change: 

Narrative change means using stories, images, and events to change how people understand a topic. It’s about challenging harmful myths and stereotypes, telling the truth about our history, and showing that a better future is possible.

This work helps people see that the systems around us—who has power, who gets resources, and whose stories get told—didn’t happen by accident. They were created by people, and they can be changed by people too.

Grants will support eligible organizations through one-time funding to develop and implement narrative change events designed to accomplish one or more of the following goals:

We encourage applicants to embrace creativity and inclusivity, ensuring that all individuals, especially those facing additional barriers, are actively engaged in the development and implementation of their initiatives. Together, we will deepen relationships, invest in communities, support innovation, and ultimately build thriving, healthy, and resilient communities, where nobody – no matter our race, faith, zip code, or ancestors – gets left behind. 

If your organization has an idea for a public event or series that meets these goals, please submit your application to us for consideration! 

Who is eligible to apply? 

In order to qualify, organizations must be: 

1. Based in and legally authorized to operate in Maine, and 
2. Currently involved in work to shift narratives, challenge stereotypes, or uplift honest history and community stories. 

Organizations with multiple affiliated locations across the state should submit a single application. If you have any questions regarding your eligibility, please reach out to the Permanent Commission at the contact below. 

How much funding is available? 

The Permanent Commission is offering one-time awards with a maximum amount of $10,000. 

Selected partners will enter into a Low Cost Service Contract (LCSC) to begin project implementation. Contracts will provide for partners to submit two invoices during the course of the contract for work that has been completed and expenses incurred. 

Please note: Payment can not be made in advance. Contracts will provide for partners to submit two invoices over the course of the contract for work that has been completed and expenses incurred. 

What types of expenses are allowable/ unallowable? 

Examples of allowable expenses include (but are not limited to): 

• Physical space rental,
• Light refreshments, non-alcoholic beverages, and other accommodation costs associated with the proposed project, 
• Staff time, consultant time, and material costs for any activities directly related to the project, including community outreach, identified needs to address participant barriers (such as childcare or transportation), educational activities, data collection, and expenses related to developing communications materials, such as printing, design, videography, photography, and ad placement. 
• Staff time associated with attending project meetings with the Permanent Commission and developing/delivering a final report to the Permanent Commission describing the project activities, fund uses, and any other agreed upon reporting content. 

• Up to 10% maximum of indirect costs. 

Examples of unallowable expenses include (but are not limited to): 

• Lobbying, 
• Goods and services for personal use, 
• Goods, services, or staff time for work outside of the approved project, or
• Fines, penalties, damages and other settlements. 

Project budgets must be submitted as part of the application process and any amendments agreed in advance with the Permanent Commission. 

What does a strong application look like? 

Please see below an example of a completed application, which you may use as a reference when completing your own unique application. 

Application Example

This application example is designed to provide information on the level of detail the Permanent Commission expects from applicants. Please do not consider this example as a template to be copied or any indication of departmental preference for certain types of project proposals. We encourage you to share project ideas that best suit the needs of your organization and community. 

If selected, what requirements are there? 

Selected partners will be required to: 

1. Have or obtain a State of Maine vendor number. Permanent Commission staff will provide necessary support to obtain this. 
2. Enter into a low-cost service contract with the Permanent Commission. 
3. Submit two invoices for work undertaken in accordance with the approved budget and work plan. Note: expenditures should occur before the end of June 2026.
4. Submit a written final report within 30 days of the funded event that describes the project activities, how the funds were used, and includes any other reporting content agreed with the Permanent Commission based on the specific project. (note: we will provide a template which will also include the opportunity to provide feedback to us). 
5. Include the Permanent Commission’s logo on any promotional materials as a project sponsor and make space for Permanent Commission tabling at an event (if relevant and appropriate for the type of event). 

What is the grant timeline? 

When is the application deadline? 

The Permanent Commission is accepting applications through 11:59 p.m. on September 19, 2025. 

Who can I reach out to with more questions? 

You can contact Morgan Urquhart, Communications Coordinator at morgan.e.urquhart@maine.gov with any additional questions.

The Permanent Commission is thrilled to announce the recipients of this year’s Narrative Change for Food Security Mini-Award!

In partnership with the Governor’s Office of Policy Innovation & the Future’s Ending Hunger in Maine initiative, this program supports Community-Based Organizations in flipping the script on hunger and writing a brighter food future for Maine communities.

Congratulations to this year’s five awardees — and thank you to everyone who applied! Here are some of the exciting projects they’re working on:

We can't wait to see the impact of these powerful projects — and continuing to support community-driven solutions to hunger and food injustice in Maine.

Public Service Coordinator I

Augusta, Maine, United States | Professional/Technical | Full-time | Partially remote

Apply by: June 20, 2025

Questions about this position should be directed to Ariel Ricci at ariel.ricci@maine.gov

Join Our Team!

The Permanent Commission is looking for a Policy Coordinator to help make sure Maine’s commitment to racial justice translates into action.

This role works with agencies and across policy areas to track progress, support follow-through, and keep the focus on what communities have said they need. Follow the links on this page to apply through the Maine Bureau of Human Resources. Read more about the position below.

Position Details 

Department of Permanent Commission on the Status of Racial, Indigenous, and Tribal Populations

Job Class Code: CA24
Grade: 24/Confidential
Salary: $56,825.60-$80,516.80/Annually
Location: Augusta/Gardiner/Hybrid Remote

Opening Date: May 30, 2025

Closing Date:  June 20, 2025

The Permanent Commission on the Status of Racial, Indigenous, and Tribal Populations (the Permanent Commission) is an independent commission within the State of Maine tasked with identifying and promoting programs that create and improve opportunities for historically disadvantaged racial, Indigenous, and tribal populations in Maine. A key component of this work includes our statutory ability to advise and consult all three branches of Maine’s state government.

The Policy Coordinator will lead the Permanent Commission’s work to advance state-level policies that contribute to reducing racial disparities across the state. This role involves policy research, legislative tracking, preparing and delivering testimony on behalf of the Permanent Commission’s Policy Committee, and collaborating with other government agencies on activities and programs that reduce racial disparities. Reporting to the Executive Director, the position also works closely with the Research Specialist and Community Engagement Specialist, mutually informing each other’s work.

Responsibilities

 

• Lead the Permanent Commission’s efforts to advise and consult all three branches of government on legislation, policies, and programs impacting racial, Indigenous, and tribal populations.
• Conduct research and analysis on proposed legislation, budget proposals, and administrative actions to assess potential impacts on racial disparities.
• Prepare and deliver clear, concise, and accessible policy materials, including briefing papers, public testimony, and fact sheets that are grounded in reliable non-partisan sources. 
• Staff the Policy Committee, including preparing agendas, briefings, and recommendations on policy issues, including proactively identifying strategic options and recommendations to advance the Committee’s priorities.
• Monitor state legislative sessions to identify bills or administrative actions that may impact racial disparities or the Permanent Commission as an agency; provide timely updates and strategic recommendations to the Executive Director and Policy Committee.
• Represent the Permanent Commission in meetings with legislators, government agencies, policy implementers, and other strategic partners.
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with legislators, state agencies, and policy-focused organizations.
• Track and analyze emerging policy issues at the state and national levels that may impact communities in Maine; serve as the primary point of contact for policy-related inquiries within the organization.

 

Work environment

The Permanent Commission strives for a culture of support, inclusion, accountability, and empowerment, where you can experience belonging, be inspired, learn, and grow your skills. In concrete terms, this means:

We actively provide opportunities for professional development; We work together to set clear expectations, provide and receive honest feedback; We collaborate on projects, supporting and celebrating each other’s success; We know that communities who have survived and thrived in spite of systemic oppression are essential to our work. Lived experience is key. As our former Commissioner Dee Clark said, “Nothing about us without us.”  We know that we have more room to grow, and look forward to your creativity and enthusiasm.

How to Apply

Interested applicants need to apply online by selecting the "Apply for this opening" button along with uploading a cover letter, current resume, and copies of any transcripts or certifications you wish to have considered while evaluating your application.  In order for us to properly determine if you meet the minimum qualifications for any posting, you must be sure your resume includes month and year for any experience listed along with the duties and responsibilities associated with each particular time period.  Any experience that was not full-time employment should be identified as such. 

If you require a paper application, please download and print one here https://www.maine.gov/bhr/state-jobs/application-process or contact our office at 207-623-6700.  Paper applications for this posting should be submitted along with cover letter and resume before the closing date to Security & Employment Service Center, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta, ME  04330 or faxed to 207-287-2018.  Be sure title of the job you are applying for is included.  Applications cannot be accepted after the posting closing date. 

Benefits of working for the State of Maine

No matter where you work across Maine state government, you find employees who embody our state motto—"Dirigo" or "I lead"—as they provide essential services to Mainers every day. We believe in supporting our workforce's health and wellbeing with a valuable total compensation package, including:

Work-Life Fit – Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using 13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually. Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave. Health Insurance Coverage – The State of Maine pays 85%-95% of employee-only premiums ($11,196.96 - $12,514.32 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find the premium costs for you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.  Dental Insurance – The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($387.92 annual value).  Retirement Plan – The State contributes the equivalent of 13.29% of the employee's pay towards the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS) for MSEA, or 18.09% for Confidential employees. 

State employees are eligible for an extensive and highly competitive benefits package, covering many aspects of wellness. Learn about additional wellness benefits for State employees from the Office of Employee Health and Wellness.

Note: Benefits may vary somewhat according to specific collective bargaining agreements and are prorated for anything less than full-time.

There's a job and then there's purposeful, transformative work. Our aim is to create a workplace where you can learn, grow, and continuously refine your skills. Applicants demonstrate job requirements in differing ways, and we appreciate that many skills and backgrounds can make people successful in this role. 

As an Equal Opportunity employer, Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and awareness. We are committed to creating a strong sense of belonging for all team members, and our process ensures an inclusive environment to applicants of all backgrounds including diverse race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, familial status or genetics. 

If you’re looking for a great next step, and want to feel good about what you do, we’d love to hear from you. Please note reasonable accommodations are provided to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.

Research shows that people from historically excluded communities tend to apply to jobs only when they check every box in the posting. If you’re currently reading this and hesitating to apply for that reason, we encourage you to go for it! Let us know how your lived experience and passion set you apart.

Apply by: June 20, 2025

The Permanent Commission on the Status of Racial, Indigenous, and Tribal Populations is thrilled to announce the recipients of our Health and Wellness Mini-Award! Focused on new collaborations, this initiative supports Community Based Organizations (CBOs) in developing programs that support creative approaches to improving overall health and wellness in Maine for historically marginalized communities. Congratulations to the nine organizations and thanks to all who applied! Check out the exciting projects that these organizations are working on! 

• La Finca: Addressing food insecurity by increasing access to healthy, local produce for under-resourced urban families by delivering food from their rural farm.
• United Youth Empowerment (UnitedYes): Providing Somali-Bantu youth with mindfulness workshops and culturally relevant healing circles to address mental health, stress management, and community healing. 
• Maine Association of New Americans: Continues and scales programming that provides support for immigrant and older women in Southern Maine through multilingual workshops sharing wellness strategies, retreats promoting physical activity and mental health, and hosting recovery nature walks for older women.
• Fitness Bridge: Supports wellness activities through group fitness classes, educational workshops, and providing sports recreational activities for Muslim young adults in the Greater Portland Area.
• Tree Street Youth: Addressing gun violence in Lewiston through mentoring services and social-emotional group support pairing community leaders with at-risk Black male youth.
• Boys and Girls Club of Maliseet: Providing Indigenous youth with culturally relevant physical, emotional, and mental health activities and recreational trips to promote active lifestyles and cultural connections.
• Seeing for Ourselves and Generational Noor: Collaboratively working together to support immigrant and refugee populations in Lewiston and Auburn area to train them in participatory photography sharing stories about Maine’s vibrant and resilient immigrant communities through a short film and an open gallery exhibit. 
• Gateway Community Services Maine: Creating a support group for asylum seekers in transitional housing dealing with mental health challenges and social isolation to engage in breathwork, yoga, and journaling exercises while building social connections.
• YWCA Central Maine: Builds on a successful pilot to expand access to culturally appropriate swimming lessons and water safety training for youth from the New Mainer community in Androscoggin County.

We are launching our next round of mini-awards! This round of awards will provide up to $4,000 to eligible organizations to develop and execute narrative change for food security projects in Maine. 

Below, you can find key guidance on the Permanent Commission’s Narrative Change for Food Security Mini-Award. Please take time to read this document in its entirety. If you have any questions regarding this opportunity, please reach out to Rae Sage, Policy Coordinator, at Rae.Sage@maine.gov. 

What is the Narrative Change for Food Security Mini-Award?

Part of the Permanent Commission’s mission is to support and create programs that improve opportunities for under-resourced racial, Indigenous, and tribal communities in the state - communities that are also disproportionately impacted by food insecurity in Maine. The Permanent Commission is partnering with the Governor’s Office of Policy Innovation & the Future (GOPIF)’s Ending Hunger in Maine initiative to launch a mini-award program to advance efforts to change the narrative around food insecurity by centering communities most impacted.

What is Narrative Change?

Narrative change work lives at the intersection of policy and communication work. It is a long-term strategy that uses stories to challenge harmful stereotypes, spark changes in thinking, and center common values by centering accurate and empowering stories.

What kind of projects should apply?

Mini-awards will support eligible organizations through one-time funding to develop and implement narrative change projects designed to accomplish one or more of the following goals:

Project Goals	Example Project
Shift the narrative from one that focuses on individual blame and stereotypes to one that focuses on the collective benefits and responsibilities of ending hunger in Maine - emphasizing a positive, forward-looking message centered on a future where no one in Maine faces food insecurity.	A project to develop shared messaging among multiple organizations that promotes the collective benefits of ending hunger in Maine; for example by: Dispelling divisive zero-sum narratives, which promote the idea that progress for some, comes at the expense of others.  Promoting the right to food. Dispelling harmful narratives about who is deserving of food and other basic needs.
Lift up positive stories about community-driven solutions to food insecurity led by disproportionately impacted communities.	An organization developing materials that tell the story of their impact.
Reduce stigma or address misconceptions that create barriers to accessing food resources and assistance.	Developing a social media campaign to reduce stigma or address misconceptions that create barriers to accessing food resources and assistance.
Center the voices of communities disproportionately impacted by food insecurity and people with lived experience.	Generation and dissemination of a zine highlighting the lived experiences of those impacted by food insecurity. A photovoice project designed to uplift the stories of underrepresented communities. Developing messaging to address stigma and barriers based on the lived expertise of impacted communities.
Elevate information about available resources or best practices in reference to specific marginalized communities to increase accessibility for both those working to address food insecurity and those directly impacted by food insecurity.	Translation and broader dissemination of critical information or trainings on how to support specific communities facing food insecurity with sensitivity to the challenges presented by compounding disparities.

Apply

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