Our Volunteers ROCK!

At Seeds of Hope Neighborhood Center, we are incredibly fortunate to have the support of over 36 dedicated volunteers at any given time. Their schedules vary, and we are flexible to accommodate whatever works best for them. We couldn't do this work without their invaluable contributions!

Last year alone, our volunteers collectively "worked" over 8,000 hours. If we were to pay them a mere $17 an hour, it would amount to a savings of over $136,000 yearly. This significant contribution allows us to allocate more resources directly to our programs and services, enhancing our ability to support those in need. However, $17 doesn't nearly account for the priceless support and dedication they bring to our organization.

We are always looking for passionate individuals to join our team of volunteers. Whether you have a few hours a month or can commit to a more regular schedule, we have opportunities that can fit your availability. Volunteering with Seeds of Hope is a rewarding experience where you can make a real difference in the lives of those in our community.

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Our Dedicated Team

At Seeds of Hope Neighborhood Center, our success is built on the dedication and abilities of our incredible staff. From our early days with just one full-time staff member, we have grown into a team of 9 full-time and 8 part-time staff.

Each member of our team brings unique skills, compassion, and a commitment to our mission, making Seeds of Hope a beacon of support and hope in our community.

Our staff's unwavering dedication and collaborative spirit ensure that we can effectively serve those in need and continue to expand our reach. Together, we strive to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for everyone who walks through our doors.

Boards of Director 2025

  • Director of Spiritual Care and Clinical Chaplain at Southern Maine Health Care. Ordained minister in the United Church of Christ. Prior to working in Southern Maine, she served on the Strafford County Jail Board while serving as Palliative Care Chaplain at Wentworth Douglass Hospital.

  • Maggie has spent the past 25 years as a marketing consultant. Beginning her career in Maine as a broadcast media consultant with the CBS-FOX and ending her career as Director of Sales for Dirigo Collective which is an advertising agency that specializes in helping non-profits and B Corps.

  • Amy has been serving on the SOH Board for the past two years as Treasurer. She currently works as a school counselor at Scarborough HS.

  • Carmen retired in 2022 after 28 years of service to the City of Biddeford, first as a Counter Clerk; then as Office Manager/Assistant City Clerk, and then in 2007 as City Clerk under then Mayor Wallace Nutting. 

  • Fausto is the Co-Founder of Blue Elephant Events and Catering, LA Blue Wedding Brokers, and Co-owner of Real Maine Weddings magazine. He is a member of the Leading Caterers of America, sits on the board of directors of the International Caterers Association, and is a past President of the Biddeford-Saco Rotary Club.

  • Matthew is a Branch Manager at Northeast Credit Union. He is committed to donating as much of his free time as possible to various charities and non-profit organizations that he supports, including Seeds of Hope, Saco Meals, Heart of Biddeford, Saco Main Street, SkillsUSA, and the Maine Credit Union League. 

  • Joyce holds a senior position in the Patients Account Department at Sweetser, a mental health organization, where she holds a senior position in the Patients Account Department. In addition, she manages a Facebook page called "Sprinkle," through which she coordinates donations for propane and other essential resources for individuals experiencing homelessness.

  • Matt became the Chief Banking Officer at Saco & Biddeford Savings Institution following a 20-year tenure at TD Bank as the Dean of Wealth & Practice Management. He also served in the Maine Army National Guard where he developed skills in leadership, emergency response, and teamwork.

  • Carmelita's career began with the Department of Human Services, where she held various positions related to Food Stamps, Medicaid, Disability Determination, and Payroll. She later joined the Westbrook School Department, serving as Senior Secretary to the Principal of Congin Elementary School and holding roles as a Union Representative, NESAC member, and Special Education staff.

  • Pam Small, a U.S. Army veteran and dedicated social worker, holds degrees from the University of Cincinnati and the University of New England. She lives in Maine with her husband Tom and their rescue dog, Angel, and brings experience in community service, including a past role on the York County Community Action Program board. 

Our Legacy: A Special Tribute: The Reverends Shirley & Peter Bowen

Without Reverend Shirley and Peter Bowen, there would be no Seeds of Hope Neighborhood Center. For nearly 15 years, Reverend Shirley's vision and dedication have been the cornerstone of all we do today. With Peter by her side for many years, as a stalwart partner in the fight against food insecurity, isolation, and despair, their work has been instrumental to our current success.

Reverend Shirley's unwavering commitment to serving the community and her relentless drive to create a supportive and inclusive environment have laid the foundation for Seeds of Hope. Peter's steadfast support and active involvement complemented her efforts, making a profound impact on countless lives.

Their legacy of compassion, resilience, and community spirit continues to inspire us every day. We are deeply grateful for their contributions and honored to carry forward their mission of hope and support.