Category: Press Center

Maine Community Bank Expands Wealth Management Team with Matthew Cyr and Lisa Dube

PORTLAND, Maine—May 13, 2026—Maine Community Bank continues to build its wealth management capacity with the addition of two experienced professionals who share a belief that financial guidance starts with relationships.

Matthew Cyr has joined the bank as Senior Vice President, Director of Wealth Management. He brings decades of experience in financial services and a track record of growing a wealth management program into a trusted resource for clients and their families. His work has centered on helping people make informed decisions with an approach rooted in disciplined investment guidance over time and nurturing long-term relationships. In this role, he will guide the continued growth of the bank’s wealth management program and shape an approach that connects financial planning with everyday banking relationships.

“I have spent my career in community banking because I believe relationships still matter,” said Cyr. “At the end of the day, this business is about trust, guidance, and being there for people through all stages of life. What drew me to Maine Community Bank is the opportunity to build something meaningful. Wealth management should feel accessible, thoughtful, and connected to the everyday banking experience. There is a real opportunity here to bring together strong local relationships, practical financial guidance, and a long-term view that helps clients move forward with confidence in every chapter. I am excited to get started, work alongside a talented team, and strengthen the program in a way that reflects both the values of the bank and the needs of the communities we serve.”

Cyr is known for developing client relationships that last across generations. Prior to joining Maine Community Bank, he led Saco & Biddeford Savings’ Financial Services program, where he built teams with a focus on accountability and sound advice. With deep roots in Southern Maine, Cyr brings a clear understanding of the people and communities the bank serves.

Joining Cyr is Lisa Dube, Senior Financial Services Assistant, who will be based in the bank’s Biddeford location. She brings more than 25 years of experience in financial services and a reputation for steady, thoughtful client support. Dube will assist Cyr along with the program’s two established financial advisors.

“Bringing Matt and Lisa aboard is an important step in how we continue to evolve,” said Steve deCastro, CEO of Maine Community Bank. “They share our belief that financial guidance should feel personal and rooted in trusted local relationships. Their experience, along with the way they connect with clients, will help us continue developing our wealth management offering to reinforce our commitment to Maine families, businesses, and communities.”

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About Maine Community Bank

Headquartered in Portland, Maine Community Bank is the largest mutual savings bank operating exclusively in the state, with nearly $3 billion in assets and 21 branches across Androscoggin, Cumberland, and York counties. With a rich 150+ year heritage, the bank remains proudly ‘All in on Maine’ and committed to helping Maine families, businesses, and communities thrive.

As the only bank headquartered in Cumberland County, Maine Community Bank is a depositor-owned institution committed to local decision-making and offering a comprehensive suite of both personal and business financial services, as well as wealth management.

Committed to the well-being of its communities, Maine Community Bank annually contributes thousands of volunteer hours and financial resources to community-based initiatives. By investing in local partnerships that promote financial literacy, stimulate economic growth, and foster entrepreneurship, the bank strengthens the fabric of the communities it serves. Learn more at maine.bank.

Maine Community Bank Announces Executive Leadership Transition in Commercial Banking

PORTLAND, Maine—May 5, 2026—Maine Community Bank announced today that Chief Commercial Officer Karl Suchecki will retire at the end of May after more than two decades with the bank. Longtime employee Matt Early, currently Senior Vice President and Director of Commercial Banking, has been named Chief Commercial Officer and will step into the role upon Suchecki’s retirement, ensuring continuity of leadership. 

Suchecki joined the bank in 2004 as a Commercial Banker and advanced through a series of leadership roles before being named Chief Commercial Officer in 2019. Over the course of his tenure, he played a central role in shaping the Bank’s commercial strategy and strengthening relationships with businesses and organizations across Maine.

“Karl has been a steady hand through an enormous amount of change and growth, and he’s done it by building trust, developing people, and consistently showing up for customers,” said Steve deCastro, CEO, Maine Community Bank. “The strength of our commercial team is a direct reflection of his leadership. We are grateful for his contributions and the example he has set for so many of our colleagues.”

Early will carry that strength forward, continuing the department’s focus on external networking, partnership development, and relationship building. He brings more than 30 years of experience in banking and a longstanding commitment to supporting economic development across Maine.

“Matt understands what makes community banking work, especially here in Maine,” said deCastro. “He has built his career around relationships and helping businesses and communities thrive. He is the perfect choice to lead this next chapter of growth for our organization.” 

Early is a graduate of the University of Maine and holds an MBA from Southern New Hampshire University. He previously served on the board of the Maine Real Estate & Development Association (MEREDA) and works closely with local housing authorities to support affordable housing initiatives. 

“I’m honored to step into this role and continue the work Karl has led so well,” said Early. “Community banking is rooted in relationships. I look forward to working alongside our team to strengthen those connections and build on that foundation to expand our impact across Maine.”

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About Maine Community Bank 

Headquartered in Portland, Maine Community Bank is the largest mutual savings bank operating exclusively in the state, with nearly $3 billion in assets and 21 branches across Androscoggin, Cumberland, and York counties. With a rich 150+ year heritage, the bank remains proudly ‘All in on Maine’ and committed to helping Maine families, businesses, and communities thrive. 

As the only bank headquartered in Cumberland County, Maine Community Bank is a depositor-owned institution committed to local decision-making and offering a comprehensive suite of both personal and business financial services, as well as wealth management.  

Committed to the well-being of its communities, Maine Community Bank annually contributes thousands of volunteer hours and financial resources to community-based initiatives. By investing in local partnerships that promote financial literacy, stimulate economic growth, and foster entrepreneurship, the bank strengthens the fabric of the communities it serves. Learn more at maine.bank. 

Maine Community Bank Maine Marathon Names 2026 Beneficiaries, Directing $65,700 to Four Maine Nonprofits

 

PORTLAND, Maine (March 25, 2026) —The Maine Community Bank Maine Marathon is proud to announce its 2026 beneficiaries: Camp No Limits, Day One, Nanna’s House, and Pine Tree Society. Together, these four Maine-based nonprofits will receive $65,700 from the proceeds of the annual, nonprofit, volunteer-run race, which will take place on Sunday, October 4, 2026, in Portland.

Organized each year by the Maine Track Club, the Marathon, Half Marathon, and Relay continues its tradition of supporting local organizations that make a meaningful difference for Maine children, families, and communities. This year’s beneficiaries were selected for their dedication to providing essential services, compassionate support, and life-changing opportunities across the state.

Camp No Limits – Wales ($20,000) – Camp No Limits serves children and young adults with limb loss and limb differences. The Camp provides education, mentorship, and adaptive recreational experiences that build confidence, connection, and independence.

Day One – Windham ($20,000) – Day One supports Maine youth and families through substance use prevention, treatment, and mental health services, helping young people navigate some of life’s most difficult challenges with care and stability.

Nanna’s House – Standish ($5,700) – Nanna’s House supports children entering the foster care system by providing age-appropriate supply kits that help meet immediate needs and bring a small measure of comfort during moments of transition.

Pine Tree Society – Scarborough ($20,000) – Celebrating 90 years of service, Pine Tree Society creates opportunities for Maine children and adults with disabilities to live full, engaged lives through programs that promote independence, communication, and inclusion.

“This race is an amazing expression of community,” said Steve deCastro, CEO, Maine Community Bank, the title sponsor of the Maine Marathon since 2010. “Each beneficiary is doing deeply important work helping Maine children and families, and we are proud to support their efforts through such an uplifting and meaningful event.”

Since 1979, the Marathon has raised nearly $9 million for charity. Each year, volunteer organizers select a group of nonprofits from the community to receive proceeds from the race, continuing a longstanding tradition of giving back through one of Maine’s signature road races.

“The organizations chosen as our 2026 beneficiaries represent the kind of compassionate, high-impact work that has always been at the heart of the Marathon,” said Bob Dunfey, volunteer race director of the Maine Community Bank Maine Marathon. “We’re excited to partner with them in the year ahead and help expand their impact through the race and the additional fundraising opportunities it provides.”

In addition to direct funding, the Marathon offers participating nonprofits the opportunity to raise additional support through the event’s broader fundraising efforts. Beneficiaries also play an important role on race weekend by providing volunteers to assist with operations throughout the course, helping make the event a success for runners, spectators, and the community alike.

The 2026 race will once again feature its scenic Portland course, with the marathon, half marathon, and relay starting and finishing near Back Cove. A USATF-certified course and Boston Marathon qualifier, the event draws runners from Maine and beyond while keeping its focus firmly on local impact.

For more information about the Maine Community Bank Maine Marathon, to register, or to learn more about the 2026 beneficiaries, visit MaineMarathon.com.

About the Maine Marathon
The Maine Marathon, Half Marathon, and Relay is a volunteer-run nonprofit event organized by the Maine Track Club. Held annually in Portland, Maine, the race is a Boston Marathon qualifier and directs net proceeds to Maine-based charitable organizations.

About the Maine Track Club
The Maine Track Club, the state’s largest running club, has organized the Maine Marathon since 1997. As a nonprofit, volunteer-run organization, the club is committed to promoting running and raising funds for local charities.

About Maine Community Bank
Headquartered in Portland, Maine Community Bank is the largest mutual savings bank operating exclusively in the state, with nearly $3 billion in assets and 21 branches across Androscoggin, Cumberland, and York counties. Formed from the merger of Gorham Savings Bank and Maine Community Bank—two of Maine’s longest-standing community banks with rich 150+ year heritages—the bank combines the strengths of both institutions to create an even stronger, more capable, and more convenient institution for Maine families, businesses, and communities.

As the only bank headquartered in Cumberland County, Maine Community Bank is a depositor-owned institution committed to local decision-making and offering a comprehensive suite of both personal and business financial services, as well as wealth management.

Committed to the well-being of its communities, Maine Community Bank annually contributes thousands of volunteer hours and financial resources to community-based initiatives. By investing in local partnerships that promote financial literacy, stimulate economic growth, and foster entrepreneurship, the bank strengthens the fabric of the communities it serves.

Marcus Buzulchuck Named Vice President, Commercial Banking Officer

PORTLAND, Maine (February 12, 2026) — Marcus Buzulchuck has joined the commercial banking team as Vice President, Commercial Banking Officer, supporting small businesses throughout the Southern Maine market. 

Buzulchuck will be based in the bank’s Biddeford office. He previously served as branch manager of the Biddeford–Main Street location and brings nearly 15 years of experience with the bank. 

“Marcus’s promotion reflects our commitment to developing talent from within and investing in people who understand our communities and our clients,” said CEO Steve deCastro. “His experience, leadership, and deep roots in Southern Maine position him well to support the region’s small businesses.” 

In his new role, Buzulchuck will work closely with local business owners, providing tailored commercial banking solutions to support their growth and long-term success. 

 

About Maine Community Bank 

Headquartered in Portland, Maine Community Bank is the largest mutual savings bank operating exclusively in the state, with nearly $3 billion in assets and 21 branches across Androscoggin, Cumberland, and York counties. Formed from the merger of Gorham Savings Bank and Maine Community Bank—two of Maine’s longest-standing community banks with rich 150+ year heritages—the b

ank combines the strengths of both institutions to create an even stronger, more capable, and more convenient institution for Maine families, businesses, and communities. 

As the only bank headquartered in Cumberland County, Maine Community Bank is a depositor-owned institution committed to local decision-making and offering a comprehensive suite of both personal and business financial services, as well as wealth management.  

Committed to the well-being of its communities, Maine Community Bank annually contributes thousands of volunteer hours and financial resources to community-based initiatives. By investing in local partnerships that promote financial literacy, stimulate economic growth, and foster entrepreneurship, the bank strengthens the fabric of the communities it serves. Learn more at maine.bank. 

This article originally appeared in Mainebiz.

By Kim Donnelly, Chief Client Development Officer, Maine Community Bank

Owning a business is never about just earning a living. For many families, the business becomes a source of identity, pride, and long-term security. After decades of working with Maine entrepreneurs, I have seen how much of themselves owners pour into their companies, and how often the planning that helps a business endure gets pushed aside in the rush of daily work.

A lasting business legacy takes foresight. Think of legacy as maximizing the value of the business and keeping your future options open. It comes from the decisions you make now, the structure you build, and the clarity you bring to what you want the next chapter to look like. Whether you hope to pass the company to family, transition it to employees, prepare it for sale, or use it to support future generations, early planning makes an enormous difference.

Here is a practical roadmap for business owners.

Start with a Clear Vision for the Business

Every owner has a personal definition of success. Some picture their children running the business. Others imagine an employee-led future such as an ESOP. Others want to position the company for a sale or simply keep it healthy so it can support the next generation.

Being clear about your long-term goal guides everything from reinvestment decisions to hiring to leadership development. Most owners have a large share of their personal wealth tied to their company. Think of the business as your key financial asset. Strengthen it, protect it, and design it so it can function without depending entirely on you.

  • Document Core Processes: Write things down. Document core processes, financial practices, customer relationships, and operational knowledge. A well-documented business is easier to run, easier to value, and far easier to hand off when the time comes.
  • Build A Team of Trusted Advisors: From a CPA to an estate attorney to investment advisors, it’s critical to surround yourself with experts you trust to make navigating this process at every stage a lot easier.

Sustain the Business with Structure and Early Succession Thinking

Start succession planning early, even if stepping back feels far away. Whether your successor will be a family member, a key employee, or an outside buyer, preparation gives you options and adds value. Ideally, begin this process 5 to 10 years before your target date to step back.

Build simple governance:

  • Hold ownership or advisory meetings on a regular schedule, even if the group is small.
  • Clarify roles and how decisions get made.
  • Introduce the next generation, whether family or employees, to the financial and operational side of the business.

Review your plan every year. Markets move, families change, and laws evolve. A brief annual update keeps your plans current and avoids being caught off guard.

Protect Everything You Have Built

The overlap between family and business creates risks that deserve early attention. Common issues include:

  • Taxes that force unwanted sales or transfers
  • Creditor claims or legal exposure that puts assets at risk
  • Family disagreements that disrupt both relationships and operations

A few steady steps create strong protection:

  • Maintain liquidity outside the business, whether in cash, investments, or well-structured insurance. This allows you to cover taxes, buyouts, or emergencies without selling the company under pressure.
  • Use trusts, buy-sell agreements, and thoughtful entity structuring to guide future transfers and shield assets.
  • Consider including philanthropy in your long-term plan. A donor-advised fund or small family foundation can reinforce shared values and create a sense of continuity across generations.

Closing Thought

A business that continues beyond the founder does not happen on its own. It takes the same discipline and focus that helped you build it in the first place, along with a willingness to plan ahead. Starting now makes the future smoother for your family, your employees, and the community that has supported the business.

Set the conversations in motion. Organize the systems. Put the right protections in place. With steady, thoughtful planning, your business can keep creating opportunity long after you step back from day-to-day leadership.

You built something meaningful. With some planning and clarity, you can help it last.

Learn more at maine.bank/wealth.

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About the author

As Chief Client Development Officer at Maine Community Bank, Kim Donnelly provides strategic direction for cash management services, residential and consumer lending, as well as the Bank’s wealth management division. She also oversees the bank’s partnership with Bigelow Investment Advisors.

 

 

 

 

Portland, Maine – October 29, 2025 – The Biddeford, Gorham, and Mechanics Savings Foundation, one of the philanthropic arms of Maine Community Bank, has pledged $40,000 to food banks across southern Maine. Combined with recent contributions to Good Shepherd Food Bank and several smaller community organizations, the Bank’s total support for hunger relief in 2025 now exceeds $60,000. 

The funds will be distributed over the next several weeks to food pantries and hunger relief programs within the bank’s footprint. The initiative comes at a time when Maine families are facing increased pressure due to ongoing challenges with federal SNAP and WIC programs. 

“Food insecurity continues to affect too many of our neighbors,” said Steve deCastro, CEO of Maine Community Bank. “As a community bank, we believe it’s our responsibility to help ensure that families in our towns have access to basic needs like healthy, affordable food. We encourage anyone who can to consider giving to their local food bank this season.” 

The Foundation’s commitment builds on Maine Community Bank’s mission to strengthen the communities it serves through health, housing, hunger, and aspiring youth. The Foundation works to help the next generation overcome inequality and build unity across diverse communities.  

To learn more about how Maine Community Bank supports local organizations or to find a food bank near you, visit www.mainecommunitybank.com/foundation. 

About the newly combined Maine Community Bank 

Headquartered in Portland, Maine Community Bank is the largest mutual savings bank operating exclusively in the state, with nearly $3 billion in assets and 21 branches across Androscoggin, Cumberland, and York counties. Formed from the merger of Gorham Savings Bank and Maine Community Bank—two of Maine’s longest-standing community banks with rich 150+ year heritages—the bank combines the strengths of both institutions to create an even stronger, more capable, and more convenient institution for Maine families, businesses, and communities. 

As the only bank headquartered in Cumberland County, Maine Community Bank is a depositor-owned institution committed to local decision-making and offering a comprehensive suite of both personal and business financial services, as well as wealth management.  

Committed to the well-being of its communities, Maine Community Bank annually contributes thousands of volunteer hours and financial resources to community-based initiatives. By investing in local partnerships that promote financial literacy, stimulate economic growth, and foster entrepreneurship, the bank strengthens the fabric of the communities it serves. Learn more at maine.bank. 

PFAS testing company from Norridgewock tops field of five finalists; others recognized for innovation and impact.

 

PORTLAND, Maine – October 22, 2025 – Maine Community Bank has named Maine Laboratories the winner of its 2025 LaunchPad small business competition, earning the company the bank’s $50,000 grant to expand its PFAS testing services for homes and businesses. 

Now in its 12th year, and its first under the Maine Community Bank banner, LaunchPad celebrates Maine entrepreneurs building innovative, high-impact companies. Five finalists pitched live at the University of New England’s Innovation Hall in Portland: 

  • CarHop (Portland) – A no-commission food-delivery platform strengthening relationships between restaurants and customers. 
  • Dunstan Smokehouse (Scarborough) – Turning underutilized Maine seafood into premium smoked products. 
  • Maine Laboratories (Norridgewock) – Making PFAS testing accessible for homeowners and offering scalable commercial solutions. 
  • Maine Love (Westbrook) – A beverage company using Maine’s clean water and creative flavor partnerships to grow. 
  • UniteGPS (South Portland) – Building a patent-pending transportation management system for school districts nationwide. 

Judges praised Maine Laboratories for its measurable impact on public health, strong year-over-year growth, and ability to translate complex science into accessible solutions. 

“Katie Richards and her team are doing critical work for our communities,” said Steve deCastro, CEO of Maine Community Bank. “Their growth, mission, and leadership embody the spirit of LaunchPad—entrepreneurs building a better future for Maine through innovation and hard work.” 

Caption (L to R): LaunchPad judge John Burns of the University of Maine with Maine Community Bank CEO Steve deCastro, judge Kristine Delano, $50,000 grant winner Katie Richards of Maine Laboratories, judge Kate McAleer of Bixby Chocolate, and Katie Grant, LaunchPad emcee and Commercial Banker.

All finalists received a $1,000 award and complimentary 90-day memberships to the Roux Institute at Northeastern University, providing access to its entrepreneurship resources, AI tools, and workspace in Portland. 

Maine Community Bank also honored an entrepreneur in the Emerging Business Award category. From a group of five additional finalists selected from LaunchPad applicants, Freeport-based Dirigo Sea Farm earned the distinction, along with a $10,000 cash grant from MCB and $10,000 in in-kind marketing, business development, and public relations services from Creative Imaging Group, Grove Marketing, iBec Creative, Nu-Yar, and Philbrook PR. Jay and Jennifer Yilmaz, owners of the Applewood Inn in Freeport, generously contributed an additional $1,000 to the Emerging Business Award, raising the total cash prize to $11,000. Maine Community Bank also awarded $500 grants to the remaining finalists—CIVA, Hoopsy, Industry, and Memory Lane TV—in recognition of their innovation and participation in this year’s competition.  

Caption (L to R): Emerging Business Award winner, Alexa McGovern of Dirigo Sea Farm, with Maine Community Bank’s Katie Grant, Commercial Banker and LaunchPad emcee, and CEO Steve deCastro.

About the newly combined Maine Community Bank
Headquartered in Portland, Maine Community Bank is the largest mutual savings bank operating exclusively in the state, with nearly $3 billion in assets and 21 branches across Androscoggin, Cumberland, and York counties. Formed from the merger of Gorham Savings Bank and Maine Community Bank—two of Maine’s longest-standing community banks with rich 150+ year heritages—the bank combines the strengths of both institutions to create an even stronger, more capable, and more convenient institution for Maine families, businesses, and communities. 

As the only bank headquartered in Cumberland County, Maine Community Bank is a depositor-owned institution committed to local decision-making and offering a comprehensive suite of both personal and business financial services, as well as wealth management.  

Committed to the well-being of its communities, Maine Community Bank annually contributes thousands of volunteer hours and financial resources to community-based initiatives. By investing in local partnerships that promote financial literacy, stimulate economic growth, and foster entrepreneurship, the bank strengthens the fabric of the communities it serves. Learn more at maine.bank. 

 

Maine Community Bank has announced the finalists for its annual LaunchPad small business competition, where one company will earn a $50,000 grant to scale its innovative venture.

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2025 marks the first year of LaunchPad under Maine Community Bank, following its merger of equals with Gorham Savings Bank on January 1st. Since 2013, LaunchPad has awarded nearly $600,000 in no-strings-attached grants to Maine’s most innovative small businesses, from AI-powered startups to sustainable seafood ventures. 

PORTLAND, Maine | July 14, 2025 — Maine Community Bank launched the 2025 application for its 12th annual LaunchPad small business competition today, offering Maine-based entrepreneurs a chance to earn a $50,000 grant from the bank to scale up their innovative ventures.

“We believe in supporting entrepreneurship and helping local small businesses prosper,” said Steve deCastro, CEO of Maine Community Bank. “For over a decade, LaunchPad has proudly empowered early-stage Maine companies with funding, visibility, and local connections—the essentials for fostering a thriving business community.”

Application Process

The application process opens today, July 14, online at MCBlaunchpad.com with a submission deadline of Thursday, August 14 at 5:00pm.

Finalist Selection and Live Pitch Event

A returning panel of distinguished judges, including John Burns, Kristine Delano, and Kate McAleer, former LaunchPad winner, will evaluate finalists based on viability, scalability, uniqueness, management, impact, and their all-important pitch at the October 21 live event.

  • John Burns: Director of Corporate Engagement at the University of Maine, Burns brings over 30 years of institutional investing experience. He has guided investments in over 40 Maine companies, fostering high-growth ventures in tech and sustainability.
  • Kristine Delano: Wall Street veteran, strategic advisor, board director and podcast host: Delano has deep expertise in economic development and small business financing, supporting Maine’s entrepreneurs through strategic investments and mentorship.
  • Kate McAleer: Founder and CEO of Bixby Chocolates, McAleer is a successful Maine entrepreneur with a track record of scaling a craft food business, offering insights into innovation and market growth. She was the Bank’s 2014 LauchPad winner.

Finalists will be notified in late September. The live pitch competition will take place on Tuesday, October 21 at the University of New England’s Innovation Hall in Portland, preceded by a 4:30pm social gathering. Finalists will pitch to the judges, with the $50,000 LaunchPad Grant and Emerging Business Award winners announced at the event’s conclusion.

Awards

The aim of the Bank’s $50,000 no-strings-attached grant is to empower the winning business to scale their vision. For example, 2024 winner Alivo used the prize money to hire two full-time positions to meet growing customer demand. The Emerging Business Award offers a $10,000 grant plus $10,000 in in-kind services (business development, marketing, and PR) from iBec Creative, Creative Imagine Group, Grove Marketing, Philbrook Public Relations, and Nu-Yar. Five additional finalists will showcase 60-second pitch videos during the live event to compete for this prize.

Apply Now

Maine-based small business owners are encouraged to apply or recommend others. Visit MCBlaunchpad.com for details and to submit applications by 5:00pm on August 14.

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About the newly combined Maine Community Bank

Headquartered in Portland, Maine Community Bank is the largest mutual savings bank operating exclusively in the state, with nearly $3 billion in assets and 21 branches across Androscoggin, Cumberland, and York counties. Formed from the merger of Gorham Savings Bank and Maine Community Bank—two of Maine’s longest-standing community banks with rich 150+ year heritages—the Bank combines the strengths of both institutions to create an even stronger, more capable, and more convenient institution for Maine families, businesses, and communities.

As the only bank headquartered in Cumberland County, Maine Community Bank is a depositor-owned institution committed to local decision-making and offering a comprehensive suite of both personal and business financial services, as well as wealth management.

Committed to the well-being of its communities, Maine Community Bank annually contributes thousands of volunteer hours and financial resources to community-based initiatives. By investing in local partnerships that promote financial literacy, stimulate economic growth, and foster entrepreneurship, the bank strengthens the fabric of the communities it serves. Learn more at maine.bank.

PORTLAND, Maine – The Maine Marathon is excited to announce that Maine Community Bank has signed on as the title sponsor for the next five years. Additionally, the race is thrilled to reveal the 2025 primary beneficiaries: In Her Presence, Grahamtastic Connection, and Children’s Odyssey. Each of these exceptional Maine-based nonprofit organizations will receive $20,000 from the proceeds of this year’s nonprofit, all-volunteer race, set for Sunday, October 5, 2025, in Portland.

The Maine Community Bank Maine Marathon, Half Marathon, and Relay, a celebrated annual event organized by the Maine Track Club, continues its tradition of supporting local charities that make a meaningful impact in the community. This year’s beneficiaries were selected for their dedication to empowering and uplifting Maine residents, particularly children and families, through innovative programs and services.

  • In Her Presence: Based in Westbrook, In Her Presence supports immigrant women by providing English language education, cultural integration resources, and community-building opportunities. Their mission to empower women to thrive in their new home aligns with the marathon’s commitment to fostering wellness and inclusion.
  • Grahamtastic Connection: Located in Springvale, Grahamtastic Connection provides free laptops, tablets, and internet access to seriously ill children, enabling them to stay connected with school, friends, and family during treatment. Their work ensures that Maine’s youngest patients maintain vital educational and emotional support.
  • Children’s Odyssey: Operating in Portland, Children’s Odyssey offers high-quality early childhood education and care, focusing on children from diverse backgrounds. Their programs promote learning, growth, and development, laying a strong foundation for future success.

“Every year, I am impressed and thrilled by the organizations selected by the beneficiary committee members. I look forward to working with them in 2025 to raise even more funds through other opportunities the event offers. It’s also exciting to see our valued collaboration with Gorham Savings Bank carry forward through their merger of equals with Maine Community Bank,” said Bob Dunfey, volunteer race director, Maine Community Bank Maine Marathon.

The Maine Community Bank Maine Marathon unites runners and supporters in a shared mission to uplift local causes. Since its launch, the event has channeled millions to Maine nonprofits, funneling all profits—after covering race costs—directly to its beneficiaries. Beyond the $20,000 grants awarded to this year’s primary recipients, participants can boost these organizations, or a charity they choose, through the “Run For A Cause” fundraising initiative.

The Marathon has raised nearly $8 million for charity since 1997. Each year, the volunteer organizers of the Marathon select a group of charitable organizations in our community to receive proceeds from the race.

The 2025 race will feature a scenic, USATF-certified course, and an official Boston Marathon qualifying event, showcasing Portland’s skyline, Back Cove, Casco Bay, and vibrant fall foliage. Participants can choose from the full marathon, half marathon, or marathon relay, with registration now open at MaineMarathon.com. Beneficiaries play a key role by providing volunteers to assist with race-day operations, from water stations to course support, ensuring a successful event for all.

“We’re proud to support an event that not only promotes health and wellness but also uplifts organizations making a real difference in our communities,” said Steve deCastro, CEO of Maine Community Bank, the event’s title sponsor. “Together, we’re all in on Maine.”

For more information about the Maine Community Bank Marathon, to register, or to learn more about the 2025 beneficiaries, visit Maine Marathon.

About the Maine Track Club
The Maine Track Club, the state’s largest running club with over 500 members, has organized the Maine Marathon since 1997. As a nonprofit, volunteer-run organization, the club is committed to promoting running and raising funds for local charities.

About the newly combined Maine Community Bank

Headquartered in Portland, Maine Community Bank is the largest mutual savings bank operating exclusively in the state, with nearly $3 billion in assets and 21 branches across Androscoggin, Cumberland, and York counties. Formed from the merger of Gorham Savings Bank and Maine Community Bank—two of Maine’s longest-standing community banks with rich 150+ year heritages—the bank combines the strengths of both institutions to create an even stronger, more capable, and more convenient institution for Maine families, businesses, and communities.

As the only bank headquartered in Cumberland County, Maine Community Bank is a depositor-owned institution committed to local decision-making and offering a comprehensive suite of both personal and business financial services, as well as wealth management.

Committed to the well-being of its communities, Maine Community Bank annually contributes thousands of volunteer hours and financial resources to community-based initiatives. By investing in local partnerships that promote financial literacy, stimulate economic growth, and foster entrepreneurship, the bank strengthens the fabric of the communities it serves. Learn more at Maine.bank.