Thrive2027 is three 10-year goals created by and for the community. They are grounded in data and reflect the hopes and dreams of thousands throughout Cumberland County. They provide a clear, unifying path forward to a better future for everyone.
Headline Indicator: By 2027, 70% of children read proficiently at the end of third grade
Baseline: 59% of children read proficiently at the end of third grade
Benchmark: 61% of children read proficiently at the end of 3rd grade
Headline Indicator: By 2027, 70% of households pay less than 30% of their income on housing
Baseline: 65% of households pay less than 30% of their income on housing
2021 Benchmark: 68% of households pay less than 30% of their income on housing
Headline Indicator: By 2027, reduce preventable premature deaths by 10%
Baseline: 5,400 Years of Potential Life Lost per 100,000 people
2021 Benchmark: 5,400 Years of Potential Life Lost per 100,000 people
Goals
Our Vision
Southern Maine is an inclusive, caring, and collaborative community that focuses its resources strategically so that everyone grows and prospers through enhanced educational opportunities, financial stability, and healthy living.
10 Year Community Goals
GOAL 1
GIVE KIDS A STRONG START
By 2027, 70% of children read proficiently at the end of third gradeYancel attends Avesta Housing’s weekly Remote Learning Program where he has access to high-speed internet, PPE, tutors, and meals. This collaboration between Avesta, Westbrook School Department, The Opportunity Alliance, Intercultural Community Center, and others is funded by UWSM’s Brick & Beam Society.
GOAL 2
EMPOWERING NEIGHBORS TO THRIVE - NOT JUST SURVIVE
By 2027, 70% of households pay less than 30% of their income on housingNelma had been searching for work with no luck for nearly two months when she discovered Street Academy, a UWSM program partner. Through their Learn to Earn program, which helps young people get work experience, Nelma was connected with her first job at Preble Street’s Resource Center.
GOAL 3
HELP US ALL LIVE LONGER, BETTER
By 2027, reduce preventable premature deaths by 10%HOME Team seeks out individuals experiencing homelessness or substance use disorder and provides food and water, connections to services, or sometimes simply a conversation. Through support from UWSM, HOME Team has increased access to medical and substance use care through medical care referrals.