ID: three volunteers wearing festive, red holiday wear
We are so thankful for the incredible community that makes STRIVE such a special place to be every day. Here’s to growth, learning, community, independence, inclusion, fun, and endless possibilities in 2026!
ID: volunteer checking in with participant who is painting on a canvas easel
Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to get more involved in your community? Make 2026 the year you volunteer with STRIVE! We offer a variety of opportunities to get involved, whether you’d like to directly support in one of our programs, help at an event, organize a community board game or material drive, bring your corporate group for a day of service, or serve on a committee. We love welcoming new volunteers into the STRIVE family, and we’re always open to hearing your ideas on how you’d like to contribute!
ID: three volunteers wearing fun props and STRIVE Rocks t-shirts at a photobooth
Join us at a social! We’re always looking for volunteers to support our Tweens, STRIVE Night, STRIVE 25, and Senior Socials. Enjoy meaningful time with our participants in a fun, safe environment—play games, support karaoke, help in the kitchen, and more!
Share your expertise by teaching a class! Have knowledge or skills you’d like to share? We welcome guest speakers for our Wednesday Night Educational Series, which focus on independent living skills. We also invite guest instructors to lead art lessons through our STRIVE Studios program.
ID: group of unum volunteers posing in front of a colorful wall
Bring your team for a day of service!
Looking for a meaningful team-building opportunity? Bring your team or corporate group to STRIVE for a day of service and make a real impact in our community.
Become part of a committee! Help plan and organize some of our biggest events of the year or join our monthly networking group to support STRIVE’s mission.
Lend a hand at a fundraiser! Extra support is always appreciated at major events like STRIVE Rocks, STRIVE for 5: Foden Road 5K, and our annual auction.
Interested in volunteering or have other ways you'd like to support STRIVE? Contact STRIVE Program Director Alex at awoodhouse@pslstrive.org to get started—we’d love to have you join us!
PROGRAMS
STRIVE U
STRIVE U Snowflake Social Open House
STRIVE U is hosting a winter themed open house on Saturday, January 10, and we would love to welcome prospective students and their supporters. The Snowflake Social is a drop in event, so guests are invited to stop by anytime between 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. to explore campus spaces, meet our community, and learn what life at STRIVE U is really like.
The event will include light snacks, warm drinks, games, and a fun photobooth. Staff and students will be available throughout the morning to answer questions and share their experiences in a relaxed and friendly setting.
This is a great opportunity for individuals who are exploring post-secondary options to get a feel for STRIVE U and see if it might be a good fit.
We hope to see you there!
ID: white background with blue snowflakes along the top. There are two silver bears on the bottom and information about STRIVE U's snowflake social in the center.
STRIVE U is a comprehensive two-year residential, post-secondary educational opportunity for residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities. To learn more about the program, schedule a tour, or get an application, please contact admissions@pslstrive.org or call 207.774.6278.
December at TOPS has been filled with fun and exciting learning opportunities. Students continue to create art, make crafts, do coloring pages, and enjoy being creative overall. Students have been practicing skills such as meal planning and budgeting, shopping at Hannaford, and cooking food for parties and their own lunches. Students really enjoy learning how to pay for and take the metro to a variety of Portland and South Portland locations. Additionally, students continue to enjoy volunteering at local organizations, such as Preble Street, Common Space, MSSPA, and Ronald McDonald Charity Houses. These volunteer sites provide students with opportunities to practice real-life job skills and communication with supervisors.
Students really love planning and participating in holiday parties at TOPS. This month we also had a few special instructors. The American Red Cross sent a few instructors to teach students about fire safety and hands-only CPR. Additionally, Maine Academy of Modern Music sent an instructor to teach our students about rhythm and instrument identification during a music class. TOPS continues to provide enriching and meaningful experiences that enhance our students' lives.
Happy Holidays to everyone from TOPS!
ID: two students chopping potatoes
ID: student shopping Five Below
ID: student sitting on the bus looking back at the camera
ID: student holding a tamborine
ID: two students practicing hands onlyCPR
ID: group of TOPS students sitting on and around a red couch, posing with photo props
TOPS (Transition Outcomes Program for Students) provides transition programming for high school students from area school districts who are typically 18 years and older. For more information, please contact Anne Ryan at aryan@pslstrive.org or 207.879.0847.
Start the new year off with STRIVE WorldWIDE! Our January course schedule is below—sign up today! Interested in planning your year ahead? Our full 2026 calendar is out as well!
Below are two important links as you get started on your STRIVE WorldWIDE journey as well:
ID: January STRIVE WorldWIDE course schedule with days, times, and topics
ID: flyer with 2026 course calendar information. STRIVE WorldWIDE logo is in the top left
STRIVE WorldWIDE is STRIVE's online program that teaches independent living skills. For more information about STRIVE WorldWIDE, contact Courtney Veinotte at cveinotte@pslstrive.org or 207.712.0048.
As we wrap up another active year here at STRIVE Bayside, we reflect on the many memorable moments we've shared. This year, we celebrated participants who graduated and moved on to new adventures, and we were delighted to welcome new members to our community—most recently, Eli, who joined us this month. We also extend a warm welcome to our two newest staff members, Abi and Jacob.
December has been a wonderful time of connection as we’ve gotten to know one another and prepared for the holidays. From decorating the Christmas tree to cooking together, we've enjoyed gathering around the dining room table and sharing good food and great company. This year, we prepared a delicious ham dinner with mashed potatoes and vegetables, and one of our participants even treated us to homemade zucchini bread—a true highlight.
We are grateful for the joy, growth, and accomplishments of 2025, and we look forward with excitement to everything 2026 will bring.
Happy New Year!
For more information on Bayside, please contact Community Support Program Director Veerle Pottie at vpottie@pslstrive.org.
Community Support enjoyed a joyful and active holiday season! Participants ventured out into the community to take part in festive experiences, including ice skating, holiday shopping, and a memorable performance of The Nutcracker at Merrill Auditorium. We wrapped up December with our holiday party, where everyone came together to socialize, enjoy a delicious feast, and make music as a group. It was a wonderful way to close out a great year, and we’re excited to see what 2026 has in store!
ID: selfie of the reflection of a staff and two participants in an ornament on a Christmas tree
ID: participants sitting and playing a variety of instruments
ID: participants sitting and playing instruments
For more information on ACTIVE or WAVES, please contact Community Support Program Director Veerle Pottie at vpottie@pslstrive.org.
This December, STRIVE Studios hosted our second art exhibition of the year! We were proud to share the creativity and hard work of the past few months, featuring paintings, drawings, ceramics, photography, and other projects. In addition to prepping for the show, participants have continued to work on paintings and thank you cards for STRIVE’s donors. We're excited to continue creating and sharing our art in the New Year!
ID: participant painting a black landscape on a canvas painting of a sunset
For more information on STRIVE Studios, please contact Community Support Program Director Veerle Pottie at vpottie@pslstrive.org.
STRIVE’s Tuesday Studio Series offers a variety of artistic classes designed to explore different mediums and foster creativity. These classes are for artists ages 15–24 with intellectual and developmental disabilities and are held every Tuesday evening from 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Stay up to date with future course offerings by visiting our website!
The Tuesday Studio Series is held Tuesdays in person at our STRIVE Studio location for participants 15–24 years old. Series length, cost, and topics vary month to month. For more information or to join a class, contact STRIVE Studios Coordinator Liam Rademacher at lrademacher@pslstrive.org.
Our next Wednesday Night Educational Series is on healthy relationships! In this series, which runs from January through February, students will learn all about different kinds of relationships, boundaries, consent, the human body, resources available to them, and more. This six-week series is taught by STRIVE staff and guest teachers from Planned Parenthood. Learn more here and register now!
ID: pink background with program information at the center, bottom, and middle right sides. A drawing of a boy playing guitar for a girl is the in the bottom left.
The Wednesday Night Educational Series is held every Wednesday in person for participants 15–24 years old. Series are between 4–8 weeks long, and topics vary from month to month. The price per series is $30–$50, depending on the series' length. For more information or to join a class, contact Liv at opardi@pslstrive.org.
Camp STRIVE's winter break camp provided a number of wonderful ways to celebrate the season together! Campers enjoyed a fun-filled week packed with creative winter crafts, local adventures, and holiday-themed activities. From cozy art workshops and gingerbread house decorating to indoor obstacle courses and New Year’s games, there was something for everyone to enjoy!
Our campers also took part in exciting outings, including trips to L.L. Bean, snowshoeing, sledding at Payson Park, and a special visit to see the chocolate moose! Whether spending time indoors creating and playing or heading out for seasonal adventures, Camp STRIVE was full of smiles, laughter, and memorable moments. We’re so glad we could share such a fun and festive break together!
ID: Camp STRIVE campers posing together before going snowshoeing!
Camp STRIVE is a day camp for campers between the ages of 11–24. Camp STRIVE is held every school vacation (Winter, February, and April) as well as for the full summer. For more information about Camp STRIVE, contact Liv at opardi@pslstrive.org.
Tweens
Get ready to go wild this January🐾 Tweens will embark on exciting Animal Adventures all month long as we explore the animal kingdom through hands-on activities, creative projects, and tons of fun, active games. From furry friends to fascinating creatures, each Friday will bring a new adventure to discover. Check out the schedule below and join us for a month full of exploration and excitement!
January 2: "Animal Olympics" Get moving with fun, animal-themed movements and aim for gold!
January 9: "Creature Crafts" Creative freedom to use varied mediums and bring your favorite animal to life
January 16: Bunny Sanctuary Visit Our friends at Rocky Coast Bunny Sanctuary will visit with some furry friends!
January 23: Animal Games and Challenges Exciting animal-themed games and obstacle course challenges
January 30: Habitat Building Explore types of animal habitats and then build your own!
ID: animal drawings with leaves, hearts, and stars with Tweens information in the center and at the top over the images
Tweens is a safe and fun environment to build new friendships and learn new skills for folks 11–14 years old. Tweens programming runs every Friday from 3:30–5:30 p.m. We have a scheduled activity each week, with free time built in to maximize socialization. For more information aboutTweens, contact Liv at opardi@pslstrive.org.
December was a joyful and festive month of STRIVE Nights! From creative activities to seasonal celebrations, our Friday nights were filled with laughter, connection, and plenty of holiday cheer. It was wonderful to see everyone come together to close out the year by spending time with friends, sharing smiles, and enjoying the spirit of the season. Special thank you to all who joined us for our STRIVE Night anniversary party—it was truly so wonderful to see you all!
Now, as we move into January, we’re excited to kick off the new year with fresh energy and fun at STRIVE Nights. This month will focus on reconnecting after the holidays, building new friendships, and settling back into our routines—while still keeping Friday nights exciting and engaging. Whether we’re playing games, getting creative, or just enjoying time together, we’re looking forward to a great start to the year and can’t wait to see everyone there!
ID: white background with festive green and blue snowflakes around the edges, STRIVE Night information in the center over a light blue text box
Friday Night at STRIVE, fondly referred to as "STRIVE Night," is a relaxed but fun evening of socialization for 15–24 year olds. New members are always welcome, and your first night is free! STRIVE Night is Friday from 6:00–9:00 p.m., with at least one special "theme" night happening each month. For more information, contact Liv at opardi@pslstrive.org.
December was a wonderful way to close out the year at STRIVE 25! After a heartwarming November filled with gratitude, we loved continuing the season by spending time together, sharing laughs, and strengthening friendships. These gatherings wouldn’t be the same without our incredible community, and we’re so thankful for everyone who joins us each month.
Now, as January begins, we’re excited to start the new year together with another fun and meaningful STRIVE 25 event on Thursday, January 8. Join us for a delicious meal, engaging activities, and plenty of opportunities to reconnect after the holidays. We look forward to welcoming everyone back and kicking off the year with friendship, laughter, and community.
ID: participants posing together in front of the Christmas tree at the holiday party
ID: participants posing with volunteers and staff
STRIVE 25 is a social event for folks 25 and older. It currently runs in-person on the first Thursday of every month from 6:00–8:00 p.m. For more information on STRIVE 25, contact Liv at opardi@pslstrive.org!
Join us for the next STRIVE Senior Social on Tuesday, January 6 from 3:00–4:30 p.m.—we can't wait to see you there!
ID: blue background with falling snow, a snowman, and two snow covered trees along the bottom. There is more snow and pinecones along the top
STRIVE's Senior Social is a social event for individuals 55 and up. It takes place in-person on the first Tuesday of every month from 3:00–4:30 p.m. For more information on STRIVE Senior Social, contact Abby at abohlen@pslstrive.org.
ID: STRIVE staff and Patriot Subaru staff standing behind a table with ice cream sundae toppings
STRIVE has been selected as one of the beneficiaries of Patriot Subaru's Share the Love event again! From now until January 2nd, for each new sold or leased vehicle, Subaru will donate $250 to a local charity (STRIVE is one of them!) and Patriot Subaru will donate an additional $75. Find out more HERE! Thank you to Patriot Subaru for all you to for STRIVE and the rest of our communities!
3 Points for STRIVE
ID: basketball swishing through a net in the top left. In the center are logos for STRIVE, Maine Celtics, and Hammond Lumber
Cheer on your favorite basketball team while supporting STRIVE at the same time! The Maine Celtics and Hammond Lumber Company are teaming up again for 3-Points for STRIVE! For every 3-Pointer made at home, Hammond Lumber will donate $50 to STRIVE. Make your own pledge today by visiting our website! Thank you to Hammond Lumber and the Maine Celtics for supporting STRIVE again this winter!
STRIVE Shout Outs
Thank you to our December Donors!
Beverly Sherman
Dr. Jeffrey Saffer
Melissa Whittum
John Opperman
Charles Lerch
Ray Pena
Irene Koffink - In Memory of Joyce Provencher
Lois Ann Winter
William Mariski
Jeanne Doody
Christina Bourdeaux
Richard Borts
Donald Whittum
Gerri Bridgman
Maria Eisemann
Karen Driscoll - In Memory of Joyce Provencher
Cindy Veilleux
Jessica Gagne - In Honor of Niko Gagne
Mark Condon
Jamie Cooper
Susan Samberg
Albert Marston
Sarah Martin - In Memory of Joyce Provencher
Tom and Carol Brewster
Minna Brewster
Susan Bouton - In Memory of Sally Bouton
Lorraine Twombly
Anne Button - In Honor of Bennett Agnew
Shari Chaney
Roberta O'Brion
Knights of Columbus
Barry Dunlap - In Honor of Caleb Dunlap
Stephen Salt
Faye Gmeiner
Begin Family Foundation
Samantha Leavitt
Amy Lombardo
Aqeel AlHashimi
John Lambert Jr
Laurie Cavanaugh
Susan Samberg - In Honor of Staff
Peter Lowe and Cathy Nugent
David Stender III
John Burke
ID: STRIVE participant smiling and holding a colorful sign that says "thank you." Games in the STRIVE Teen Center are behind him.
Thank you for your generous support of STRIVE!
With your support, we are able to continue our work each and every day.
Staff Spotlight
ID: photo of Natalie. She is standing outside with green trees in the background.
Meet Natalie! Natalie is a Direct Support Professional in our Community Supports program! Natalie says "my favorite part about STRIVE is working with all the lovely participants and getting to do new activities in the community. I love watching the growth that takes place here on a daily basis. My favorite activity is taking my group ice-skating!" Thanks, Natalie, we're glad you're on the team!
Member Spotlight
Meet Thorin! Thorin attends our STRIVE Night program, Tuesday Studio Series, and Wednesday Night Education. Thorin's favorite parts of Friday nights at STRIVE are "basketball, karaoke, hanging out with friends, and watching wrestling!"
Thanks, Thorin, we're thankful you're a part of our community!
ID: photo of Joseph at our Foden Road location
Happy Birthday to you!
Happy birthday to our STRIVE Members with birthdays in January!
ID: Colorful happy birthday candles on a chocolate cake
Jordan Young
Sumner Ellis
Peter Tarling
Leeann Brionez
Marshall Noyes
Nicholas Veilleux
Lisa DeFreitas
Timothy Kerr
Charlie Gilbert
Abby Healy
Trever Ashbaugh
Emily Murray
Grayson Randall
Bryan Thomas
Cassandra Mathis
Noah Kent
General Announcements
Join Our Team!
We're Hiring!
ID: Hand with marker writing We Are HiringI
Are you or someone you know in the market for a new job?
We're hiring for a number of positions!
We have full-time, part-time, and per diem opportunities available—including weekdays, evenings, and weekends!
We are also offering a $1,500 sign on bonus ($500 paid after 30 days and new hire is billable, and $1000 paid after 6 months of employment and all initial training is completed) plus an additional $250 bonus for those that are already DSP, MHRT, or CRMA certified!
ID: Image of business partners discussing at a meeting table
Did you know we host a free monthly networking group for our local community? The STRIVE Business to Business Networking Group is just one way we work to be a mutually beneficial partner, with the hope of expanding our partnerships with local businesses.
We are looking to grow! The group meets virtually on the last Wednesday the month at noon. Contact Alex or Whitney to find out more about joining us this month!
Hope to see you at an upcoming meeting!
ID: blue flyer with information about the STRIVE Business to Business Networking Group
Shop STRIVE!
We have an online store to purchase all your STRIVE swag needs! Take a look at all the shop has to offer—there are so many items to choose from AND you can customize any item by choosing the color and STRIVE logo that you want. Happy shopping!
ID: white background with two rows of swag. Top row (left to right) shows a gray backpack with the STRIVE WorldWIDE logo, a black mug with the STRIVECast logo, a white t-shirt with the STRIVE logo, and a blue baseball hat with a STRIVE U logo. Bottom row (left to right) shows a blue tote bag with a PSL Services/STRIVE logo, a gray sweatshirt with a STRIVE U logo, and a white travel mug with a STRIVE logo.
Listen to the STRIVECast
ID: STRIVECast flyer with images of our two hosts and sound and video engineer.
The STRIVECast is a podcast brought to you by the team at PSL Services/STRIVE in South Portland, Maine—bringing you engaging, hilarious, and thoughtful conversation through one interview week by week. Co-hosted by two young men with Down Syndrome, the STRIVECast aims to change the voices we typically hear on the radio and in podcasts, as well as to provide meaningful dialogues with all sorts of public figures in our world. We are very proud to be both hosted, produced, AND edited by people with disabilities!
Have questions or comments about any of our programs and events?
Email info@pslstrive.org to update your address or speak to a STRIVE staff member!
New members: You will be asked to complete an updated membership form upon your arrival to Tweens, STRIVE Night, or STRIVE 25. Want to get a head start? Visit https://pslstrive.org/strive-membership-form to submit your membership form today!
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