Our forum’s focus will be on 1) difficult situations where people become or remain in poverty, 2) programs for working towards independence from public assistance, and 3) ways we can support these programs.

Karen Wyman is Education and Legal Advocacy Coordinator for the Maine Equal Justice Program. It is the leading expert in the state on federal and state policies for Maine’s anti-poverty programs and works in partnership with people living in poverty to organize and advocate for just laws and policies. Karen will speak about the functions of her program as well as how the public can offer support.

Cheryl Golek is one of the founders of Vicarage by the Sea, a long-term care home for those living with dementia. Her early life was marked by poverty, and her present life by financial security. She understands the economic realities that Mainers face and what real solutions to poverty can be. She is a member of the Equal Justice Partners’ Circle that helps Mainers who have experienced poverty to develop leadership and advocacy skills.

Susan Emmerling has worked with Head Start in Maine for forty years and brings to us a wealth of experience. Currently Family Services Coordinator, she works with families of all ages including grandparents raising grandchildren. She helps them find appropriate resources, linking them to health care programs for which they are eligible, even providing transportation to doctors and dentists appointments.