MANP and Maine Community Foundation Launch Workforce Support Program for Small Nonprofits

The Maine Association of Nonprofits (MANP), in partnership with the Maine Community Foundation (MaineCF) and KGA, is launching a free Employee Assistance Program (EAP) designed to support the health, wellbeing and resilience of Maine’s nonprofit workforce. This new benefit will provide small nonprofits with free access to professional, confidential support for staff and leaders to address personal or work-related challenges that may affect their job performance, health or overall wellness.

“Maine’s nonprofit employees are on the front lines of community support, often juggling high demands with limited resources,” said Jennifer Hutchins, Executive Director of MANP. “Thanks to the generous support of the Maine Community Foundation, this EAP program is one way we can care for the people who care for Maine.”

“The Maine Community Foundation partners with nonprofits to help strengthen communities in all corners of the state,” said Laura Lee, vice president of community impact at MaineCF. “MaineCF’s investment in the EAP will support hardworking staff of small nonprofits who dedicate their careers to serving others.”

Addressing Critical Needs in Small Nonprofits

Small nonprofit organizations face unique challenges when it comes to supporting staff wellness. Only about one-third of Maine nonprofit employers report they currently have access to EAP services (2024 Report on Nonprofit Wages + Benefits in Maine, Maine Association of Nonprofits). Rising health care costs, increased personal stress and limited organizational capacity make it difficult for small teams to access high-quality support. This program helps fill this gap by providing employees with a platform where support is only a phone call, text or click away.

How the Program Works

The EAP offers confidential, 24/7 access to a robust array of services for nonprofit employees. The support available includes:

• Confidential counseling and coaching for employees and adult household members
• Support for supervisors managing workplace concerns or critical incidents
• Resources for managing stress, work-life balance, financial or legal challenges, grief, and more
• Online training and tools to build leadership skills and foster resilience

This pilot reflects a broader commitment to strengthen Maine’s nonprofit sector by investing in the people who power our communities.

Next Steps for Interested Organizations

The program is open to eligible MANP members on a first-come, first-served basis. (MANP offers scholarships and dues flexibility to organizations that may need assistance to join).

Nonprofits interested in signing up for the EAP are encouraged to first join an informational session on Jan. 15, 2026, from 1-2 p.m. 

Sign up for an information session
January 15, 2026, 1pm-2pm

About the Partnership

This pilot program offered through MANP is made possible through the generous support of the Maine Community Foundation (MaineCF) and reflects the organizations’ shared commitment to the well-being of Maine's nonprofit workforce. Funders interested in helping to expand the pilot are invited to join the partnership and bring this critical support to more small nonprofits. Please contact djagde@nonprofitmaine.org with your interest.