PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Aroostook Aspirations Initiative is one of four recipients to receive the 2017 Champion of Economic Development Award from Maine Development Foundation.
The award was created to recognize exceptional work of an individual or organization in advancing Maine Development Foundation priorities as they work to strengthen the Maine economy, increase workforce productivity and contribute to the vision of a high quality of life for all Maine people.
AAI’s executive director, Kristen Wells, said she was honored to bring this award to The County, and hopes it increases awareness of the need for economic development throughout the region.
“We know that our goals to increase degree attainment and reduce outmigration of our youth will make an economic impact in Aroostook County,” says Wells. “It’s great to have our efforts and our commitment to economic prosperity of our region recognized by Maine Development Foundation with this award.”
AAI’s Founders, Ray and Sandra Gauvin, are gratified that the organization has been recognized for its efforts.
“We are honored to receive the Champion of Economic Development Award. We see Aroostook Aspirations Initiative as a catalyst in rebuilding Aroostook County’s economy through educating our young people, helping them to stay here, and giving them the tools they need to build a successful career right here,” said Sandra Gauvin.
“Right now, businesses in Northern Maine are begging for a trained workforce. Without that workforce, we will have no economy in the future,” she said. “We need to make sure that we have educated young people to step into these positions, raise their families here, and perpetuate the benefits that a strong economy can bring. That’s what we’re all about.”
To be considered for the award, candidates were required to demonstrate: commitment to economic growth in Maine at the state, regional or local level; ability to collaborate and create partnerships in order to accomplish objectives; high professional standards that model behavior for others; and innovativeness of an idea/approach to economic development.
The Maine Development Foundation is a private, nonpartisan membership organization that drives sustainable, long-term economic growth for the state of Maine.
“We’ve always believed that education attainment is the number-one driver of economic success,” said Yellow Breen, CEO of Maine Development Foundation.
AAI representatives will be present to receive the award at the Maine Development Foundation Annual Meeting on Sept. 28 in Bangor.
To learn more about AAI, visit gauvinfund.org, like them on Facebook, follow them on Twitter AAI/GauvinFund or e-mail them at info@gauvinfund.org.
