Empowering Others Through Mentorship: Guiding the Next Generation of Leaders
Each newsletter I’ve written has focused on a core Rotary value—and this month’s theme was an easy one, because we witnessed it in real time.
Twenty years from now, Eva Benjamin, Miss Maine’s Teen, will likely look back on her visits to our Rotary club as moments that helped shape her—moments where she honed her craft of public speaking, built confidence, and felt supported. And the amazing part? We had the opportunity to be part of that. That is mentorship.
A couple of weeks ago, Eva stood in front of a room full of professionals—Millennials, Gen Xers, and a Boomer or two—and shared her mission. It would have been easy to dismiss her. After all, we collectively hold decades of wisdom, life experience, and professional insight. But instead of brushing her off, we leaned in.
Not only did we give her the opportunity to speak and grow—we were the ones who walked away impacted. She wowed us with her passion to help others and her openness about the importance of mental health. She reminded us that mentorship isn’t just about sharing knowledge—it’s about making space. Listening. Encouraging. Learning from one another.
That moment captured what Rotary is all about: creating meaningful, cross-generational connections that empower people and strengthen communities.
Eva Benjamin
2nd Runner-Up in the 2025 Miss Maine Teen USA Pageant
Winner of the Most Photogenic Award
To us, she is Eva, the business student passionate
about mental health advocacy!
Connor J. Archer, Founder and CEO of The Courageous Steps Project
Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at age 3, Connor has transformed his personal journey into a mission of empowerment, launching initiatives like the Back-To-School Drive, One Word Challenge, and Green House Village Preschool—all aimed at supporting children and young adults with developmental challenges. Recognized by the Autism Society of Maine and inducted into the Husson University Alumni Hall of Fame, Connor inspired our members with his passion, authenticity, and commitment to making a difference in Maine communities.
Seth Poplaski from University Credit Union
Seth delivered an eye-opening presentation on the growing threat of AI-driven scams and how individuals can protect themselves in today’s digital world. From deepfake voicemails to AI-generated phishing emails, he shared real-life examples and practical tips to avoid fraud. His insights were both timely and essential, offering valuable guidance for anyone who deals with technology and financial safety.
Melissa Huston, Executive Director of Greater Bangor Habitat for Humanity
Melissa shared a powerful message about how Habitat for Humanity is addressing affordable housing in our local community—one project, one family, and one volunteer effort at a time. From empowering families through homeownership to the vital role of the ReStore in funding their mission, her presentation reminded us that Habitat is about more than building houses—it’s about building hope. As a nonprofit our Rotary club proudly supports, it was a meaningful reminder of the impact we make together.
Annual Evening Meeting at Kimberly’s at the Marina!
Thursday, June 26 | 5:00–8:00 PM | Hampden
Get ready for a magical evening of fellowship, reflection, and celebration as we gather for the Rotary Club of Bangor Breakfast Annual Meeting
Thanks to Larry Diehl for securing the beautiful venue at
Kimberly’s at the Marina and to Karen Schaller for working her event
magic behind the scenes, this is sure to be a night to remember.
Details to Know:
📅 Date: Thursday, June 26
🕔 Time: 5:00–8:00 PM
📍 Location: Kimberly’s at the Marina, Hampden
☀️ Note: There will be no morning meeting that day—evening festivities only!
We'll enjoy great food, meaningful reflections, and a chance to celebrate the impact we've made this year as a club. Spouses, partners, and guests are welcome to join in the fun!
Please RSVP to Andrew to let us know if you'll be attending
and if you'll be bringing a guest.
Let’s close out the Rotary year together—
with laughter, gratitude, and maybe even a little magic. ✨
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: Our club has been invited to join the Fusion Community Committee for a volunteering opportunity at the Maine Veteran's Home on
Saturday, June 7th at 10 AM. It will be an opportunity to host bingo and give out prizes.
The Fusion group is also collecting prizes to give away at the event. If you are unable to attend but would like to contribute, this is another opportunity.
If you would like to sign up or for more information contact Victoria Sorrentino at vsorrentino@northernlight.org or 207-973-5058.
🎶 Volunteer Opportunity: Park Cars, Raise Funds!
We’ve got a fun and easy fundraising opportunity coming up! 🚗💥
Our club will be parking cars at the Melissa Etheridge concert on Friday, August 30th, and we need a few helping hands to make it happen. It’s a great way to raise funds, represent Rotary in the community, and enjoy the energy of a summer concert night.
📅 Check your calendar, and if you’re available to help out, please see Andrew to get signed up.
Let’s make it a successful (and fun!) evening for our club!
