Expanding College and Job-Skills Opportunities in Western Maine

Summary

This is the story of Franklin County, Maine, a rural community crippled by poverty and too few economic opportunities. It’s a story with two stars: 1) local leaders who rally together to bring college courses and job training to the area; and 2) residents who step out of their comfort zone to grow new skills and careers. Spoiler alert: The county’s transformation is ongoing. But the final chapter of this report? It’s a hopeful — and happy — ending. 

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Franklin County Community College Network: Reinventing the Region by Retraining the Workforce
• Easy Access to College Classes for BothFull-time Students and Working Parents
• Efforts Sparked by Annie E. Casey Foundation RuFES Institute
• Consortium Draws on Wide Range of Community Resources

Key Takeaway

Introducing western Maine, where the moose are plenty and the economic opportunities few

Maine’s Franklin County, located 90 miles north of Portland, is a hard-hit, resource-rich rural area that’s home to nearly 29,500 residents. It has one of the state’s highest unemployment rates and lowest median household income levels.