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Celebrating Those Who Make a Difference

Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon & 2026 Paganucci Award Honorees

Last week, we had the honor of gathering for one of our most meaningful events of the year, our Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon. The event was filled with gratitude, connection, and celebration as we recognized the incredible individuals who give their time, energy, and heart to support the Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC).

Volunteers are the backbone of our community. Whether they’re mentoring, coaching, teaching, or simply showing up with consistency and care, their impact is felt every single day. The event allowed us to pause and say thank you; to reflect on the countless ways our volunteers help shape brighter futures for the young people we serve.

In 2025 alone, our volunteers contributed a staggering 5,629 hours to our various programs. The average volunteer hour is valued at $32.57, which represents over $183,337 in total contributions to the AYCC. The impact is felt across all our programming, including 60 youth mentors, 130 sports coaches, and 48 Unified Partners.

Event volunteers and special groups donated over 2,085 hours, which is roughly $68,000 in contributions.

Honoring The Spirit of Service: The Paganucci Awards

A highlight was the presentation of the Paganucci Awards, a deeply meaningful recognition established in 2021 through an endowment from the Paganucci Estate. This award honors volunteers who have made significant and lasting impact on the well-being of a child, or many children, through their dedicated time and mission.

The awards are uniquely divided to honor both Romeo and Martha Donnelly Paganucci, recognizing one adult male and one adult female each year who embodies selfless service and a deep committment to youth development at the Club.

2026 Award Nominees 

James Moss, Paul Berkner, Eli Weinberger, Mike Scholz, Mike Hamel, Mike McCue, Kari Ferrenbach, Abby Eastman, Melanie Cole, Maegan Bell, and Gusty Taylor.

2026 Award Recipients

Mike McCue – AMP Up (youth mentoring) and Greenhouse to Your House Meal Kit Volunteer

For the past three or so years, Mike has served as a dedicated volunteer mentor in our Mentor Program. Throughout that time, he has worked with multiple mentees, consistently demonstrating patience, empathy, and a deep understanding of youth development. Mike has an exceptional ability to meet young people exactly where they are—emotionally, socially, and developmentally. He approaches each relationship with intentionality and care, adapting his style to meet the individual needs of the child he is supporting.
Mike’s impact extends beyond mentorship. Every Thursday, he faithfully volunteers his time to help pack Greenhouse to Your House (GTYH) boxes, ensuring families in our community receive fresh food and essential items. Whether he is building meaningful relationships with youth or completing hands-on tasks to support families, Mike brings the same level of commitment and humility to everything he does.
What distinguishes Mike is not only his reliability, but the quiet strength of his dedication. He does not seek recognition. Instead, he shows up—week after week, year after year—because he believes in the mission of this organization and in the power one person has to make a difference. His actions reflect a deep commitment to service and a belief in the potential of every young person he encounters.
Mike embodies the spirit of the Paganucci Award. His consistency, compassion, and willingness to invest in both youth and community make him an invaluable part of this facility. We are stronger because of his service, and our young people are better because of his steady presence.
Melanie Cole – Mid-Maine Dolphins Swim Team Volunteer
Melanie Cole is a truly exceptional swim volunteer with the Mid Maine Dolphins. It’s not often we have parents willing to step up and take the swim officials course for USA swimming, but Mel also took the YMCA certification course as well making her dually certified as a swim official. This is a skill set greatly needed.
At every swim meet, Melanie doesn’t hesitate to help when needed and brings with her a strong set of swim parent and swim volunteer skills. This really helps new families ease into the demands of the team. Her dedication and compassion to the Dolphins swim team and the YMCA league in general has significantly contributed to our team’s growth and success. We couldn’t have done it without her help. She is a great role model and deserving of volunteer of the year.

A Community Built on Care

The stories of Mike and Mel are just two examples of the incredible impact our volunteers have every day. Their dedication reflects the very heart of our mission.

To all of our volunteers: Thank you! Your time, compassion, and committment do not go unnoticed. You are changing lives, building confidence, and strengthening our community in ways that matter deeply.

We are so greatful to celebrate you, not just at this event, but all year long.

A white banner hangs on a grey wall in a gymnasium. The banner was designed and decorated by youth and says in giant letters, "Thank You Volunteers."

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