Alfond Youth & Community Center Announces 2026 Inspirational Hall of Fame Recipients
- June 1, 2026
- Latest News · News
The Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC) is proud to announce the recipients for the 2026 Inspirational Hall of Fame, individuals whose leadership, generosity, volunteerism, and commitment to community continue to make a lasting impact throughout Central Maine.
Each year, the AYCC Inspirational Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding individuals, organizations, and community champions who embody the mission of the AYCC through service, philanthropy, mentorship, and advocacy. These honorees inspire others through their dedication to youth development, inclusion, healthy communities, education, and creating opportunities for all.
The 2026 Inspirational Hall of Fame recipients are Paul Dunbar, Kim Lindlof, and Richard “Dick” Upham; three remarkable individuals whose passion and commitment have strengthened the AYCC and the greater Mid-Maine Community in meaningful and lasting ways.
Paul Dunbar
Paul Dunbar exemplifies the true spirit of the Alfond Youth & Community Center’s Unified Champions Club↗ through his unwavering dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to inclusion. He consistently attends Unified Champions Club events and actively engages in all program activities. Whether serving as a coach, partnering directly with athletes, or building meaningful relationships with athletes and their families, Paul’s generosity of self makes a lasting and positive impact on everyone he encounters.
Paul’s comforting energy and infectious enthusiasm elevate every experience, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all participants. As a key contributor to the ongoing growth of the Unified Champions program, he regularly brings forward innovative ideas and demonstrates exceptional dedication by going above and beyond, offering transportation to ensure participation, encouraging athletes to step outside their comfort zones, and helping to create memorable, confidence-building experiences.
Paul is a Free Mason with the Siloam and Waterville Lodges. He served as an honorary co-captain for the Special Olympics Maine event in late 2023 and earned December 2024 AYCC Volunteer of the Month honors. Paul’s actions reflect outstanding leadership, selflessness, and a deep commitment to empowering others, making him a highly deserving inductee into the Class of 2026 Inspirational Hall of Fame.
Kim Lindlof
Kim Lindlof has been a driving force behind the economic and community vitality of Central Maine for more than two decades. As President & CEO of the Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce↗, she has championed the success of hundreds of businesses and nonprofits, fostering collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth across the region.
A graduate of Thomas College, Kim also serves as the Executive Director of the Central Maine Growth Council, where she leads strategic initiatives that strengthen the local economy and enhance the quality of life for residents throughout Mid-Maine.
Kim’s impact extends well beyond economic development. Through leadership and advocacy, Kim brings people together to a lasting effect. A dedicated community partner, she has been a steadfast supporter of the Alfond Youth & Community Center.
Kim has elevated key AYCC iniatives including the Festival of Trees, Business After Hours, dedications, ribbon cuttings, and other collaborative efforts that benefit local families, showing her energy, vision, and unwavering commitment to community.
Her leadership has helped shape a stronger, more connected Mid-Maine, making her a truly deserving honoree for Hall of Fame recognition.
Richard Upham
Dick Upham embodies the very spirit of inspiration through his steady kindness, patience, and genuine committment to others. In everything he does, he leads with heart, quietly encouraging, thoughtfully guiding, and consistently uplifting those around him.
A passionate advocate for environmental education, Dick was the visionary behind the After School Program’s salmon project. He created a hands-on, STEM-based learning experience that continues to impact countless students. Young people are raising salmon from eggs to fry in classroom aquariums, gaining a deep personal connection to local ecosystems. Along the way, they learn about the salmon life cycle, monitor water quality, and develop an understanding of habitat stewardship, culminating in the release of the fish into local streams each spring.
More than just an educator, Dick is a mentor and role model. His enthusiasm for the program is infectious, and his dedication ensures that every student learns and is inspired by the work. He has an extraordinary gift to help others see the beauty, purpose, and responsibility within this mission.
Dick Upham truly reflects what it means to be part of the Inspirational Hall of Fame, living the mission each day with passion, integrity, and unwavering dedication. His legacy is not only in the program he helped build, but in the countless lives he has influenced along the way.
Celebrating Community Impact
The AYCC Inspirational Hall of Fame celebrates individuals who inspire others through service, leadership, generosity, and dedication to community. This year’s recipients each represent the heart of the mission, creating opportunities, building connections, and strengthening lives across Central Maine.
The Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC) is honored to recognize Paul Dunbar, Kim Lindlof, and Richard Upham for their extraordinary contributions and lasting impact on our community.
To learn more about the AYCC mission, programs, and community iniatives, visit our IHOF webpage↗ for more information.