Thank you for your interest in being a part of the 2026 cohort. The Natural Helpers Fellowship helps bridge resource gaps to city services within Maine's diverse communities, further strengthening the skills of local leaders who often serve as first points of contact for friends, family, and neighbors seeking support.

Over the course of the four-month program, Fellows develop essential skills in cross-cultural communication, advocacy, and navigating community resources, empowering them to better serve as leaders in their communities.

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Name

Please add your name

First Name

Last Name

Date of Birth

Contact Number

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Complete Address

Language Spoken

Current Position/Job Title

How did you hear about the Natural Helpers Fellowship?

What communities are you a part of in Maine?

A community is a social group with shared characteristics, such as location, culture, religion, values, or identity. Please list as many as you'd like.

The Natural Helpers Fellowship meets every other Saturday, starting February 1st until May 24th from approximately 9am to 4pm. Will you be able to commit to attending these in-person sessions at City Hall in Portland, Maine?

Yes, I can commit to attending all scheduled sessions

No, I have scheduling conflicts that would prevent full attendance

Please write a short biography about the roles you lead in your community

Maximum 200 words. Tell us about your current community involvement, leadership positions, and the impact you've made.

Describe your past or current leadership skills in advancing change in your community ?

Natural Helpers is a civic leadership program designed to connect community leaders with resources and mentors in the community, while also actively working to reduce barriers to success in Maine. Provide specific examples of leadership roles, initiatives you've led, or changes you've helped implement in your community.

What would you like to gain from this program and how will it assist you in achieving your goals?

Describe your expectations for the fellowship and what changes you hope to see in yourself or your community as a result of your participation.

Please describe at least three challenges you've identified in your community

Identify specific issues or barriers that affect your community members and their access to resources or services.

Reference #1 Name:

Please provide two references who can speak to your character, leadership abilities, and community involvement. References may be personal or professional contacts.

First Name

Last Name

Phone Number

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Primary Language

Reference #2 Name:

First Name

Last Name

Phone Number

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Primary Language

Next Steps in the Application Process

Upon submission of this application, the next step is an interview with the Office of Economic Opportunity to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the fellowship program. Please note: Due to program capacity restrictions, we are unable to offer a fellowship position to every applicant. We will contact you shortly after receiving your application to schedule an interview if you are selected to proceed.

I understand and acknowledge the next steps in the application process as described above.