Providing help and creating hope in Maine
Auburn, ME – Catholic Charities Maine is proud to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its SEARCH program—Seek Elderly Alone, Renew Courage & Hope—marking five decades of dedicated service in Androscoggin County.
Established in 1975, SEARCH was created in response to a Department of Health and Welfare request to support seniors in Lewiston/Auburn, following discussions at the 1971 Institute on Gerontology in Augusta. Since its founding, the program has expanded to nine counties, helping thousands of elderly residents remain independent while fostering meaningful community connections.
SEARCH’s mission is to empower vulnerable seniors by combating isolation, creating long-term support systems, and promoting independence. As a volunteer-based program, SEARCH provides free, non-sectarian services—including home visits, telephone reassurance, handy-person assistance, and referrals—through dedicated community volunteers. The program remains committed to ensuring that no senior faces isolation alone. Seniors can be referred by agencies, family, friends, or even themselves.
To honor the program’s profound impact, Catholic Charities Maine hosted a special celebration on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at St. Philip Church in Auburn. The event brought together volunteers, past and present leaders, and supporters to reflect on SEARCH’s legacy and continued importance.
Long-time volunteer and SEARCH Advisory Committee Chair Larry Lachance, who has been involved with the program for 47 years, recalls his unexpected journey with SEARCH: "I became a SEARCH volunteer by accident. I had filled out a survey at my parish indicating I’d be willing to visit an elderly person. Little did I know my name had been given to a new organization named SEARCH. That was in 1978, and it has been an incredible experience for me and my family ever since."
Former Director Phoebe Lowell highlights the program’s growth over the years: "By the year 2000, referrals were coming in because people in Androscoggin County knew about SEARCH. Current Director Wendy Russell has done an outstanding job expanding the program, and we knew she would be an excellent leader."
Current Director Wendy Russell expressed gratitude for the individuals and organizations that have sustained SEARCH’s mission: “We truly want to thank our dedicated donors for their generosity and wonderful support of our missions and goals of serving the elder population and promoting community volunteerism. Their funding support has helped to make these past 50 years of service possible and has helped our program grow into serving nine counties in Maine. We are especially grateful to the United Way of Androscoggin County, whose vital funding support has played an important role in sustaining our program and expanding our reach to more seniors in need.”
As SEARCH celebrates this milestone, Catholic Charities Maine recognizes the volunteers, leaders, and community members who have made the program a lifeline for seniors. The past five decades have proven that compassion and connection can transform lives, and SEARCH remains committed to continuing this vital work for another 50 years—and beyond.
If you would like more information about volunteering or are an older adult in need of a companion, email [email protected] or call (207) 784-0157.
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© 2025 Catholic Charities Maine
