who we are
Our Story
Maine Children’s Alliance (MCA) is a policy and advocacy nonprofit focused on improving the well-being of children and families through data-driven solutions and community-informed change. For more than 30 years, the MCA has been a trusted voice in child advocacy in Maine — advancing policies that strengthen families, expand access to early care and education, and promote children’s health, safety, and economic security.
What began as a small alliance of advocates has grown into a statewide leader in child-focused policy change. Our work has helped shape some of Maine’s most impactful legislation, grounded in data, community input, and collaboration.
Our Mission
Maine Children’s Alliance advocates for sound public policies that improve the lives of all Maine children and families — with a focus on equity, data, and long-term systems change.
Our Vision
We envision a Maine where every child is safe, healthy, nurtured, and prepared to thrive — regardless of zip code, income, or background.
Our Funders
Our work is made possible with the support of the following individuals and foundation partners:
What We Believe
Trusted Data Powers Strong Policy
We rely on research and the KIDS COUNT® Data Book to inform our work and highlight what’s working in Maine — and what still needs to change.
Community Voices Drive Change
We center the lived experiences of parents, caregivers, and coalition members, with a commitment to race equity and family-led solutions.
Policy Focused on Three Essentials
We advance policy solutions that support child well-being, family economic security, and early care and education across Maine.
Guiding Our Mission
Our Board of Directors
We are governed by a committed board representing diverse expertise in health, education, policy, and child development.
Peter Lindsay, Chair
Retired Professional, United Way
Kane Loukas, Vice Chair
Retired Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Melissa Cilley, Treasurer
Education and Community-Building Consultant and Adjunct Professor, University of New England
Natallie Gentles-Gibbs, Secretary
Associate Professor, School of Social Work, University of Southern Maine
Pamela Day
Retired Child Welfare Professional
Flavia DeBritto
Maine State House Representative for District 64
Jamie Dorr
Executive Director & Founder, Midcoast Youth Center
Judith Feinstein
Dental Public Health Consultant
Deborah Patten
Retired Pediatrician
Julie Redding
Clinical Director, Community Caring Collaborative
Liam Shaw
Outpatient Pediatric Behavioral Health Manager, MaineGeneral
Nadine Twagirayezu
Senior Paralegal / Department of Justice Accredited Representative, Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project
Sarah Woog
Director of Resource Development, Four Directions Development Corporation
experts driving change
Our staff
Our staff includes professionals with backgrounds in public health, research, early education, and policy advocacy — all committed to improving outcomes for Maine’s children.
Want to make a difference for Maine kids & families?
Whether you're a parent, policymaker, or community leader, your voice matters. Together, we can shape policy that puts children and families first.