News at Waban

 

 

Celebrating A 10-Year-Old Gift

Benefactor Bob Fortier addresses community members, friends, and family at the Waban Projects' 2 Day Street home in Kennebunk last month on the building's 10th anniversary.    (York County Coast Star - July 12, 2007)

 

KENNEBUNK – Ten years ago Bob and Jeanne Fortier did something very special that changed the lives of eight people who otherwise would not have had such an opportunity.  They realized that children with special needs grow up into adults who also require specialized services and accommodations.  In 1997, the Fortier’s gave Waban Projects, Inc. a house at 2 Day Street, Kennebunk.

 

They said, “Tell us what you and the state require and we will renovate it to those specifications.”  This became one of the first homes in Maine to provide independent living for adults with multiple developmental disabilities.

 

Waban Projects, Inc. is a non-profit corporation organized to develop and operate programs which promote the general welfare and education of children and adults with developmental disabilities. 

 

Waban used this gift to provide a home for eight adults with disabilities.  Four adults who are able to live semi-independently occupy two apartments upstairs.  Four adults requiring more assistance live in the downstairs apartment.  Each of the residents has his or her own bedroom and share dining and recreational space.  They all enjoy living in Kennebunk and participating in the community activities.  Staff is available to the residents at all times.

 

On June 18, the 10^th anniversary of the home, a plaque was placed at 2 Day Street honoring the generous donation of Bob and the late Jeanne Fortier.

 

For more stories click on the links below.

 

Kennebunk Savings Bank Supports Waban

 

Life Works Open House

 

Program Proves Key To Ryan Lajoie's Success