This spring, WindowDressers was one of five recipients to receive the Volunteer Generation Fund grant from The Maine Commission for Community Service (MCCS) and the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). The grant seeks to support volunteerism in Maine in key areas, including helping seniors age in place. We are honored for the recognition of our incredible network of volunteers, and will use the funds to expand our Community Workshops into new, underserved communities. Already, we are supporting new Community Workshops this season in Parsonsfield, Norway, South Portland, Machias and Washburn.

Our low-cost insulating window inserts make life more comfortable for all of our customers, but they have a special role to play in helping Maine’s seniors age in place. Aging in place has important financial, physical and emotional health benefits for seniors. However, seniors are particularly susceptible to the discomforts and negative health effects of cold and drafts. Living on a fixed income can make it difficult to keep up with the rising cost of heating fuel and preclude the high up-front expense of replacing inefficient windows. Since 30% of an average home’s heat loss occurs through windows and doors, providing insulating window inserts at an affordable price – or at no cost for low-income households – can be a key factor in ensuring that Maine’s senior residents are able to age in place by reducing fuel bills and improving the warmth and comfort of their homes. Our Community Workshop model keeps our prices low while also providing meaningful volunteer opportunities that help seniors remain connected to their community. Maybe you or someone you know could benefit from our insulating window inserts? If so, you can contact our customer service line at 207-596-3073. You can also place an order for inserts at our website.

In addition to helping us support seniors in Maine, this grant is an acknowledgement of the volunteer spirit that powers our statewide program. Since our inception, WindowDressers has produced over 27,000 insulating window inserts utilizing over 100,000 hours of volunteer time. Our Community Workshops are entirely volunteer-run. Everyday people give their time to WindowDressers because of the direct impact on their community. Longtime volunteer Cliff Babkirk of Sanford explains why he gives his time: “When I retired and went looking for a volunteer opportunity that would match my interest in community service, energy efficiency, helping others to lower heating costs and reduce their carbon footprint, and saving the planet in some small way, I found WindowDressers. After two years with the organization, I feel so fortunate to be part of the Windowdressers experience.”

If you love the community spirit of WindowDressers and want to get involved, sign up to volunteer at one of our 33 Community Workshops being held throughout the state this season. Want to start a new Community Workshop in your neighborhood? Please contact us!