[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 177 (Wednesday, November 6, 2019)]
[Senate]
[Page S6445]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF NEW VENTURES MAINE

 Mr. KING. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize the 40th 
anniversary of New Ventures Maine, NVM. NVM is a nonprofit that 
provides adults with the tools they need to succeed in a changing 
economy. Through free classes and individualized coaching, NVM has 
helped thousands of Maine people find jobs, start their own businesses, 
and manage their finances.
  In 1978, Merle Nelson, a representative from Portland, ME, and 
Barbara Trafton, a senator from Lewiston, ME, spearheaded a bill that 
established what was then called the ``Displaced Homemakers Project.'' 
The program was designed to support Maine women transitioning into the 
workforce after focusing on raising their families. Since its 
inception, Gilda Nardone has served as executive director and she, 
along with her skillful team, have steadfastly executed the vision of 
its founders while seamlessly addressing the changing needs of the 
community around them for the last four decades.
  Fueled by the successes and tenacity of the people they serve, the 
organization has expanded its mission, adding courses on business 
management, financial literacy, and leadership. Other initiatives have 
been introduced as well, including innovative mini-grant programs, loan 
funding, and matched savings accounts. In 2015, the project officially 
became New Ventures Maine and rededicated itself to serving all Maine 
adults, men and women alike.
  Throughout its history, NVM has committed to providing access to the 
organization's services, regardless of wealth or status, and has always 
prioritized serving the historically disadvantaged and those with 
limited resources. There are NVM offices and opportunities in all 16 
counties in Maine, and they continued to expand access to their 
resources with the adoption of online courses.
  I am not the first to stand up and applaud NVM's contributions to the 
State. In 1993, Ms. Nardone was inducted into the Maine Women's Hall of 
Fame for her work with the organization. In 2004, Representative Nelson 
was given the first annual Women Making a Difference Award, named in 
her honor, for her pioneering role in creating New Ventures Maine. 
These are some of the public accolades but there are countless Maine 
people who quietly praise the work of NVM because of the difference 
this remarkable organization has made in their lives. A tribute to 
their advocacy that has lifted so many out of uncertainty and into the 
light of strength and courage.
  I am proud to recognize the great work of New Ventures Maine over the 
last 40 years. Their team of professionals, and the paths they have 
cleared, truly exemplify Maine's motto of ``Dirigo,'' I Lead.

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