The Mid-coast Recovery Coalition (MCRC) Board of Directors has appointed Linda Impagliazzo as the organization’s new executive director. 

Substance Use Disorder including addiction to drugs and/or alcohol has become all too common in Midcoast Maine and across the country, taking its toll on individuals and families throughout communities, according to MCRC, in a news release. MCRC is a nonprofit organization that formed four years ago by Ira Mandel, MD, MPH in order to support individuals and families seeking help and healing to address the challenge of addiction.  Since inception, MCRC has established two recovery residences to offer stable housing and program support for individuals choosing recovery.

“We look to a future where our goal is to increase our recovery residences,” said MCRC.

Until now, MCRC has been led by an all-volunteer board. Ira Mandel expressed that “I have learned that opposite of addiction is connection, and to create community for those in needs requires full time commitment.” 

Board Member Jeanne Denny, who has extensive academic and community social work experience, said that “We are so pleased that Linda brings her deep experience and dedication to vulnerable people to MCRC as our full time executive director. Her strong background in the nonprofit community and leadership skills are assets to the organization and the mid-coast community. We’re looking forward to Linda’s leadership in the next chapter of our organization’s fight against addiction.”

Impagliazzo brings over 30 years of experience working within the nonprofit sector as the executive director of the Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center, a domestic violence organization in Rhode Island. She created a vision for the organization securing its future, while providing strategic leadership. Additionally, she developed diverse programming ensuring that survivors of domestic violence had a voice in the process.

Impagliazzo recently to Maine and remains committed to nonprofit work that aims to make communities stronger and more resilient.

“I am honored that the Board of Directors has given me the opportunity to lead such a wonderful organization,” said Impagliazzo. “MCRC has made a huge difference in helping to create a healthier and safer community since its inception.  I look forward to working with the talented staff and board as well as getting to know the donors, volunteers, and partners”