BELFAST – At an informal reception community leaders, volunteers, STRIVE trainers, and trainees celebrated the first phase of Trainee commitment to the STRIVE attitudinal work preparation program at the Maine Coastal Regional Reentry Center.

Strive Northern New England, in collaboration with Volunteers of America Northern New England, is now training 15 Reentry Center residents using the STRIVE model that has, according to a news released, proved effective for more than 31 years and helped more than 65,000 individuals successfully obtain and keep life-sustaining employment.

 "This program is opening doors for me, inside my mind and outside in the world,” one trainee said, in the release.

Tom Rodman, cofounder of Strive International, hosted the reception. He said: "This is a life-changing program disguised as a work preparation program. I am excited that we are now growing Strive here in Maine."

Waldo County Sheriff Jeff Trafton talked about his own personal struggles as a young man coming to believe that he could be successful.

"The Strive program builds confidence and teaches our residents that they are not locked out of the system, that they can find a place in society, and have meaningful, productive lives," he said.

"We are pleased to have Strive NNE joining with Volunteers of America to contribute to the success of our residents,” said Jerome Weiner, program manager of the Reentry Center.

Strive NNE executive director Dan Domench said: "Our trainees learn that when you understand and accept what is expected by an employer you can get the right job at the right time, perform effectively, and thrive in the workplace. The Strive model combines confident self-worth with a willingness to do what it takes to succeed. All of us in Maine benefit when Strive graduates support themselves, their families, give back to their communities, and mentor others."

For more information or to become involved, visit strivenne.org.