Building Youth Hope: Assessing Community Assets and Opportunities for Supporting Youth Well-Being in the Sagadahoc County Area

Authors

• Emma Schwartz, University of Southern Maine, Catherine Cutler InstituteFollow
• Jillian Foley, University of Southern Maine, Catherine Cutler InstituteFollow
• Timothy Atkinson, University of Southern Maine, Catherine Cutler InstituteFollow

Document Type

Report

Publication Date

Summer 6-2025

Keywords

Youth, Well-being, Asset Mapping, Sagadahoc County, Maine, Community Research

Abstract

This report aims to build upon previous research and provides updated information on community assets to support youth in the Sagadahoc County area. The report examines the strengths, challenges, and opportunities for community investment with the goal of improving outcomes related to youth hopefulness, belonging, and well-being. The project team engaged community members in a variety of asset mapping and data collection activities which are summarized in this report. The report authors also make recommendations related to expanding youth connections to informal supports and third places, ensuring access to a variety of assets that are responsive to their holistic needs, and continuing to center youth voice in local decision-making.

Recommended Citation

Schwartz, Emma; Foley, Jillian; and Atkinson, Timothy, "Building Youth Hope: Assessing Community Assets and Opportunities for Supporting Youth Well-Being in the Sagadahoc County Area" (2025). Justice Policy. 52.
https://digitalcommons.usm.maine.edu/justice/52