Stronger Together: Community Events
Warmth & Advocacy: Supporting New Mainers in Our Community
ILAP was honored to once again partner with Chickadeeds for a family-friendly volunteer event in February with fellow non-profit partner In Her Presence. Over 60 volunteers created handmade cards for Mainers in immigration detention, made 25 blankets for immigrant families with newborn babies, and took action via a petition signing station. Thanks to all the Chickadeeds volunteers!
Compassion Starts Here: An Event to Inspire Action
As part of their 50th anniversary, Preble Street hosted an event focused on turning compassion into action. ILAP was proud to take part in the evening alongside Equality Community Center, Greater Portland Health, and Maine Needs. ILAP’s Policy Director Lisa Parisio spoke on a panel and led a break-out group conversation about changes in immigration policy and ways to take action to protect the lives and rights of immigrants.
Muskie Fund Award Ceremony
This June marked the 28th annual Muskie Access to Justice Award Ceremony, an event benefitting legal aid organizations in Maine. ILAP Board member and long-time Pro Bono Panel attorney Arnie Macdonald was awarded the 2025 Muskie Access to Justice Award, an annual award recognizing “outstanding individual efforts to promote access to justice in Maine.” Arnie was recognized for his work helping 40+ clients win asylum, among other accomplishments. Congratulations, Arnie!
Black History Month Community Wellness Fair
ILAP took part in the two-day Black History Month Community Wellness Fair, organized by Cross Cultural Community Services. This year’s theme was “Racism: A Public Health Issue” and Executive Director Sue Roche was a featured panelist.
International Women’s Day Fashion Show & Fundraiser Gala
Women United Around the World hosted an event in celebration of International Women’s Day. Executive Director Sue Roche was among the community leaders to be honored with a 2025 Community Award. Sue was recognized as a long-standing and reliable advocate for Maine’s immigrant communities.
