The Girls' Campus

Our mission of providing a stable home and enriching environment for at-risk Maine youth is unchanged after nearly a century. Opportunity Farm is the first of its kind to offer a facility for the growing number of girls' unable to live at home. The Farm is the only place in Maine that covers the broad age range needed and lets the girls live apart from, yet stay connected to the families. The new girls' campus is located on Bennett Road in New Gloucester.

About a ½ mile from the boys' campus, sits two homes for the girls. As they are for the boys, early intervention, long-term commitment, full financial assistance and connection to the family of origin, are the hallmarks of the girl's initiative.

At the same time, Opportunity Farm has not simply duplicated the boys' program. The campus and program for girls recognizes and respects the inherent differences between boys and girls-and address the gender-specific challenges and needs of girls.

Now, every boy-and girl-who comes to Opportunity Farm can count on the same thing: caring and careful adult supervision, a well-structured daily routine that includes a good mix of chores and fun, physical activity and rest, professional tutoring and regular studying; individual counseling to help them confront emotional challenges; and, most of all, the chance to realize their dreams. The program offers a second chance to experience childhood, to grow, and to prepare for success.

In December of 2002, Opportunity Farm opened its first girls' home, named in honor of Barbara "Bobbe" Welch. Bobbe and her husband Vincent were long time trustees and supporters of the Farm. The second girls' home is opened in August of 2005, and named after Senator Olympia J. Snowe.

"Choosing to honor Senator Snowe in the naming of this home was an easy decision for the Board," adds Michael Healy, Former Chairman of the Board and personal friend of the Senator. "She has had a life of considerable challenges, as have many of the girls for whom the Farm provides services. Her life story, her overcoming tremendous adversities and her incredible accomplishments as a highly respected Maine and national leader will serve as an inspiration to everyone at Opportunity Farm," says Healy.