Our Work Transforms Lives
Our work goes beyond programs, it transforms lives. By improving the wellbeing of individuals, we enhance the wellbeing of the fabric of our community. Learn about the difference In Her Presence is making in the lives of immigrant women and families through viewing our overall cumulative impact, testimonials, participant perspectives, and annual reports.
Cumulative Impact
300+
COURSES, EVENTS, & PROGRAMS
1400+
PARTICIPANTS ENROLLED IN ONE OR MORE OF OUR PROGRAMS
4500+
SECONDARY BENEFICIARIES*
*secondary benefit is calculated from average household size and based on access to technology in the home, placement in jobs, and attendance at community events.
"My son is young. If I don’t learn English, I can’t help him to study. In Her Presence gave me the power to keep going in my life. Now I feel more strong. When I started, I was shy. Some words I still don’t know what they mean. I keep trying. Claudette told me, ‘You can do it. Just keep going.’ She trusts me and I trust her. Now, I’m a talker. I can do it. I like improving myself and doing something good. In Her Presence helped me a lot. Now, I’m helping my children."
Esraa, IHP Participant
"Through grit, vision, and a deep gift for collaboration, In Her Presence persists and greatly improves the quality of life for those along the entire life continuum - from the prenatal phase to the geriatric phase of life. Participants are supported, validated, and empowered to live independent, fruitful lives which benefit themselves, their families and our community....There is no stopping this tsunami of vision, positivity, kindness and empowerment for all."
Martha, IHP Teacher
"I came to the U.S. with my daughter. I had no friends, no family, and no one to support me. I remember walking alone in the snow, struggling even to find a ride. Thinking about that time still brings strong emotions. ... Claudette made sure I wasn’t alone. She formed a support group of six people who could help me, offering transportation, guidance, and friendship. They taught me how to take the bus, how to ask for help, and how to navigate life in a new country.
In Her Presence became my teacher, my support, and my strength. They helped me learn English, take care of myself, and build my confidence. They taught me how to do laundry, buy groceries, schedule doctor’s appointments, everything I needed to survive and thrive. Even after I moved from Portland, they still check on me. They didn’t just give me fish; they taught me how to fish. Now, I can help others the way they helped me."
Thérèse, IHP Participant
Participant Perspectives
When we ask our participants about their experience with our programs
87%
believe our class greatly improved their English
88%
report that Maine "feels more like home now."
75%
feel more ready to enter the U.S. workforce
Our work would not be possible without the countless donations we have had from individuals, corporations, foundations, and community organizations.
Thank You to Generous Contributors
Foundations & Community Organizations
Harold Alfond Foundation
John T. Gorman Foundation
Elmina B. Sewall Foundation
United Way of Southern Maine
Southern Maine Agency on Aging
Sam L. Cohen Foundation
Good Shepherd Food Bank
Maine Community Foundation
Maine Initiatives
MeHAF
Maine Council on Aging
The Evergreen Foundation
Wayside Food Programs
Amalgamated Charitable Foundation
Albert B Glickman Family Foundation
Maine Immigrant Rights Coalition
Maine Justice Foundation
Women United
REDCO Foundation
Portland Chamber of Commerce
Opportunity Alliance
Maine Marathon
Maine Department of Health and Human Services
Maine Housing Authority
Grapevine Giving
St Alban's Episcopal Church
St Ansgar Lutheran Church
St Bartholomew's Episcopal Church
The Episcopal Church of St. Mary
Maine Farm & Sea Cooperative
