May 2, 2025
South Paris, MAINE — Pink Feather Foundation, a nonprofit organization serving teachers and students in MSAD 17 and RSU 16, kicked off its “Forever Home” building project last night at a small gathering at 8 Industry Drive in South Paris.
“Our goal with this new building is to plant firm roots in the community and provide a permanent space where Pink Feather can continue serving our communities and expand our reach, without interruption,” said Pink Feather board member, Chris Delamater.
"We’ve always operated from donated or rented spaces. In the last 7 years, we’ve moved 6 times, due to various reasons—either our space was sold or the owners who had generously allowed us to use their space at little or no cost, had other needs,” said Pink Feather Co-Founder, Jen Kyllonen. “Each move requires us to put our services on hold as we settle into a new space. In our most recent move last fall, we secured a temporary space that allows for storage and packaging, but limits the full operation of our program.”
The new headquarters will be built on a piece of land graciously donated by Pink Feather board member, Paula Thayer, and her husband, Floyd, owners of Big Rig Shop in Oxford. Eric Hallee, owner of Eco-Pro Construction in Harrison, has donated his project management services to the effort. Additionally, every member of the foundation’s board has committed to making a financial contribution to the building fund.
At the kickoff event, Norway Savings Bank presented Pink Feather with a donation in the amount of $10,000. “We are so grateful to have the support of Norway Savings Bank,” said Kyllonen. “We can’t wait to see the dream of our Forever Home come to life.”
Public fundraising efforts for the building fund will launch soon. “Even with these generous gifts, we still need help to realize this vision. We welcome all donations, including in-kind materials or services,” said Kyllonen. More details will be made available on the foundation’s website.
Additionally, the organization will host its 3rd annual Murder Mystery Dinner Fundraiser on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Whitney Farm Estate, in Oxford, Maine. Dinner guests will enjoy a 3-course served buffet meal while being immersed in a murder mystery set in the era of the 1980s (presented by Maine's most popular murder mystery company, Mystery 207). This event is often compared to a live-action version of the game Clue! Tickets are available on the foundation’s website: pinkfeatherfoundation.org
Pink Feather Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization working to improve the lives of students by partnering with teachers to confidentially provide clothing and accessories at no cost. They envision all students having the clothing and accessories they need to be confident, engaged, and prepared to achieve their full potential. To learn more, please visit: pinkfeatherfoundation.org
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