Same program, new name – Welcome to Marian’s Place!
Watch the dedication video here
On Aug. 5, 2020,the New Beginnings, Inc. Emergency Youth Shelter was re-named and dedicated as MARIAN’S PLACE in honor of former Shelter Director Marian Carney’s legacy of serving Maine’s vulnerable youth in a safe, respectful, environment where families in crisis could find support to keep kids off the streets.
In 1996, Marian Carney began working as the Director of New Beginnings’ Emergency Shelter and continued to run it until she retired this April. During that time Marian created a safe place for youth to stay while they work on returning home to their families if it is safe to do so or finding other safe stable housing.
Twenty years ago, Marian noticed that many youth returned to the shelter repeatedly after just a short time away. Because of this she created the family mediation program to support families in crisis and to prevent youth from returning to the shelter due to unresolved family conflict.
New Beginnings’ Executive Director Chris Bicknell remarked, “Marian designed and maintained a loving, home-like experience at the shelter that makes youth feel cared for, respected and valued. Because of her long-standing commitment to the youth we serve and the values of New Beginnings the shelter will now be known as Marian’s Place.”
A socially-distanced, invitation-only outdoor dedication ceremony was held on August 5, 2020 outside the facility with a small group of former and current staff and Marian’s family in attendance.