WATERVILLE — The Board of Directors of Maine Children’s Home has named Candace Marriner the new executive director of MCH after a three-month national search.
Marriner’s 25 years of leadership experience across the helping professions, 10 years of experience in foster care and adoption work, and deep passion for social work will aid in advancing the mission of the nearly 125-year-old organization. MCH is known for its five core programs in adoption, counseling, young-parent support, caregiver resources, and winter assistance for families.
“I am excited to be joining Maine Children’s Home,” says Marriner. “I am looking forward to working with the amazing staff, board of directors, partners, and community members who share the passion of helping others through the invaluable work of this organization.”
When Marriner assumed the role on Aug. 14, she began to work closely with MCH program directors to carry out the strategic objectives that support the mission and vision for the nonprofit organization. Marriner will also be the primary public facing representative of MCH, who is responsible for building relationships, partnerships, and collaborations that support the community needs and meet the goals of the organization.
Marriner is transitioning from her role as clinical director for Sheepscot Regional Education Program, where she supported students’ community-based learning and provided clinical oversight and support to staff. Marriner is a native of Maine who earned her master’s of social work from UMaine in 2008, her master’s of business administration from Husson University in 2021, and is a licensed clinical social worker.
MCH will publicly welcome Marriner at its Community and Family Block Party, a free community event held on the MCH campus on Thursday, Aug. 17 from 5 to 8 p.m. The block party will be an opportunity for community members to meet Marriner, as well as enjoy family friendly activities. More information about the Community and Family Block Party can be found on the MCH website: mainechildrenshome.org/events/community-block-party-at-mch.
Marriner succeeds Executive Director Rick Dorian, who served MCH for seven years and guided the organization through significant growth and changes during the pandemic.
