3Rivers, Inc. Marks Recent Merger, Celebrating New Chapter for Disability Services Across Maine
Westbrook, ME—Over 375 individuals from across Maine gathered on Wednesday, October 22, to celebrate the recent merger of three Maine nonprofits into one unified organization. Held at the Alfond Youth & Community Center in Waterville, the new agency, now operating as 3Rivers, Inc, hosted staff, supported individuals, and loved ones to mark this exciting chapter for the disability services community.
This celebration marks the first major event for 3Rivers since its merger and rebrand in July of 2025. Event attendees included individuals from each of the organization’s three legacy agencies, GMS, Uplift, and Independence Advocates of Maine, as well as stakeholders and partners from across the state of Maine.
“Our goal for 3Rivers’ Celebration Day was simple: to bring everyone, those we provide services to, our staff, and stakeholders, together in an energy-filled celebration of all that we’ve accomplished together so far,” said Catherine Thibedeau, Executive Director Emerita. “Bringing three agencies into one is no small feat, and we wanted a day that honored that hard work and the vibrant community we’ve built.”
With supported persons in mind, event activities were selected and adapted to account for all accessibility needs. During the celebration, these activities included swimming in the facility’s therapeutic pool, participating in arts & crafts, and dancing to a live band. In between the fun, all attendees were treated to a catered luncheon.
Following the activities and food, 3Rivers executive leadership presented a program to formally introduce key stakeholders and update community members on the status of the organization. Featured speakers included CEO Ann-Marie Mayberry, Executive Director Emerita Catherine Thibedeau (Northern Region), and Executive Director Emerita Heidi Mansir (Central Region).
About the event, Mansir said, “Watching the people we support spark new friendships, share laughter, and genuinely enjoy themselves was deeply rewarding. Moments like these truly capture the essence of 3Rivers: a place where everyone belongs and every connection matters.”
In addition to speeches from 3Rivers executive leadership, the program also gave time to recognize the support of the celebration’s top sponsors. Additional speakers included Jon Perkins, owner of Maine Technology Group, Josh Morse of Cross Insurance, and Dominic Miller, Head of Growth and Client Partnerships at Consulting for Human Services. Other sponsors of the event included Camden National Bank, iCareManager, Mutual of America Financial Group and Varney Insurance and Bonding. Because of these businesses’ generous sponsorship, the final event came at no cost to its attendees.
While this event marks a significant milestone for the new agency, event organizers and leadership say this is only the beginning for 3Rivers. With plans to expand its services and hopes to offer similar community gatherings soon, the organization aims to establish itself as a lasting force for connection and inclusion in Maine.
“This moment marks the beginning of many successful ventures, as we unite in our mission to enhance the quality of services throughout Maine,” said Ann-Marie Mayberry. “As we embrace the spirit of ‘Community Runs Deep,’ here’s to our shared journey ahead!”