Rotary learns of Adopt-A-Block

    HOULTON — Tammy Goetsch and Lisa Surran visited the Houlton Rotary on Sept. 26 to promote Adopt-A-Block of Aroostook.  Adopt-A-Block originated in California and has spread across the country, focusing on creating personal connections by reaching out to support individuals in specific community blocks.
    Members of local churches, town government, businesses, the police department, and area residents collaborate to restore a community block by walking the streets, knocking on doors, and offering goods and volunteer services to those living in the area. The program also organizes special events that target needs in an entire community. 
Photo courtesy of Michael Clark
GUEST SPEAKERS — The Houlton Rotary Club welcomed Lisa Surran and Tammy Goetsch to its Sept. 26 meeting. The two discussed the Adopt-A-Block program. From left are Surran, event coordinator; Goetsch, program coordinator; and Scott Dionne, Houlton Rotary president.
    The Annual Thanksgiving Box Project is one particular event Houlton’s Adopt-A-Block program carries out to help eliminate hunger in our community. This year’s third Annual Thanksgiving Box Project will provide 200 local families with the full fixings to prepare a hot Thanksgiving meal. With funds from Houlton Rotary and additional support from local farmers, food banks, and supermarkets, Adopt-A-Block will reach out to our neighbors this fall to establish connections that are often lost in the urgency of daily life.