Message From Our Director
As the only youth-led organization working exclusively in rural Maine, we know what it takes to succeed. Working directly in communities builds on existing trust that is required for meaningful change.
Despite systemic underinvestment, political polarization, and the pervasiveness of rural 'civic deserts,' rural young people have proven to be a true force.
Our work confirms that, when young people are trusted with resources and leadership, they show up for their communities: advocating for local funding, turning out for critical town meetings, and creating rare spaces community connection.
Thank you for being here with us.
We are rooted in local rural communities. We hire organizers across the state to work directly where they live.
By The Numbers:
200+
Community Events
2,000+
Youth Engaged
50+
Rural Youth Organizers Trained
95%
Of youth report higher intent to take action
We ensure rural youth are heard on the issues that impact their communities.
Our organizers lead and design all core programming, creating spaces where young people’s lived experience is valued as their expertise. We pay all youth for their time, cover travel expenses, and provide robust paid leadership opportunities for our youth leaders.
Priority Issues
Our campaigns emerge directly from the needs of our rural communities. We see five major issues routinely surface in our work:
Housing Access
We advocate for livable and affordable housing so that all Mainers have a place to call home.
The Environment
Conservation, pollution, and other environment-related issues impact our livelihoods, the health of our future generations, and Maine's wildlife.
Transportation
Cheap, available, and clean transportation is possible and provides greater access for opportunity and our communities.
Wabanaki Rights
We believe that everyone should have the dignity of self-determination. We advocate for this and other rights for the Wabanaki Nations.
Food Access
Mainers should have access to healthy and affordable food, and Maine's local farmers should always recieve necessary support.
We connect youth with each other across distances, cultures, and political divides, and provide the resources necessary to become empowered leaders.
JMJU is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization (EIN: 93-2999628).