Community Gathers at Provender for Heart of Ellsworth’s Fundraising Dinner

On Sunday, May 3, Heart of Ellsworth hosted its a fundraising dinner at Provender Kitchen + Bar in downtown Ellsworth, bringing together supporters, board members, staff, downtown partners, and community members for an evening of great food, conversation, and investment in the future of downtown.

This dinner was an important fundraiser for Heart of Ellsworth and supports the organization’s ongoing work to strengthen downtown Ellsworth as a place for business, creativity, connection, and community life. This year’s event also came during a meaningful milestone year as Heart of Ellsworth celebrates 10 whole years of community-driven work.

Guests began the evening with a cocktail hour, hors d’oeuvres, and time to connect before sitting down for dinner. The room was filled with familiar faces, new friends, and a shared appreciation for the momentum happening in downtown Ellsworth.

Throughout the evening, speakers reflected on the role downtown plays in the wider community and the importance of continued support for Heart of Ellsworth’s work.

Board Vice President Mike Sealander spoke about downtown as a hub for local business and visibility in Hancock County. He shared examples of businesses that have grown their presence by being part of downtown Ellsworth and reflected on the role Heart of Ellsworth plays in supporting the district as a whole.

Executive Director Cara Romano reflected on Heart of Ellsworth’s 10-year milestone and recognized the partners, volunteers, board members, staff, business owners, and community supporters who have helped move downtown forward. She also looked ahead to future efforts including Riverwalk North, the Union River Sculpture Trail, housing and vacant space planning, and expanded creative programming.

Provender owner and chef Daron Goldstein shared what it has meant for Provender to become part of downtown Ellsworth and spoke about the value of local businesses investing in community connection.

Heart of Ellsworth is grateful to everyone who attended, to Provender for hosting the evening with such care, and to every person who continues to support the organization’s mission.

The fundraising dinner was a reminder that downtown’s future is shaped by the people who believe in it, invest in it, and keep showing up for it.