Stitham holds both a BS in Business Administration and a Masters in Education from the University of New Hampshire and brings a wealth of experience to her new position. She was employed by the Charlotte White Center for 25 years, growing with the organization as it increased services and culminating her career there as the Chief Financial Officer. Most recently, she served as the Interim Finance Director for Midcoast Maine Community Action.

When asked what drew Jane to PTH, she said “My mother's life set an example for me that I have always tried to follow, one of countless moments of quietly helping others as they faced difficult situations. Pine Tree Hospice affords me the opportunity to carry this work forward, striving to ease the challenges that families and communities face during a life-limiting illness or an unexpected loss. I am honored to be a part of Pine Tree Hospice's mission.” Stitham will join the current PTH staff including Amy Madigan-Dube, Coordinator of Volunteers and Client Services; Sherri Jackins, Administrative Assistant; and Frances Spear, Staff Support.

Scott resigned from PTH to start a home-based business, Fresh Air Dogs, which provides in-home lodging and doggie day care with lots of TLC. “This is something I have always wanted to do and now seems like the right time for me to do it,” Scott said. Cynthia and her husband, Russell, will continue offering Puppy Head Start and teaching Dog Obedience Classes as they have since 1978. When asked what she thought were her greatest accomplishments as PTH's Executive Director these past three years, Scott cited the collaborations with other local non-profits and the creation of Evergreen, a weekly peer support program for grieving children and their families. After two years of planning, the Evergreen program began on October 1, 2008 and celebrated its one year anniversary this past fall. Nineteen people have completed the 28-hour Bereavement Facilitator Training to date. “I will continue to serve PTH on the Bereavement Committee and as an Evergreen Volunteer Facilitator and Trainer,” she said.

Pine Tree Hospice serves the largely rural area of north central Maine, providing end of life services through the work of over ninety volunteers. Staff and volunteers may travel as much as 100 miles round trip to assist clients and their families. Referrals to PTH have increased each year. Individuals may be referred by anyone including their physician, and will be matched with an appropriate volunteer or team of volunteers depending upon the need. Incorporated in 1985, PTH is governed by a Board of Directors composed of community representatives.

Volunteers provide direct and indirect services to clients. All hospice volunteers must complete an initial 20 hour education program and continued education hours each year thereafter. Services provided by PTH are free of charge to clients and their families. Funding is provided by the annual Variety Show, United Way donor designations, memorial contributions, donations, grants, the annual appeal drive, and various other fundraising events. Contracts with two Medicare hospice providers complete the funding support.

Hospice volunteers provide companionship, respite care for caregivers, transportation to appointments, meal preparation, shopping, medication delivery and light housekeeping. Evergreen, a support group for grieving children and their families, meets on a weekly basis with trained facilitators.

A monthly Bereavement Drop-In Group for adults is also available. In addition, volunteers are available to provide grief support in the schools or for other groups upon request. To contact Pine Tree Hospice, call 564-4346, e-mail wecare@pinetreehospice.org or stop by the office located at 883 West Main Street in Dover-Foxcroft.