Downeast Pledges $150,000 to the Blue Devils Campaign

Downeast Credit Union & Insurance is proud to stand alongside Calais Middle/High School and the Blue Devil community in support of the school’s Facilities Improvement Plan announcing a $150,000 commitment toward gymnasium renovations.

While the contribution will help fund a new gymnasium floor and updated scoreboard, Downeast Credit Union says the effort is about far more than facilities—it’s about investing in students, strengthening community pride, and bringing local organizations together to support the future of Calais.

In addition to the financial commitment, Downeast Credit Union Team Members will actively support community fundraising efforts and help encourage additional businesses and organizations to join the initiative.

“We see this as an opportunity to help bring people together around something that matters deeply to the Calais community,” said Joe Moses, President & CEO of Downeast Credit Union & Insurance. “Our Team believes strongly in the power of education, community, and opportunity. Through relationships built over the years—including through programs like Downeast Dunkers—we’ve seen firsthand the pride this community has in its students and school. We hope this investment encourages others to step forward and help make the broader vision possible.”

The project is part of the school’s larger 2026 Blue Devil Facilities Improvement Plan, a five-priority initiative designed to modernize key student, athletic, and community spaces throughout Calais Middle/High School.

Principal Dean Preston said the partnership reflects the kind of community support that creates lasting impact for students.

“This commitment from Downeast Credit Union sends a powerful message to our students and community that they are valued and supported,” Preston said. “Their willingness not only to contribute financially, but also to help rally additional community involvement, will make a tremendous difference as we work toward creating facilities that reflect the pride and potential of our students.”

Downeast Credit Union says the initiative aligns closely with the organization’s Core Values, including community, education, trust, and opportunity, while continuing the credit union’s broader commitment to giving back throughout its service area.

In 2025 alone, Downeast Credit Union:
• Supported 58 local organizations with nearly $38,000 in charitable giving
• Donated 2,546 pounds of food to local food pantries
• Contributed more than $10,700 in cash and in-kind donations to Ending Hunger in Maine initiatives

“As a member-owned financial cooperative, reinvesting in our communities is part of who we are,” Moses added. “We’re proud to support projects that create meaningful experiences and opportunities for the next generation.”

Community members or businesses interested in supporting the Calais Middle/High School improvement efforts are encouraged to contact Principal Dean A. Preston at 207.454.2591 or email dpreston@calaisschools.org for additional information.

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Photo caption
Representatives from Downeast Credit Union & Insurance joined Calais Middle/High School administrators, student-athletes, and Blue Devil Boosters members to celebrate a $150,000 contribution supporting Priority 1 of the school’s 2026 Blue Devils Future Campaign. Pictured with the donation are Joe Moses, President & CEO of DECU, and Tonia Lanier, Senior Vice President of Lending & Branch Operations (center), alongside members of the Calais school community. The investment will help fund gymnasium renovations, including a new athletic floor and updated scoreboard, while helping inspire additional community support for the school’s long-term vision.