May 30, 2017

The Biddeford Saco Rotary Club, in collaboration with the Biddeford Regional Center of Technology (BRCOT) students, successfully renovated a long-abandoned house on Main Street in Biddeford as part of a community service project that provided practical learning experience for students and revitalized the neighborhood.

In Biddeford, Maine, a collaborative effort between the Biddeford Saco Rotary Club and students from the Biddeford Regional Center of Technology (BRCOT) has transformed an abandoned house on Main Street into a beacon of community service and educational opportunity. Spearheaded by Superintendent Jeremy Ray, a Rotary Club member, the project involved renovating the dilapidated, tax-delinquent property, which was deeded to the Rotary Club for the duration of the renovation. The initiative not only provided BRCOT students with valuable, real-world experience in construction but also revitalized the neighborhood and settled the property's back taxes. Rotary volunteers and local businesses contributed significantly, donating time, services, and materials. Major project sponsor Jim Godbout emphasized the hard work and adaptability of the students throughout the project, highlighting the community-wide benefits. The renovation, which involved contributions from various local businesses and individual donors, is nearing completion and will culminate in a celebration at BRCOT, recognizing everyone involved. The success of this project has led to the city deeding another property in arrears to the Rotary Club for a similar future endeavor, showcasing the impactful collaboration between educational institutions and community organizations.