Building Livability in New Gloucester
BLING Vision
BLING works to make New Gloucester “an age-friendly livable community that is a healthy, active and safe place to live, work, play and age” as established in the New Gloucester 2021 Comprehensive Plan. We expand opportunities, remove barriers and deliver programs so people of all ages can live safely and comfortably, socialize with neighbors, enjoy recreational activities, get around easily and safely, engage in civic life, and enjoy a lifelong home in our community.
BLING Mission
We recognize, promote, support and build on our community’s existing resources to address residents’ needs. We identify needs not being met by available resources, and we advocate for, find and implement no-cost or low-cost solutions. We partner with community groups; businesses; municipal, state and federal government entities; and nonprofits to make our community age-friendly.
BLING is a member of the Lifelong Maine Network.
New Gloucester is a member of the AARP Age-Friendly network.
Tribute to Patricia Vampatella
It is with a heavy heart that we share news of the passing of Patricia Vampatella – our beloved friend and a treasured founding member of our age-friendly group in New Gloucester - BLING.
Pat was an early adopter, a tireless advocate and a fierce supporter of efforts to enhance New Gloucester as a life-long place to live, work, play and age.
“Amazing knows no age” – this is how Pat was described when honored in 2022 for her long service on the SeniorsPlus Board of Directors. Pat exemplified the wisdom, value and worth of older adults while serving as a driving force for their rights, needs and services.
As a founding member of BLING, Pat was our constant cheerleader, vocal proponent and fount of experience and common sense. When BLING first organized as a grassroots group, Pat served as a rudder – helping to steer and guide our efforts. When we had doubts or we faltered, Pat had our backs. When we became a non-profit last year, she continued to “wave our flag.”
Pat gave unstintingly to New Gloucester. She was a cofounder of the New Gloucester Fire Rescue, which recognized her in 2025 for her 50 years of service. Her friends in various book clubs and at the library can attest to her love of reading, sharp intellect and depth of knowledge. She was always learning and growing – and bringing others along with her.
Pat continued her community service by joining the town’s Economic and Community Development Committee several years ago. She brought to the committee a lifetime of experience and contacts, fresh ideas and directions, and an unflagging discipline in accomplishing the work at hand. She never stopped advocating for pragmatic community development that comprised respect and support for all.
Pat kept us laughing with her dry wit and colorful stories from a full life where not a moment was wasted. And she never, ever quit when she put her mind to something.
We will miss you, Pat, and love you dearly!
We are deeply grateful to the Vampatella family for their support of BLING and for sharing Pat with us for all these years!