Our Story
In Ocean Park, Maine, The Pines Senior Communities exist to make safe, affordable housing possible, while nurturing the kind of neighborly support that helps people feel at home. From the beginning, our focus has been community, dignity, and independence, with help nearby when it’s needed.
Taking Root
It Began With Listening
During the summer of 1969, six youth from the New England Baptist Council youth camp in Ocean Park set out to learn what seniors in their community were facing. What they found was urgent: many older adults living on fixed incomes were paying as much as 65 to 70 percent of their total income on housing.
That discovery became the spark for a long-term goal, not just about building physical housing, but creating a community where seniors can “age in place” with support and care. In 1972, sixty apartments were officially opened.
Our Mission
Then and Now
The mission of The Pines Senior Communities has always been clear:
- To provide safe, affordable housing and encourage maximum independence in a caring environment.
Our vision looks forward, too. We are committed to:
- Addressing changing housing needs by maintaining attractive, environmentally responsible homes,
- Expanding resources and services,
- Exploring funding opportunities for growth,
- and deepening relationships with the greater community.
Looking Ahead
The Future of The Pines Community
Over 50 years later, our story continues, shaped by the same values that started it all: dignity, independence, and a community that supports people through every season of life. Whether you are exploring housing for yourself or someone you love, we invite you to learn more about makes The Pines Senior Communities special.
Ocean Park
Our Home
Tucked into Ocean Park, a Chautauqua association within Old Orchard Beach, The Pines Senior Communities are situated in a quiet natural setting along the Gulf of Maine, part of what’s often called Maine’s “Golden Riviera.” Coastal ocean activity helps keep summers comfortable and winters more moderate than you might expect, with average summer temperatures in the 70s and winter days averaging around 32 degrees. Right next door, residents can access the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge via the Ted Wells Memorial Trail, offering an easy way to enjoy fresh air, nature, and peaceful walks close to home. And when the day calls for sand and salt air, not only are you a half mile from the Ocean Park beach, but others, like Old Orchard Beach and Ferry Beach, are within easy walking distance.
Our Dedicated Staff
Meet The Team
Behind The Pines Senior Communities is a dedicated team committed to helping residents feel at home, stay independent, and get support when it’s needed. From on site resident coordination services, facilities management, and day-to-day operations, we’re here to keep the community welcoming, safe, and well cared for.
2025 – 2026 Board of Directors
Kevin Porter
President
Chelmsford, MA
Debbie Sousa
Secretary
Ocean Park, ME
Win Winch
Treasurer
Ocean Park, ME
Dennis Carignan
Exeter, NH
Elisabeth Herold
Executive Director
Biddeford, ME
Larry Mead
Old Orchard Beach, ME
Debbie Sousa
Dorchester, MA
Martine Taylor
Whitman, MA
Debbie Walker
Biddeford, ME
Cathy Larkin
Ocean Park, ME
Susan Martin
Ocean Park ,ME
Property Management
Elisabeth Herold, MS, NAHP-e
Executive Director
207-934-2157 ext. #5
Sheryl Woodworth, MS
Administrative Coordinator
207-934-2157 ext. #2
Anjoli Matthews
Admissions Coordinator
207-934-2157 ext. #1
Wanda Gross
Resident Service Coordinator
207-934-2157 ext. #4
Rev. Renee Kaufman
Chaplain
207-934-2157 ext. #6
Michael Labranche
Facilities
207-934-2157 ext. #3
Jason Moore
Facilities
207-934-2157 ext. #6
Matt Shaffer
Facilities
207-934-2157 ext. #8
