First County Foundation’s (FCF) board of directors is setting a new standard for community leadership in York County, with members whose professional and personal commitments are shaping the region’s response to urgent needs.
“The strength of FCF’s governance lies in the lived experience and dedication of its members, who are deeply invested in the well-being of York County,” said Chief Advancement Officer Rachel Stansfield.
Among those board members is Diane Small, who also serves as executive director of the Sanford Housing Authority. Small’s decades-long commitment to housing and recovery services exemplifies the board’s impact. “Housing is the foundation for stability,” Small said. “All other supports—whether food, recovery, or employment—are built on the ability to have a safe place to live.”
Small’s career began at the Sanford General Assistance office. She later moved into the role of Chief Operating Officer of York County Shelter Programs, where she was part of a curated team assembled by York County Manager Greg Zinser that created Layman’s Way Recovery Center, a 24-bed facility for substance use treatment.
At Sanford Housing Authority, her leadership has led to the development of a new 30-unit recovery-supportive housing project, funded in part by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and supported by the City of Sanford and York County. The initiative provides no-barrier housing for individuals at any stage of substance use or recovery, with access to case management and supportive services.
“My parents taught me the importance of compassion and dignity,” said Small. “I saw how housing instability could disrupt families and impact children. This project is about giving people the opportunity to rebuild, regardless of where they are in their journey.”
The new housing initiative is closely connected to the York County Substance Use Treatment and Recovery Center in Alfred, which will offer a comprehensive range of care—from detoxification to long-term recovery—beginning in early 2026. The coordinated approach seeks to address service gaps and provide a direct pathway from crisis to stability.
“There is currently no clear pathway for people in York County to access detox and recovery without leaving their community,” Small said. “Our partnership with FCF and York County will allow individuals to transition directly from treatment into supportive housing, eliminating many of the barriers that have kept people from getting the help they need.”
While the York County Government will operate the Treatment and Recovery Center, FCF is its charitable arm. Founded in 2023, FCF is charged with a mission “to support and strengthen safe and healthy communities by resourcing transformational solutions to the emergent needs of York County.”
In addition to the Treatment and Recovery Center, FCF is responsible for raising funds for the York County First Responder Training Center, set to open in late 2025.
“It’s terrific to have people like Diane on our board who understand the complex issues we are addressing,” said Stansfield. “Her insight and commitment ensure that our efforts are grounded in the real needs of York County residents.”
About First County Foundation
Founded in 2023, FCF is charged with a mission “to support and strengthen safe and healthy communities by resourcing transformational solutions to the emergent needs of York County.”
Contact Us
If you have any questions about FCF, please get in touch with Rachel Stansfield at 207.459.7055 or restansfield@yorkcountymaine.gov.