Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Maine, a program of Downeast Health Services, was one of 40 nonprofit organizations across Maine to receive a $5,000 grant from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation in a ceremony Oct. 15 in Portland.

Attendees included Maine Gov. John Baldacci, Bank of America Maine Market President Betsy Greenstein and managers from Bank of America’s Maine banking centers.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Maine was selected to receive the grant in support of its ongoing commitment to improving the quality and vitality of their community.

Big Brothers Big Sisters provides children meaningful one-to-one mentoring relationships with caring adults. The Bank of America contribution will provide opportunities for more children to experience change, see the world from a different viewpoint, have fun, be creative in new ways and realize the benefits of knowing an adult as a trusted friend.