Under the auspices of the Maine Nutrition Network (MNN), nutrition education projects are designed and implemented through collaborative partnerships with various community agencies, organizations and individuals. The goal of MNN projects is to create an environment where Maine adults and youth make informed food and physical activity choices that support optimal health. MNN projects, which are targeted to participants in the USDA Food Stamp Program, include nutrition training and support for teachers, a nutrition social marketing campaign and training and technical assistance for the Healthy Maine Partnerships as they create supportive environments in their communities. MNN also provides Network partners a forum for networking and opportunities to participate in professional development activities.

Work under this agreement includes several training initiatives designed to help ASPIRE move clients from welfare to work. MSPS staff will develop and facilitate training for supervisory and managerial staff to enhance their ability to support staff responsible for helping clients find employment. Training will focus on the program fundamentals including ASPIRE philosophy, program rules, and effective case management skills. Training will incorporate use of critical thinking tools to thoroughly explore client circumstances and strengths related to work. The training will assist staff in going beyond standard questionnaires and case plans to see the types of connections between information that are necessary to develop workable client placements. MSPS will facilitate one session of TANF Orientation training for new presenters. MSPS will also work with an ASPIRE workgroup to update the online training manual that supervisors use when training new ASPIRE Specialists to ensure that it reflects the ASPIRE philosophy and updated OFI/ASPIRE policies practices.