Pictured here (left) Owner/Broker Monica LaVerdiere and Lorie Olson, realtor and Co-Leader for Paris Pickleball
PARIS — Two local entities are joining forces to address the epidemic of loneliness and do their part in improving mental health in the community. The Town of Paris Recreation Dept. is hearing from citizens about a need for programs to combat loneliness, isolation, and boredom, lingering from the pandemic. Studies have shown that mental health issues, anxiety, and depression have increased because of the lack of social connection and positive activity. Expanding the Rec. programs in Paris, especially during the long winter, has been an important emphasis.
Bearfoot Realty of Oxford, established in 2010, is known for its community spirit in Oxford Hills and recently donated $500 towards the new Paris Rec Dept’s Pickleball Program. This fun, healthy sport for all ages and athletic abilities, offers an opportunity to become active, meet new people, laugh, and feel a part of the community. The demand has been tremendous, with over 210 people interested. Pickleball is an easy-to-learn game featuring a mash-up of the best elements of Ping Pong, Badminton, Tennis, and Wiffleball.
‘In 2024, our focus is on helping change the stigma of mental health in the Oxford Hills and surrounding towns,’ said Monica LaVerdiere, Designated Broker and Owner of Bearfoot Realty. ‘One goal is for us to support different activities for people to gather, become active, share stories, network, and learn different techniques to make them feel better. I’ve heard what they are doing at the Paris Rec. Dept and our sponsorship donation will help offset the fees for beginner Pickleball attendees and ensure the program can continue to grow.’
‘While we love to help people sell and buy real estate,’ LaVerdiere explained, ‘We also love to give back to the communities in which we work and also live. When local people are in need, we try to help.’ She started a Facebook page called Bear with Me, which reveals her struggles with depression and anxiety, and ‘hopes it’s the beginning of open and comfortable communication about mental health.’
For information about the Town of Paris programs and events, contact KC at the Recreation Dept. at rec@parismaine.org, call (207) 743-2510 x 8, or visit their Paris Parks & Recreation Committee Facebook page. For those interested in LaVerdiere’s Bear with Me Campaign, call 207-890-1971 or visit their Facebook Page.
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