SCREENING IN THE BERNARD OSHER FOUNDATION AUDITORIUM
16 minutes (followed by panel discussion). Not Rated. Directed by Nate Wind. In English.
This is a free short film screening followed by a panel discussion. See below for more information on the film and the panelists.
Project Home (formerly Quality Housing Coalition) presents a short documentary examining housing navigation and eviction prevention through the experiences of program staff and the people they support. The film, directed by Nate Wind, spotlights two former foster youths who share their firsthand journeys with the Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) voucher program. A panel discussion will follow, featuring individuals with lived experience, program staff, and Maine District 11 Senator Chip Curry, offering insight into the systemic challenges facing young people transitioning out of foster care.
Panelist Bios:
Austin Pine is a Housing Navigator with the Quality Housing Coalition’s FYI program, where he supports young people in securing stable housing and building pathways toward long-term independence. Originally from Burlington, Vermont, Austin grew up with affordable housing as “the family business,” with both parents working in the field throughout his childhood. He studied English and Psychology at McGill University before beginning a career focused on youth development, serving in mentorship and support roles in Vermont and later at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Providence, Rhode Island.
Austin moved to Maine a little over two years ago with his now-wife, where they have been establishing roots both personally and professionally. He finds deep meaning in the challenges and rewards of housing navigation work and remains committed to strengthening outcomes for youth. Austin is currently pursuing his Master of Social Work at the University of Southern Maine, aiming to further help young people clarify their values and build lives that feel purposeful and grounded.
Senator Chip Curry represents Maine Senate District 11, encompassing all of Waldo County. Now serving his third term, Senator Curry chairs the Legislature’s Joint Standing Committee on Housing & Economic Development, where he has championed practical, community-driven solutions to Maine’s housing challenges. His work focuses on expanding access to affordable housing, strengthening rural infrastructure, and supporting policies that help working families and seniors remain in their communities.
Before his election, Senator Curry spent over two decades in higher education and youth development, including service at Unity College and the University of Maine at Augusta’s Rockland Center, helping adult learners and nontraditional students succeed. A long-time resident of Belfast, he brings a deep understanding of rural needs and the importance of collaboration among local, state, and nonprofit partners. He lives in Belfast with his wife, Christi, an educator, and their daughter.
Marpheen Chann is a dynamic advocate whose leadership bridges housing equity, community building, and social justice. As Executive Director of Khmer Maine, he drives programs that support Maine’s Cambodian and broader AAPI communities, partnering to address land, civic, and economic justice. He also serves on the Quality Housing Coalition board, bringing his deep personal and policy insight to efforts expanding access to quality, affordable housing in Maine.
A first-generation Asian American adopted into a white, working-class household, Marpheen’s memoir Moon in Full traces his journey through foster care, housing insecurity, and self-discovery—stories that inform his passionate work on equity and inclusion. He holds a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Southern Maine and a J.D. from the University of Maine School of Law, and previously served on Portland’s Planning Board.
