Knickerbocker Group announced it raised $10,000 through its Maine Strong campaign. The employee-owned design-build firm directed 100% of the net proceeds to the Lewiston-Auburn Area Response Fund for victim families through the Maine Community Foundation (MaineCF). The Lewiston-Auburn Area Response Fund was created to support the immediate and long-term needs of the community impacted by the October 25, 2023 mass shooting, including the organizations that will help guide Lewiston-Auburn through the healing process.

Influenced by the tragedy, Knickerbocker Group architect Eric Wittman sketched 18 New Stars Join the North Star Over Maine. Inspired to create a beacon of unity, support, and community through his illustration, and with the responsive assistance of team members, Wittman’s sketch was printed on T-shirts and hoodies to bring the Maine Strong campaign to fruition. The apparel was produced by Westbrook-based screen printer, 320 Ink, and Knickerbocker Group and the community beyond shared the Maine Strong campaign via social media, email, and news channels. By Nov. 30, the fundraiser raised $8,400. Knickerbocker Group’s Sponsorships, Civic Engagement + Networking (SCEN) Committee donated an additional $1,600 to bring the total donation to $10,000.