Your support helps connect youth to the land

Inspiring Youth

Inspiring Youth Through Place-Based Learning

The Katahdin region is more than a place on a map, it is a living classroom filled with forests, rivers, mountains, wildlife, culture, and community stories. Through the Katahdin Learning Project (KLP), Friends of Katahdin Woods & Waters helps young people build meaningful connections to Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument and the broader landscape while developing confidence, curiosity, leadership, and a lifelong sense of stewardship. All programs are offered at no cost to participants, thanks to your support.

  • calendarEstablished in 2016
  • school11 schools visited during 2025-26 school year
  • person1,865 student experiences during 2025-26 school year
  • list134 programs offered during 2025-26 school year
  • clock2,010 youth service learning hours logged since 2016
  • checkmarkOver 200 teachers in place-based professional development workshops since 2016

Learning Beyond the Classroom

KLP believes some of the most meaningful learning happens outside. Students explore local rivers through water quality testing, discover forest ecology on trail hikes, learn wilderness skills, paddle remote waterways, participate in stewardship projects, and engage with the cultural and natural history of the Katahdin region. Programs are designed to connect directly with Maine learning standards while helping students see themselves as active participants in their communities.

  • Guided family hike in Katahdin Woods & Waters Photo: Taylor Walker
  • Water quality testing as part of a community program Photo: She of the Flowers
  • Learning paddling skills with the Katahdin Region Outdoor Collective Photo: She of the Flowers
  • Children are exploring a wooded area, crossing a small creek on a log while dressed in colorful jackets.
  • A group of happy people poses with ski poles in front of a rustic cabin, surrounded by snow and trees under a blue sky.
  • Two children explore a forest, with one pointing excitedly while the other looks on, surrounded by colorful autumn leaves.
  • A group of children gathers around an adult, learning with sticks on the forest floor, surrounded by leaves.
  • A group of adults and kids poses on a mountain overlook with green trees and a scenic view in the background.

Connecting Youth to Land and Future Pathways

At its heart, KLP is about connection: connection to place, to community, and to future possibilities. Students are introduced to outdoor careers, conservation work, recreation opportunities, and leadership experiences that help them envision futures rooted in the Katahdin region. Programs often emphasize stewardship and reciprocal relationships with the land, helping youth understand both the ecological and cultural importance of the Katahdin landscape, including the perspectives and ongoing connections of Wabanaki communities.

These programs have proven to be deeply impactful to youth. Read a report on the impact of these programs here. This report was made possible thanks to the Katahdin Collaborative.

Testimonials

  • “This is the best day ever; I’m in my happy place.”
    Student
  • “If we learn about nature and tell ten people and then they tell ten people, we are really making a difference.”
    Student
  • “From a volunteer and former teacher’s perspective, the Katahdin Learning Project provides a wonderful opportunity for students and teachers to explore our natural environment and history in an interactive, healthy learning environment.”
    Teacher
  • “Our kids have come to feel a connection with the leaders and have learned so much from the various programs. Thank you for making these opportunities available right here in the Katahdin Region!”
    Parent
  • “We are new to Millinocket. It is so important for us to feel connected to our community….These camps help our daughter socialize, get to know the natural resources in the area, and her new community.”
    Parent
  • “I like for my kids to learn and be exposed to positive community leaders, like the people who help with this camp.”
    Parent
  • “My son felt high levels of self acceptance because of the support provided by the adults in charge… hank you!”
    Parent
  • “We greatly appreciate these programs! The fact they have been free is amazing. Our kids have come to feel a connection with the leaders and have learned so much.”
    Parent