GEAR UP Maine RISE partners with Friends of Katahdin Woods and Waters

AUGUSTA — GEAR UP Maine RISE has announced the collaboration with Friends of Katahdin Woods and Waters, amplifying its commitment to enriching educational experiences for students across Maine.

Syntiro is an organization that is home of the GEAR UP Maine RISE initiative, an Augusta-based organization dedicated to empowering students through enhanced educational opportunities. It has established a strategic partnership with Friends of Katahdin Woods and Waters, a Portland-based organization focused on preserving and celebrating the natural treasures of the national monument that has a history of impactful educational programming in the region.

This alliance seeks to create innovative avenues for students to engage with nature, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental conservation and educational growth. The Friends, an official philanthropic partner to Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, also collaborates with the National Park Service through an educational agreement, according to a news release from Kayla Hopkins with Syntiro.

Through this partnership, the two groups aim to provide GEAR UP Maine students with immersive experiences that blend academic learning with hands-on exploration of the pristine landscapes within the Katahdin Woods and Waters region. Students will have access to a range of educational programs, workshops, outdoor activities and leadership opportunities that integrate environmental studies with real-world applications.

“This collaboration marks an exciting chapter for both organizations as we synergize our efforts to inspire and educate the future leaders of our community,” said Debbie Gilmer, project director of GEAR UP Maine RISE. “By integrating educational initiatives with the beauty of Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, we aim to ignite curiosity and passion for learning among students while fostering a profound appreciation for our natural world.”

The Friends, through its Katahdin Learning Project, will collaborate closely with GEAR UP to offer students opportunities to explore and learn within the landscapes of Katahdin Woods and Waters. The partnership will include nature-based field trips, workshops on conservation practices, and outdoor skill-building activities.

The partnership underscores a joint commitment to enriching students’ educational journeys by integrating experiential learning with environmental awareness. By merging classroom instruction with outdoor exploration, both organizations endeavor to equip students with the knowledge and passion needed to become conscientious custodians of the environment.

For more information, visit gearupme.org and friendsofkww.org.