WESTBROOK – WinterKids is proud to announce this year’s recipients of the WinterKids Adventure Fund, supporting inclusive, multi-week winter programs that will serve more than 1,300 Maine children during the 2025-26 season.
The WinterKids Adventure Fund helps ensure that all children, regardless of background, can access the joy, learning, and lifelong health benefits of winter activity. Through meaningful partnerships and community-rooted programs, these grants break down financial and geographic barriers so kids can learn, move, and thrive outdoors.
“This year’s recipients reflect a shared commitment to helping children grow through winter play,” said Josh Harrington, family programs & outreach manager at WinterKids. “From cross-country trails to alpine slopes, these programs will spark new skills, confidence, and connection for hundreds of Maine kids.”
2025-26 WinterKids Adventure Fund recipients:
- Quoggy Jo Ski Center (Presque Isle)
Serving 200 children | Grant: $3,500
Funding after-school ski programs that create opportunities for youth in Aroostook County to stay active, learn new skills, and build community at their local hill.
- Ski 4 Life Program at Big Rock (Mars Hill)
Serving 600 children | Grant: $2,500
Supporting an engaging after-school program designed to introduce and nurture a lifelong love of skiing, using an innovative button system to promote safety, confidence, and progression on the slopes.
- Sugarloaf Ski Club (Carrabassett Valley)
Serving 500 children | Grant: $4,000
Enhancing access to the popular Sunday ski program, a long-standing initiative that connects kids and families with one of Maine’s most iconic winter destinations.
- MICA Project (Bethel Area)
Serving 50 children | Grant: $5,000
Expanding access to cross-country ski series for youth in Western Maine, meeting children where they are with equipment, instruction, and a warm welcome to the trails.
These four grantees exemplify WinterKids’ belief that winter is for everyone — and that with the right support, every child can experience the wonder, freedom and adventure of winter.
WinterKids helps children develop healthy lifelong habits through education and fun outdoor winter activity. With programs for schools, families and communities, WinterKids programs remove barriers to outdoor play and encourage kids across Maine to move, learn, and thrive in winter. Learn more at www.winterkids.org.
