NORTHEAST HARBOR — Maine Seacoast Mission was recently awarded a $50,000 grant from the Evelyn S. and K.E. Barrett Foundation to support two youth education programs operating in Maine’s rural communities. "Journey" serves Washington County teens while the "Teaching & Learning Collaborative" (TLC) works with children aged five to 13 living on outer, unbridged islands.  

The Journey program is based on the Mission’s Downeast Campus in Cherryfield and works with students in the Downeast region. Journey is a cohort-based model that provides seventh through twelfth grade students opportunities to build personal, career, and post-secondary education aspirations. The program offers individual support, outdoor excursions, immersive experiences, access to professionals, college exploration opportunities, preparation workshops, and assistance with scholarship applications. 

The Teaching & Learning Collaborative works with students and teachers at one- and two-room schoolhouses on Chebeague, Cliff Island, the Cranberry Isles, Frenchboro, Isle au Haut, Matinicus, and Monhegan.  

"These small, isolated schools can be vital, innovative, and collaborative centers of teaching and learning that prepare students to thrive in their communities and beyond," said  Maine Seacoast Mission, in a news release. "The TLC supports these schools through multiple virtual touchpoints every week and several multi-day, in-person events every year."    

Mission President John Zavodny said: “Journey and TLC both work to expand the horizons of students they serve. We’re grateful to the Evelyn S. and K.E. Barrett Foundation continued support and belief in the impactful work of childhood education and the development of youth aspirations.” 

The Evelyn S. and K.E. Barrett Foundation supports organizations that work to improve children’s health, safety, and education to create opportunities for their enrichment so that they may live fulfilling lives. 

-

Rooted in a history of compassionate service and mutual trust, Maine Seacoast Mission seeks to strengthen coastal and island communities by educating youth, supporting families, and promoting good health. For more information, please visit https://seacoastmission.org/