NEWRY — Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation and Hurricane Island Outward Bound School (HIOBS) have announced a new partnership that ensures the continued use of HIOBS’s basecamp in Newry, Maine, as a hub for outdoor education, recreation, and community engagement, according to a news release. 

Through a lease agreement, Maine Adaptive will assume operations of the campus, relocating its administrative offices and expanding its year-round adaptive recreation programs at the site. The collaboration represents a shared commitment to accessibility, leadership, and the transformative power of the outdoors, according to a news release. Both organizations have deep roots in Maine and a long-standing dedication to helping individuals discover strength, confidence, and community through adventure and challenge. 

“For more than 40 years, the Newry basecamp served as a launching point for life-changing experiences through Outward Bound,” said Eric Denny, Executive Director of Hurricane Island Outward Bound School. “We’re proud that this incredible place will continue to inspire and empower people through Maine Adaptive’s exceptional programs. The work they do to make the outdoors accessible for people of all abilities is truly remarkable, and we’re honored to play a part in this next chapter of the base’s legacy.” 

Maine Adaptive’s move to the Newry campus comes at a pivotal time of growth for the organization. As the demand for adaptive recreation continues to rise, the campus offers the space, infrastructure, and flexibility needed to expand year-round programming. The site includes administrative offices, lodging accommodations, trail access, and ample room for the organization’s growing fleet of adaptive sports equipment—from handcycles and mountain bikes to kayaks and golf carts.

“As Maine Adaptive moves into the Outward Bound facility, we celebrate a shared legacy—one built on the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the joy and challenge of the outdoors,” said Lizz Peacock, Co-Executive Director of Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation. “This exciting new chapter expands access to Maine’s natural spaces and reaffirms our commitment to ensuring that adventure, growth, and belonging are open to all. We’re deeply grateful to HIOBS for entrusting us with this space and for their decades of stewardship in creating a place where challenge, discovery, and community thrive.” 

"While Maine Adaptive’s Sundance Lodge at Sunday River will remain the hub of its winter operations, the Newry campus opens up exciting opportunities for spring, summer, and fall programming—including events, volunteer trainings, and multi-day experiences that reflect the organization’s growing reach," said the release.

For HIOBS, the partnership ensures that the Newry basecamp will continue to serve as a place where people connect with nature, build resilience, and find belonging—values that both organizations share deeply. 

"Together, Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation and Hurricane Island Outward Bound School celebrate this meaningful collaboration and look forward to many years of continued service to the people and communities of Maine," said the release. 

About Hurricane Island Outward Bound School     

Founded in 1964 as Outward Bound’s first sea-based school, Hurricane Island Outward Bound School (HIOBS) is a non-profit educational organization that serves people of all ages through challenging wilderness expeditions in Maine, the Bahamas, and Central America. As one of 9 independent Outward Bound Schools in the U.S., HIOBS represents one of the top educational brands in the nation focusing on character development, leadership, and service. To learn more, visit www.hiobs.org. 

About Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation

Founded in 1982, Maine Adaptive is the largest year-round adaptive recreation program, dedicated to providing high-quality instruction and access to outdoor recreation for individuals with disabilities. With the help of more than 300 dedicated volunteers, Maine Adaptive delivers over 2,500 lessons annually. The program thrives on the generous support of individuals, businesses, corporations, and foundations. To learn more, visit maineadaptive.org.