Larissa Holland will discuss how the youth-led nonprofit JustME for JustUS (JMJU) is empowering rural youth in Maine to take the lead on local projects that support strong, resilient communities. The talk, "How Rural Youth Are Strengthening Maine’s Communities and Landscapes" is the next talk in the Rockport Library’s program series in partnership with the Appalachian Mountain Club - Maine Chapter, Wednesday, Aug. 27, at 6 p.m. 

From hosting town forums to engaging their neighbors in conversations about environment and community, Holland will spotlight inspiring young leaders who are rooted in place and committed to preserving the values and landscapes that define rural life.

Larissa Holland is an aviation sustainability professional, avid dancer, amateur backpacker, and JMJU's Development Advisor. She grew up in Maine's rural landscape and credits the Bold Coast for instilling in her a sense of responsibility to protect people and place. Holland was the first in her family to go to college and has since graduated from Smith College with a degree in both Environmental Science & Policy (ES&P) and Architecture. She resides in Bath, Maine.

Founded in 1876, the Appalachian Mountain Club is America’s oldest conservation and recreation organization. With more than 100,000 members, advocates, and supporters in the Northeast and beyond, the nonprofit AMC promotes the protection, enjoyment, and stewardship of the mountains, forests, waters, and trails of the Appalachian region. Visit rockportlibrary.net for updates on upcoming talks in the series.