Portside’s 1% Back to Maine initiative is proud to announce the awarding of a $10,000 grant to Teens To Trails. This funding is dedicated to enriching outdoor experiences and fostering the continued growth of community-oriented programs that inspire and empower young adventurers.
Carol and Bob Leone envisioned raising their family in a community that embraced the outdoors. In 1988, they left their careers with the National Park Service and the Appalachian Trail Conference to build a life in Maine, creating countless cherished outdoor memories. However, they were struck by how many families they met were not taking advantage of Maine’s breathtaking natural spaces. Concerned that children, in particular, were becoming increasingly disconnected from the outdoors, they sought to make a difference.
Their mission became even more profound in 2005 when they experienced the heartbreaking loss of their 15-year-old daughter, Sara, in a car accident. In her memory—and inspired by her deep love for the outdoors—they founded Teens to Trails, a program dedicated to ensuring that students of Sara's age have the opportunity to connect with nature and experience the transformative power of outdoor adventure.
Portside is proud to support Teens to Trails in their mission to connect Maine’s youth with the outdoors. We believe in the power of nature to inspire, educate, and promote well-being, and Teens to Trails ensures all teens—regardless of background—can experience these benefits. By supporting high school outing clubs and advocating for equitable outdoor access, they foster adventure, confidence, and environmental stewardship. We stand with Teens to Trails in making the outdoors more accessible and look forward to continuing our support of their important work.
Support Teens To Trails today and promote the beauty of connection and nature for the generations upon us.
Footer Social Links