FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Amy Bannon, Managing Director
Email: abannon@maineadaptive.org
Phone: (207) 824-2440
Newry, Maine – On Friday, January 24, 2025, Maine Adaptive welcomed over 20 disabled veterans, along with their families and caregivers, for a four-day adventure in the Newry and Bethel area. The Veterans No Boundaries (VNB) weekend camp at Sunday River Ski Resort was founded 22 years ago with the mission of serving veterans with disabilities and their families by helping them participate in adaptive sports and recreation alongside their loved ones.
During the event, the group was honored to welcome Congressman Jared Golden, who attended a morning session to meet with veterans, hear their stories, and learn about their experiences with Maine Adaptive. The Congressman even joined participants on the slopes, taking a few runs in a sit-ski.
Veterans spent two and a half days skiing and snowboarding at Sunday River and enjoyed a full day in Bethel, based at Crescent Park Elementary School. Groups explored different activities, including visiting the Maine Mineral & Gem Museum, watching a film at The Gem Theater, shopping in local stores, playing pickleball, and enjoying board games at the school.
“Congressman Golden listened intently as our veterans shared their thoughts on the services they need and the opportunities that have made a difference in their lives. It’s inspiring to see leaders take the time to connect with our community, and we’re grateful for his support of veterans and adaptive programs,” said Mary Scanlon, Communications Coordinator for Maine Adaptive. Brandon Merry, Senior Program Manager shared. “Together, we continue to empower lives through the joy of adaptive recreation! All of the veterans and family members surpassed their goals—there was lots of networking, friendships created, and positive experiences for new participants. Our volunteers had their hearts filled with pride and joy from their lessons!”
Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation is a Maine-based non-profit that promotes year-round education and training for individuals with disabilities to develop skills, enhance independence, and provide enjoyment through active recreation. The organization hosts two VNB camps annually—one in the summer and another in the winter. Participants consistently report meaningful benefits, from forming bonds with those who share similar military experiences to strengthening connections with their families through adaptive sports.
Maine Adaptive extends its deepest gratitude to the following local businesses and individuals for their generosity and support in making this event possible:
● Sunday River Ski Resort for providing lift tickets for all attendees and for their staff’s incredible hospitality in making the on-mountain experience unforgettable.
● Frank DelDuca for opening his restaurant, Franks, not only for breakfast service but also for donating two fantastic dinners.
● Crescent Park School for serving as our base camp while the group explored Bethel.
● The Gem Theater for providing a fun and relaxing movie experience.
● The Maine Mineral & Gem Museum for wowing attendees with exhibits featuring Bethel gems, the moon, and beyond.
● Brooks Brothers for their quick response in addressing a pipe issue.
● Riverview Hotel for allowing our participants to enjoy some pool time.
● The Good Food Store for a fabulous lunch.
● West Paris Provisions for their generous donation to support the camp.
● Karen & Rob Anderson
● Jefferson Food Pantry
● Kirstie & Nate Jarret
● Hannaford
● Market Basket
● Sam’s Club
● Walmart
● Kathy Peabody
Maine Adaptive is deeply appreciative of the community’s support in ensuring that veterans and their families have access to these life-changing experiences. For more information on upcoming events and ways to support Maine Adaptive, please visit www.maineadaptive.org.