Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation was thrilled to host an Adaptive Exploration Event at L.L.Bean’s new employee fitness center in Freeport on Tuesday, September 30. The event welcomed L.L.Bean employees and members of the company’s retired community for a day of learning, hands-on experiences, and celebration of Maine Adaptive’s mission.
This special event highlighted the transformative impact of L.L.Bean’s support while offering attendees a chance to learn about volunteer opportunities and see firsthand how adaptive sports make Maine’s outdoors accessible to everyone.
The day featured a Lunch & Learn session, interactive demonstrations of adaptive equipment, and opportunities for employees to try out different sports. Participants enjoyed activities such as adaptive cycling and even trying pickleball outdoors, gaining a firsthand understanding of the skill, accessibility, and fun involved in adaptive sports.
During the Lunch & Learn, volunteer Steve shared his perspective on what it means to give back at Maine Adaptive. He emphasized that volunteers don’t need to be experts in a sport to get involved—there are many meaningful ways to contribute. In fact, Steve’s very first volunteer role was simply helping clean up after an event. His advice encouraged employees to see that every task, big or small, makes a difference in supporting athletes and the organization’s mission.
Maine Adaptive staff played a key role in the event. Enock and Nate presented to a group of 20 employees, sharing insight into Maine Adaptive’s programs, mission, and impact. Meanwhile, Mary and Brian engaged with numerous attendees at a demo table, showcasing adaptive equipment and providing information about the organization’s work and volunteer opportunities.
Attendees were able to explore a wide range of adaptive equipment—from adaptive bikes and sit-skis to sports chairs and adaptive golf carts—and see how Maine Adaptive makes recreation possible for individuals of all abilities.
“L.L.Bean’s partnership has been instrumental in fueling Maine Adaptive’s growth and expanding access to outdoor recreation over the past several years,” said Amy Bannon-Staats, Co-Executive Director of Maine Adaptive. “From generous financial support to the countless hours their employees dedicate as volunteers, L.L.Bean’s commitment has been nothing short of transformative. This event was not only our chance to celebrate and thank them for championing our mission, but also to welcome their employees, past and present, to experience adaptive sports firsthand.”
About Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation
Founded in 1982, Maine Adaptive is the largest year-round adaptive recreation program in the state, providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage in sports. With the help of more than 400 dedicated volunteers, Maine Adaptive delivers over 3,500 lessons annually. The program thrives on the generous support of individuals, businesses, corporations, and foundations, making outdoor recreation accessible to all.