For Immediate Release
Contact:
Mary Scanlon
Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation
mscanlon@maineadaptive.org | (207) 824-2440 ext. 03
Date: December 2025
PEAKS ISLAND, Maine — Almost every day this past summer, as the ferry from Portland docked at Peaks Island, passengers stepping ashore were greeted by an unexpected and delightful sight: a young islander named Abbott, standing proudly beside a customised wagon and one or two of his three beloved chickens, Strawberry, Raspberry, and Blackberry.
This was Abbott’s second summer bringing his feathered friends out to greet island visitors. “I position my chicken cart on the hill so when people get off the ferry, they see us,” Abbott explains. “It’s funny watching city folks who’ve never seen a real chicken before stop in surprise.”
What began as a fun summer activity ultimately blossomed into something extraordinary. One sunny afternoon, a curious ferry passenger stopped to meet Abbott’s feathered friends, snapped a photo, and handed him five dollars. “That’s when we realized this could be something,” Abbott recalls with a grin. “We came home with thirty dollars that day.”
Soon, Abbott decided to turn those dollars into something meaningful. After donating his first $500 to a local Peaks Island school program he attended as a child, Abbott set his sights on a new goal, raising money for Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation – the organization that introduced him to snowboarding.
Abbott is 13 years old and first became associated with the Maine Adaptive community through the program at Pleasant Mountain, then known as Pleasant Mountain Adaptive, a school-based adaptive program for youth with disabilities to learn how to ski and ride. Though not a student, Abbott is closely connected to the organization, particularly by helping one of our lead volunteers, Glenn Yale. Glenn, who previously served as director of the adaptive program Pleasant Mountain in addition to being a snowboard instructor, took Abbott under his wing. “My first snowboarding lesson happened to be with Glenn, who was available that day to take on an extra lesson. He’s important to me; we became friends and remain connected.” Abbott often fondly refers to Glenn as his “snowboard grandpa.” The two can often be found together on the mountain.
Abbott and his chickens have quickly become local celebrities on Peaks Island, spreading joy, laughter, and goodwill to residents, visitors, and travelers from around the world. Abbott’s chickens each have their own personalities. Strawberry, a Buff Orpington, is “like the Golden Retriever of chickens, easy-going and sweet.” Raspberry, his favorite, is social and affectionate, and Blackberry, a Rhode Island Red, is “a little more independent but still likes attention and snacks.” Together, they’ve become something of an island attraction. “A little girl once asked if she could pet my dog,” Abbott laughs, “and then realized it was a chicken!” A man even asked me once if he could buy one of my chickens!
Inspired by these experiences, Abbott has decided to give back to Maine Adaptive, and true to form, Abbott has already raised $1,300 for their Ski-A-Thon scheduled for March 22, 2026, at Sunday River Ski Resort.
For Abbott, giving back just feels like a good thing to be doing. “It just feels good to help,” he says simply.
Amy Bannon, Co-Executive Director of Maine Adaptive, shared her admiration for Abbott’s creativity and compassion:
“Abbott’s story captures the spirit of Maine Adaptive perfectly. We love seeing young people connect with our mission in such unique and heartfelt ways. His enthusiasm, kindness, and desire to give back give us so much hope for the future.”
So, the next time you step off the ferry onto Peaks Island, follow the sound of laughter up the hill, you might find Abbott, Raspberry, Strawberry, and Blackberry ready to greet you with a smile, a story, and a reminder that even the smallest gestures can make a big impact.
Photo Credits: Heather Wasklewicz and Mary Scanlon
Additional photos are available upon request: Please contact Mary Scanlon, mscanlon@maineadaptive.org or 207-824-2440 ext. 03
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 over 300dedicated volunteers, Maine Adaptive delivers more than 2,500 lessons annually. The program thrives on the generous support of individuals, businesses, corporations, and foundations. Visit www.maineadaptive.org to learn more.