Making a Splash! 4H program spends a day on the water

This summer, participants in Mano en Mano’s 4-H program had the chance to connect with the natural world in a whole new way—by stepping into canoes and kayaks and paddling the waters of the Orange River in Whiting, Maine.

With support from our friends at Maine Coast Heritage Trust (MCHT) and the Conservation Shores Outdoor Education Program, our students learned the basics of canoeing and kayaking, from water safety and paddling techniques to how to navigate and explore with care and respect for the environment.

For many participants, this was their first time kayaking and canoeing —and the experience was equal parts exciting, challenging, and joyful.

"This was really fun," said one participant. "I would love to do it again."

This hands-on experience is part of Mano en Mano’s commitment to offering youth opportunities to build confidence, explore the outdoors, and develop leadership skills. Our 4-H program blends leadership practice, celebrating identity, environmental education, and fun to create spaces where youth can grow, thrive, and belong.

We're deeply grateful to our friends at Maine Coast Heritage Trust and Conservation Shores Outdoor Education Program for making this trip possible. Their partnership helps us open up new pathways for learning that will stay with our students long after the trip ends.

Gracias to everyone who made this adventure happen!