MaineECO’s mentorship offerings go beyond one-time training.
They are centered in relationship-building, grounded in real-world practice, and shaped by the unique goals, questions, and contexts of each educator or program.

Whether you’re just beginning or looking to strengthen an established outdoor program, MaineECO offers support that can lead to lasting change.

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Mentorship Program

MaineECO’s Mentorship Program provides 10–12 hours of individualized technical assistance for administrators and program leaders seeking to deepen or expand their outdoor practice.

Mentorship is goal-oriented and collaborative, supporting participants to:

  • Clarify their vision for outdoor learning

  • Set tangible, achievable goals

  • Identify and access resources needed for growth

  • Navigate challenges related to policy, staffing, space, or programming

This offering is ideal for leaders who want thoughtful, sustained support rather than one-size-fits-all guidance.

Individual and On-Site Workshops

Looking for professional development tailored specifically to your community? MaineECO offers customized workshops for staff teams, boards, parents, and community groups.

Workshops are designed in collaboration with you and can be offered on-site or virtually. Common topics include:

  • Introduction to Outdoor Nature-Based Learning (ONB)

  • Weather & Gear for Outdoor Learning

  • Risky Play

  • Outdoor learning for specific age groups (including Infant/Toddler or early elementary)

These workshops bring an ONB expert directly to your setting and are shaped by your goals, experience level, and audience.

Communities of Practice

MaineECO’s Communities of Practice (CoPs) create space for educators to learn together, build relationships, and strengthen practice over time.

CoPs are:

  • Regular, loosely structured gatherings

  • Professionally facilitated

  • Rooted in shared problem-solving, reflection, and celebration

Current Communities of Practice include:

  • Southern Maine Outdoor Time CoP, offered in partnership with Maine Roads to Quality (MRTQ) link for registration

  • Before the Boots Book Group, an Infant/Toddler-focused community centered on shared reading and discussion…Coming June 2026!

  • Quarterly gatherings for participants of the Mentorship Program and Rooted in Play training. By invitation.

These communities support educators in staying connected, supported, and inspired—long after a single training ends.

  • Why This Approach Matters

    Outdoor nature-based learning is deeply relational work. By offering mentorship, customized workshops, and communities of practice, MaineECO supports educators and programs in ways that are responsive, sustainable, and grounded in real-world experience.

    Together, these offerings strengthen individuals, programs, and the broader field—building a connected community of practice across Maine.

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