Two youth interns have been working at Roberts Farm Experiential Learning this summer thanks to support from Maine West, a partnership of local and regional organizations dedicated to addressing systemic rural challenges and enhancing community well-being in western Maine. The Center manages the Maine West partnership.

The interns support the Youth Leadership Program, which is a four-week program for middle and high school students in the Oxford Hills area, run in partnership with the Alan Day Community Garden.

Highlights of the program’s work this summer include student-led lessons with local elementary summer school students, more than 30 pounds of lettuce harvested by students for the school district’s food service program, and many hikes on the trails at Roberts Farm Preserve.

“Maine West supports programs that expose youth to work and career opportunities, especially those available right here in Western Maine,” said Center Program Manager Amy Scott. “Partner organizations are working with schools to develop log-term community partnerships that provide students with meaningful experiences.”

Roberts Farm Experiential Learning is a partnership between the Western Foothills Land Trust, Oxford Hills School District and Healthy Oxford Hills.