In western Maine,  Second Nature Adventure Challenge will kick off its winter 2023 outdoor recreation challenge Feb. 17.  

With leadership from the Oxford County Wellness Collaborative, each winter and summer for the past three years the Maine West initiative has challenged people in the western Maine areas of Oxford Hills, the Bethel/Mahoosuc region, and the River Valley to earn cash rewards for local youth organizations. This winter, Maine West is challenging people to get out for 400 outdoor adventures Feb. 17 – 26 to help local youth and after school programs that get kids outside enjoying nature. 

Once the challenge goal is met, Maine West will contribute $1,500 ($500 each) to help three local programs pay for supplies, equipment, and more to help kids enjoy outdoor adventures. Beneficiaries of the Winter 2023 Second Nature Adventure Challenge include: 

Maine West is a partnership of local and regional organizations, coordinated by the Northern Forest Center, working across the economic, education, health, and conservation sectors to position rural western Maine communities as viable and attractive places to live, work, do business, and raise families.