Team WinterKids is passionate about helping kids to be active outdoors!
It takes unique people to fill important positions in a small nonprofit with such a large reach. Our collective team is excellent at what we do and takes great pride in our programs.
We work hard. We have fun. We laugh a lot. We love winter. And, we love kids!
Julie’s #WhyWinterKids
I am a public health advocate at heart. We need to help kids to move more, connect with nature, and play outdoors—their physical, mental, and spiritual health depends on it. Kids want to be outside and active in the winter; it is our job to nurture their inherent love for adventure and exploration. Growing up in northern Maine, it was the norm to throw on your winter gear and toboggan down a treacherous hill, or play King (Queen) of the Mountain on the biggest snowbank in your yard. The more snow the better. Cold temperatures didn’t matter. WinterKids feeds that nostalgia. I am proud that our programs reach the most rural communities of Maine and kids who need us most. In a state with unique people and unique challenges, I love that we offer something for everyone to experience the joy and health benefits of being a “winter kid.” I truly love this job.
Julie’s Top 10
My boys, live music (Martin Sexton), public health, laughing, Words With Friends, lake life, empathy, Burt’s Bees red dahlia lip balm, a great story, Elvis.
Marion’s #WhyWinterKids
I grew up in a small town in NH with the lake and mountains in my backyard-no computer, one television channel with lousy reception, and parents who encouraged us to get outside in all seasons, but my fondest memories are winter ones. I learned there was far more fun to be had outdoors than in. Those roots are strong, and eventually led me to WinterKids, and my dream job—helping kids and educators connect with nature in our longest (and best!) season. I wish every child had the opportunities and parents that I had. Why WinterKids? Because every child does not.
Marion’s Top 10
Friends & Family, Kids (especially the Grands 😉 ), Snow, Skiing, Being on or in the ocean, Being outside in every season, Integrity/Honesty/Loyalty, The Antiques Roadshow, Knitting, Gardening
Mary-Theresa’s #WhyWinterKids
I was fortunate enough to have parents who taught my brothers and I the adventures you can have outside in the wintertime. Between the homemade tubing park, my Dad made for us in our yard each winter to skipping school (on half days) for skiing in the mountains. I’m so lucky my parents taught me to embrace the cold and be active outside, no matter the conditions. I am blessed to have a job where I play a small role in providing the same opportunities for kids across Maine and in New Hampshire.
Mary-Theresa’s Top 10
My family and friends who are like family, being active all year long OUTSIDE, laughing, dancing, personal growth, and development, creating impactful experiences for others, listening to audiobooks, making jewelry, binge-watching NCIS or The Closer, Lobster Rolls.
Josh’s #WhyWinterKids
Growing up, I was lucky to be outside all the time, especially in the winter. Being in the mountains and lakes has become a lifestyle that keeps me looking for the next adventure. I want to help the next generation find the same fulfillment mother nature provided me. Seeing young kids having the time of their life outside in the winter is why I wanted to be a part of this amazing team of people.
Josh’s Top 10
My mom and sister, friends from all over, SNOW, summiting a new mountain, slashing a powder turn on skis, laying down a carve on water skis, meeting new people, lending a hand, coffee, sushi
Heather’s #WhyWinterKids
As a child growing up in a family that didn’t appreciate the Winter months for what they could offer, I never understood all the opportunities. I want to be a part of the organization that can help teach those families to possibly have a different outlook on Winter.
Heather’s Top 10
Family time, gardening, fall, pineapple, Lincoln and Lucy (my fur babes), camping, fuzzy blankets, bike rides, swimming, bonfires.
Kristel’s #WhyWinterKids
I grew up in sunny California, where getting outside year-round is easy for kids. Now a proud Maine resident, I find the long winters to be challenging without the opportunity to get outside. So many families in Maine accept this challenge as an excuse to stay indoors and kids who might normally enjoy playing outside learn to do the same. It’s OUR responsibility to show kids how real connections can be made outdoors.
Kristel’s Top 10
Glamping in my teardrop trailer, my dogs, quality time with good friends, Maine craft beer, sunrise over Scarborough marsh, music, Budapest, learning new things, my family, and date nights with my husband.
