Learn about the Maine Association for New Americans (MANA)'s Outdoor Equity programs, that take groups of immigrant youth, women, and elders on outdoor trips throughout the state. Our programs introduce participants to Maine’s natural beauty, give them a chance to try new outdoor recreation opportunities in a safe and supportive environment, and facilitate connection to nature as a tool for healing immigration trauma. 

Hear how our partnerships with host organizations and funders have made this programming possible, as we lean on conservation and outdoor recreation sites to lend destinations, gear and expertise. Also hear about the challenges of creating equitable partnerships as we face the financial realities of funding staff time and transportation when we are overwhelmed with invitations, while MANA bears most of the cost for trips envisioned by our partners. 

Join us to explore the joys and challenges of partnering!

About the Maine Association for New Americans (MANA)

MANA is an immigrant-led organization that is committed to reducing mental health stigma among immigrant communities and to addressing health disparities through innovation, impactful collaboration and transparency. MANA promotes social & personal empowerment of immigrants and addresses racial equity and health disparities in Maine through:  

• Raising awareness of individual and collective trauma among immigrants;
• Providing trauma-aware and multilingual transportation to zero/low income families to address racial and social inequalities in accessing healthcare, social services and other related services;
• Connecting immigrants with their peers across cultures and to the resources.

Learn more about MANA on their website.