For 32 years, Trekkers has committed to building meaningful and lasting connections between youth and adult mentors through consistent touch points and outdoor-based adventures. Its impact shows up in the lives of students and in the numbers, demonstrating the need for programming that affects rural youth in positive ways.

Following the announcement for the Aspirations Incubator Request for Proposals in December 2025, the Rural Youth Institute has awarded the Cobscook Institute with grant funding to propel their programming and growth in 2026, in addition to three other Maine-based organizations.

In this article, the Rural Youth Institute celebrates the leadership of women across the Aspirations Incubator Network, whose vision, commitment, and collaboration are strengthening opportunities for rural youth and shaping the future of youth development.

Grounded in pillars that emphasize enrichment, community, relationships, new skills, and endless possibilities, Dreamcatchers provides opportunities for rural youth to explore the world around them and become engaged in civic projects.

Following the announcement for the Aspirations Incubator Request for Proposals in December 2025, the Rural Youth Institute has awarded three organizations with grant funding to propel their programming and growth in 2026.

Uplifting rural youth takes more than a single spark. Programming, mentorship, and inspiration are all made possible by community collaboration and group action — a partnership like the one formed by the Rural Youth Institute and AmeriCorps is proof that working together can help bring impact to a new level.