Teens To Trails and Chewonki are pleased to announce that Gabrielle Chapman and Joshua Kramley, both sophomores at Wiscasset High School, have been chosen to receive Sara's Scholarship Engaging Teens in the Outdoors, given in memory of Sara Leone who was lost to the Wiscasset community 10 years ago.

“Both teenagers recognize the important role that nature plays in a young person’s life,” said Carol Leone, Sara’s mother and a founder of Teens To Trails.

Both recipients said they are excited about this chance to spend three amazing weeks in the wilderness with Chewonki’s Wilderness Trips for Teens, where they will learn about the natural world as they learn more about themselves.

“Being in nature helps us put matters in perspective and ultimately opens our minds to trying new things,” Chapman said.

“Getting outdoors and getting active will improve your mood and make you more happy,” Kramley said.

It is hoped that this scholarship will spark student interest in the outdoors, provide student leadership for high school Outing Clubs, and encourage the growth of Outing Clubs across Maine — all goals of the Teens To Trails organization.

“We know these outdoor experiences can change a life, and we are happy to give Gabby and Josh this opportunity,” Leone said.

This full wilderness trip scholarship is made possible by the heartfelt donations of Sara's many friends and family, and a committed partnership between Teens To Trails and Chewonki.

"We see great value in getting unplugged from today's pace of life and becoming connected to the natural world. I am so pleased that we are able to offer two scholarships again this year," said Emma Carlson, manager of Chewonki’s Summer Wilderness Trips. "Chewonki is honored to be able to partner with Teens To Trails on such a meaningful project that gets kids outdoors."

Donations to keep Sara's Scholarship going can be mailed to Teens To Trails at 98 Maine Street, Brunswick, ME 04011, or made online at the T3 website.