It’s been a wonderful summer so far—full of sunshine, laughter, excitement, and unforgettable moments on Hog Island. And the season isn’t over yet! We still have five more camps to go before the fantastic FOHI Work Week, including two brand-new programs: Mindful Birding and Let’s Go Birding Together.
Behind the scenes, Adam has been doing an incredible job managing volunteer requests and ensuring that every team has a meaningful, rewarding experience. We’re deeply grateful to the 123 amazing individuals who have signed up to volunteer this year.
To those who have already joined us—thank you for your time, energy, and dedication. We know it’s not an easy volunteer job, but we certainly hope you left knowing how important you are to the Hog Island Camp.
To those arriving soon—we can’t wait to welcome you to the island! Whether it’s your first or 50th time, each experience is unique and memorable.
And of course, in typical FOHI fashion, we were once again able to present National Audubon with an annual gift of $50,000 to be restricted to the operations and maintenance of our beloved Hog Island camp. We also continue to offer ongoing support through in-kind gifts and improvements—new pillows for the campers, stainless steel tables for the kitchen, and flowers and birdseed, of course!
Wishing you all a wonderful weekend. Please scroll down to check out an extra volunteer day next week on the Hog Island trails and a testimonial from the first recipient of the Juanita Roushdy scholarship!
Reach out anytime,
Deana Cavan
Executive Director
Join us next Thursday, 8/21, from 9am-2pm to help the Maine Island Trail Association with clearing and widening trails on the main portion of the Island, as well as identifying areas for larger trail restoration or infrastructure improvement. We will be able to transport you from the mainland to the camp. You will also need to bring a packed lunch. If you are interested and able, please contact Adam at volunteer@fohi.org.
The Juanita Roushdy Scholarship
The first recipient was Lisa Carney Nanibush from Wasauksing First Nation, Ontario CA who attended Joy of Birding this June.
Lisa currently lives in NH and grew up in MA with her non-indigenous grandparents who told her to forget about her difficult childhood and generations of trauma. Lisa’s story is of strength, resilience, and curiosity, as she has recently reconnected with her indigenous roots on her mother’s side and has begun to understand her true self.
She was extremely grateful for the deep healing she received by spending a week on Hog Island, and especially for the opportunity to see Puffins! She wrote us this thoughtful testimonial about her experience:
“Imagine a place so beautiful, peaceful, and free from the noise of regular life that it completely resets you. That is what Hog Island‘s Joy of Birding camp did for me. The calming ocean waves, melodic birds, and friendly, enthusiastic counselors transported me to a safe, therapeutic, and tranquil environment. I was so grateful for this opportunity to attend through the Indigenous scholarship that I took everything in. I was welcomed and respected right away to this joyful community. The camp had the perfect balance of activities and fun. I experienced early morning birding walks, island hikes, boat rides, and educational talks. I also enjoyed lots of free time to explore the island, catch the stunning sunrise, delighted in family-like meal gatherings alongside my fellow campers with phenomenal food, and utilized the many educational birding resources available to campers. I left this camp feeling more capable than ever to learn about birds, and the environment. I also left with routines that I will incorporate in my everyday life. Most importantly I have new friends that I will forever hold dear to my heart.”
We are still accepting donations for the Juanita Roushdy Scholarship Fund to help provide Indigenous individuals with the opportunity to experience Hog Island and all of its natural beauty.
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Help us keep the island pristine by donating today.
Have a wonderful rest of your summer!