Corporate Team Building Island Retreat – Youth Camp Kayaking Adventure Maine

About Us

Rippleffect is a youth and community development organization operating outdoor adventure programming on beautiful Cow Island in Casco Bay. We offer

• team-building activities
• kayak adventures
• leadership development
• environmental curriculum to both youth and adults.

Rippleffect was born in late May of 1999 when a team of six set out from Lubec, Maine, on a kayak journey to memorialize the lives of several people who had died of AIDS. They were all personal friends of founder Ted Regan, who organized the expedition as both an homage to his friends and mentors, and as a way to educate youth about the disease. The team's message was clear: "Make a choice between acceptable vs. unacceptable risk in your daily lives".

View Video Clip Here!

The journey ended on December 31, 1999 when Regan and Aaron Frederick, the two remaining paddlers from the original group, pulled into Key West, Florida. They journeyed 2,700 miles and reached out to 2,300 youth in ports along the Eastern seaboard of the US.

Inspired by the relationships formed with youth on the journey, Rippleffect returned to Maine and revised its mission. Rippleffect became a community-based youth development organization specializing in adventure and wilderness experiences that build confidence and self-esteem. Rippleffect now owns and manages 26 acre Cow Island in Casco Bay. Their unique programming complements the efforts of area social services dealing with youth in crisis. Area teens from all walks now have the opportunity to enjoy the Maine Coast experience. Additionally, Rippleffect now provides adventure programming with adult groups through our Fort Lyons programs.

Looking for Outdoor Work? Click here for job opportunities.

Rippleffect employs 40 seasonal staff each year. Our organization has grown with leaps and bounds in the years since our inception, and we pride ourselves on the caliber and quality of the many individuals who have contributed to our efforts in the field and in the office. Check out our Youth Adventures, Fort Lyon Adult Programs page, and our Special Events page to find out how you can get involved.

Our office is located at 217 Commercial Street, Suite 204, in Portland's Old Port. Take I-95 to I-295 exit 7, which becomes Franklin Street. From the first traffic light, go straight on Franklin Street 1 mi. until you reach Commercial Street. Turn right onto Commercial Street until you reach building 217, on the right hand side, next to Asia West. We are located on the second floor.