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, 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." and speak to them about acceptable vs. unacceptable risk in their daily lives.

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; having journeyed 2700 miles and having reached out to 2300 youth in ports along the Eastern USA seaboard.

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 manages two facilities on 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.