Jennifer Kane, Founder and CEO of Empower Philanthropy, has been a strategic partner of Cobscook Institute for the past four years. Her practice at Empower Philanthropy emphasizes connecting donors to leading social entrepreneurs working on the causes they care about, and vice versa. “It is my great privilege to be able to introduce Cobscook Institute leaders to more allies and donors on the west coast,” Jennifer said.

For example, Jennifer organized a house party in 2016 to introduce members of the TREE team to California philanthropists and others interested in learning about the important ideas and practices in transforming rural education. “My job is basically to be a bridge,” she reflected, saying that the formation of an East Coast-West Coast collaborative centered upon rural education has been especially gratifying: “We’ve been able to demonstrate to people who are considered experts in the field of child development and environmental education that wonderful, creative, innovative things are happening in a remote area at the easternmost point of the USA.”

While Cobscook Institute has undergone many big changes in the past year, Jennifer continues to be committed. “I am so endlessly impressed with the educators at Cobscook Institute. They have demonstrated a deep commitment and understanding of the community they’re serving and bring all their hearts and heads to the work of helping rural communities feel heard, empowered, and strengthened. The physical campus itself is clearly a place that honors learning and nature, and creates stunning spaces for people to grow, reflect, connect and become their best selves.”

Funders all over the country are recognizing and respecting what is happening here in Maine. Jennifer added, “Cobscook Institute should feel proud and empowered by what it has accomplished. In every small corner of the most remote places, human beings can do amazing community-building. I am so grateful to be able to play a small role in inviting new friends to discover the magic that is happening at Cobscook Institute.”