Earth Day is an important annual event that is celebrated globally on April 22nd to raise awareness and encourage action towards environmental protection and conservation. In Portland, Maine, Earth Day is particularly significant as the city is known for its picturesque coastline and natural beauty, which is a crucial part of the local economy and way of life.
Portland’s community of environmentalists and activists work tirelessly to protect and preserve the city’s natural resources year-round. Earth Day provides an opportunity to celebrate and honor these individuals and organizations.
In this month’s Community Corner, find highlighted a variety of fundraising events, volunteer work, and mutual aid dedicated to inspiring and motivating the community to take action in reducing environmental impact and to contributing to a more sustainable future.
Here is our April Community Corner. Ways to give back this month locally including fundraisers, donations, and volunteer work.
We’re always looking for a lead! If you have a fundraiser, volunteer sign-up, or cause you’d like us to know about, email us at [email protected]
The Portland Parks Conservancy is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing and preserving the parks and natural spaces of Portland, Maine.
Their mission is to support and advocate for the city’s parks system, working closely with the Portland Parks & Recreation department to identify and address the most pressing needs in the community. The organization is committed to promoting equity and inclusivity in parks, ensuring that all members of the community have access to safe, well-maintained green spaces.
The Portland Parks Conservancy works to raise funds, build partnerships, and mobilize volunteers to support a wide range of park-related projects, including maintenance and restoration, community engagement initiatives, and the development of new parks and natural areas.
You can learn more about Portland Parks Conservancy including their mission and projects online.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers assist with park projects and light maintenance around the city. Volunteer events happen throughout the summer and fall. Volunteers will complete the following tasks:
Learn to identify invasive plants and remove them from the parks
Clean up trash and debris – gloves and grabbers provided
Garden and plant flowers, herbs, and foliage in the parks
Discover other Portland nonprofits that work with parks and the environment
Explore the many parks of Portland, Maine!
Sign up to volunteer online.
Unable to volunteer? Make a donation to Portland Parks Conservancy.
Friends of Casco Bay is a non-profit organization based in South Portland that works to improve and protect the environmental health of Casco Bay, a unique and ecologically important estuary located in the Gulf of Maine.
Founded in 1989, the organization focuses on monitoring and improving the water quality of the bay, as well as promoting awareness and education about environmental issues affecting the region. Friends of Casco Bay engages in a variety of activities, including conducting scientific research, collaborating with government agencies and other organizations, and advocating for policies that support environmental conservation. Their efforts are aimed at ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of the Casco Bay ecosystem, which is home to a diverse range of marine life and provides significant ecological, economic, and recreational benefits to the local community.
You can make a donation online.
Special Events + Fundraisers
Join Maine Outdoor Film Festival as they host Original Mother, an Earth Day event that celebrates conservation and outdoor films.
The event is organized by the Patagonia clothing company in partnership with The Conservation Alliance and takes place annually around Earth Day. The event features a selection of short films that highlight various environmental and conservation issues, as well as inspiring stories of individuals and organizations making a positive impact on the planet.
The films cover a range of topics, from wildlife conservation and land protection to sustainable farming and renewable energy. The event is designed to raise awareness about environmental issues and to inspire attendees to take action towards protecting the planet. In addition to the film screenings, the event also includes live music, food and drinks, and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations in the environmental community.
Tickets online.
When: Saturday, April 22nd, 2023 from 4 PM – 8:30 PM
Where: Maine Studio Works 170 Anderson Street Portland, ME
Earth Week is an annual event organized by the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine, designed to engage children and families in fun and educational activities that promote environmental awareness and sustainability.
Earth Week includes a variety of hands-on workshops, demonstrations, and performances that explore topics such as recycling, renewable energy, and nature conservation. Children can participate in activities such as crafting with recycled materials, exploring natural habitats, and learning about sustainable living practices. The event also features guest speakers, interactive exhibits, and opportunities to connect with environmental organizations and resources in the local community.
Earth Week is a great opportunity for families to learn about environmental issues and to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.
When: through
Where: The Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine, 250 Thompsons Point Rd, Portland, ME
Celebrate Earth Day with Portland Parks & Recreation department at Payson Park with a free, family-friendly celebration featuring music, local food trucks, and fun for the whole family.
Portland Parks & Recreation Department will be hosting a variety of Earth Day events and activities throughout the month of April designed to engage the community in celebrating and caring for the environment, while also promoting healthy outdoor activities.
During this Earth Day celebration try out e-bikes from Portland’s local bike shops, learn about composting with friends at Garbage to Garden, connect with nature, celebrate with neighbors, and so much more!
When: Saturday, April 22nd, 2023 from 10 AM – 1 PM
Where: Edward Payson Park, Portland, ME