LEWISTON – Join hundreds of Maine kayakers and canoeists of all skill levels and register to Paddle for Pine Tree Camp on Saturday, June 4, and Sunday, June 5.

Paddlers will take to waterways throughout Maine in support of Pine Tree Camp, an extraordinary summer camp for Maine children and adults with disabilities.

The 2005 Paddle for Pine Tree Camp will expand in size and scope with more statewide locations featuring a post-event celebratory barbecue for all registered participants, a fabulous prize structure, an opportunity to create Paddle Partner teams and paddling workshops.

This year’s Paddle for Pine Tree Camp sites include:

• Androscoggin River with Sun Valley Sports and Maine Handicapped Skiing

• Sea Kayaking in Brunswick with Seaspray Kayaking (Sunday, June 5)

• Kennebec River with Maine Guide Darrell Buzzell

• Saco River with SacoBound

• Swan Lake State Park in Belfast

Over the years the Paddle for Pine Tree Camp has involved hundreds of participants, volunteers and other contributors, raising more than $78,000 since it began in 1997.

Kayakers and canoeists raise money for Pine Tree campers by collecting pledges per mile or accepting straight contributions.

Sponsors and other corporate contributors donate dollars, products and services to show their support for this statewide event.

Pine Tree Camp, a program of Pine Tree Society, was established in 1945 as a summer therapy outlet for children with disabilities.

Over the years, it has evolved into an innovative barrier-free environment offering fully accessible recreation to Maine people with disabilities.

In its 58 years, Pine Tree Camp has welcomed anyone who could benefit from the experience, regardless of their ability to pay tuition.

Fund-raising events such as the Paddle for Pine Tree Camp are held throughout the year to raise tuition assistance funds for campers and their families, thus keeping the camp’s “open door policy” firmly in place.

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