FRIENDS OF TEIA

The FRIENDS of TEIA, is a 501 (c)(3) tax exempt charitable organization that was founded in 2002 when we recognized the need to have more year-round island children involved in TEIA’s summer programs. It is dedicated to offering “camperships” to these island children so that may have the opportunity to participate in TEIA’s  summer educational programs of sailing, tennis, kids camp and preteen programs.  We are a community based organization.  Through the generosity of Peaks Islanders, TEIA members and island and mainland businesses, the FRIENDS have provided annual “camperships” to scores of island children who enjoy new skills and making new friends.

In the summer of 2012 FRIENDS OF TEIA gave out 69 “camperships” to island children who enrolled in 106 club programs.  This means that FRIENDS OF TEIA contributed to the club nearly $17,000.00 in fees and memberships for the children’s activities..  To accomplish this we depend on your contributions to our annual fall appeal letter and donations given at the Color of Peaks Art Show in July.   We are forever thankful to all that gave in 2012 and in past years so that we may sustain our mission.

We provide, through donations, the wine, food and music for the “Color of Peaks Art Show” on preview night.  We depend on everyone bringing an appetizer for the food table to make this island event as successful as it is each year.

If you have a talent, hobby or field of interest and you would like to share with others in the community please let us know and we will make it happen at TEIA.  Tom Bergh owner of Maine Island Kayak gave two programs in the summer of 2012 on Kayaking Safety and will be repeating the evening again this summer.  Your help with volunteering your time and talent would be greatly appreciated.

Please look for updates to programs and information on the FRIENDS of TEIA on the TEIA website, the email newsletter, the STAR, the Island Times, or in the kiosk downfront.

To join the list growing contributors sends your tax deductible donation to FRIENDS OF TEIA P.O.  Box 87, Peaks Island, ME  04108 or contact Stephanie Castle, Chair. At sealights99@aol.com or call 207-766-2254.  We depend on your gifts, as we could not provide TEIA’s summer opportunities to the island children without YOU.  We thank you all.

Stephanie Castle, Chairperson,  Mike Richards, Vice Chair,  Kathy Hurley, Treasurer, Perry Sutherland, Secretary, Melissa Conrad, Vanessa Sylvester, Barb Hoppin, Jane Hannigan, Monica Stevenson and Paul Bridges.