Charlie Harrington is the Director of Maine Sea Coast Mission’s EdGE program. EdGE is the Mission’s after-school and summer program for children in grades four through high school in six communities in Washington County. For over 20 years, Charlie has worked in education and youth development creating adventure-based programs. He was a national trainer for Project Adventure for 20 years and is currently on the board of High Five Adventure Learning Center.
"Charlie's genuine compassion for young people and drive to do whatever it takes to improve the lives of others is truly inspirational for me. Charlie has created a unique culture that lifts the spirit of children and through his leadership and respect for all children has inspired graduates of the EdGE program to want to be like him and come back as instructors in the program or in some way make a significant difference in the lives of kids in Downeast Maine." - Alfred Wakeman, PA-C, Downeast Community Hospital Charlie was hired in 2002 and was instrumental in creating and developing the EdGE (Ed Greaves Education) program which now supports more than 700 Washington and Hancock County children each year. Through EdGE, students challenge themselves, engage with their communities and the outdoors, and explore college and career options. The after-school program also offers academic support, and in-school programs include peer mentoring for students beginning high school. EdGE is designed to help students make informed choices about their futures and develop the resources and skills to be successful—and happy—in life. Charlie has been critical to the success of this program, and throughout his career, in developing and implementing programs like this one to inspire youth to reach their fullest potential.Charlie Harrington will be awarded a 2018 Director's Individual Award for his dedication and success in supporting youth in Downeast Maine on November 15th at the Champions for Children Luncheon.
Don’t forget to join us for the 2018 Champions for Children Luncheon ! And keep an eye out for upcoming profiles featuring the rest of our 2018 Giraffe Award winners.