Sideline Stories: Julie Mulkern, Executive Director, WinterKids

I am a public health advocate at heart. I have spent my career working for the health and well-being of Maine kids and families – most recently at WinterKids. We need to help kids to move more, connect with nature, and play outdoors — their physical, mental, and spiritual health depends on it.

Kids want to be outside and active in the winter; it is our job to nurture their inherent love for adventure and exploration. I have two boys (ages seven and four) who are endlessly active and curious. My husband and I encourage them to try new outdoor sports and activities, while helping to instill a love for the amazing natural resources of our home state.

Growing up in northern Maine, it was the norm to throw on your winter gear and toboggan down a treacherous hill, or play King (Queen) of the Mountain on the biggest snowbank in your yard. The more snow the better. Cold temperatures did not matter. There is something truly healing about breathing in the cold air, and setting off on your next adventure. WinterKids feeds that nostalgia.

Whether we are helping kids to gain new skills through learning new winter sports, or offering fun, outdoor education programs in schools, I am proud that WinterKids reaches the most rural corners of Maine and kids who need us most. In a state with unique people and unique challenges, I love that we offer something for everyone to experience the joy and health benefits of being a “winter kid” – at school, at home, and in the communities where they live and play.

Outdoor kids are active kids. Active kids are healthy kids. Healthy kids are happy kids. They are the future. I truly love this work!