Nature Links for Lifelong Learning
Nature Links offers nature-based continuing education for adults with disabilities across the country. We teach a broad-ranging curriculum, including cooking, gardening, and independent living skills, as well as environmental studies and expressive arts. We provide participants with opportunities to participate actively in their learning, build friendships, cultivate a sense of place, and empower a sense of civic responsibility.
Our Services
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Online Nature-Based Edcuation
Nature Links offers three, 2-hour classes per week offered online. We learn about sustainable food, animal conservation, climate change, music, art, cooking, and more. Our courses allow adults with disabilities to continue their education and skill development from the comfort of their homes.
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Social Connection
Nature Links provides an opportunity for participants to build friendships and peer relationships which is vital for their emotional well-being. Our safe and supportive community provides an opportunity for adults with disabilities to form meaningful friendships and social bonds with others who care deeply about the environment.
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Community Engagement
Nature Links classes often include visits from guest speakers from around the world, including biologists, poets, business owners, conservationists, musicians, artists, chefs and more. The connections formed with community members in our guest-led classes help to improve our students’ sense of purpose, self-worth and inclusion in their communities.
Our Team
Rene Neuner,
Executive Director
Rene Neuner serves as the Executive Director and Lead Teacher for Nature Links. She holds a BA in Human Rights from the University of Chicago and a Master of Education from the University of Massachusetts Boston. Rene taught English and ESL in Boston Public Schools for nearly 10 years where she developed an outdoor education program for immigrant high school students. Throughout her teaching career, she has focused on developing interdisciplinary projects that encouraged students to explore their local communities and form connections to nature. Rene lives with her family in Brooklin, Maine.
Other Contributing Teachers
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Peter Court
Peter Court is a puppet artist and educator based in Durban, South Africa. Peter is the Director of Creative Madness, an award-winning company with international experience in theatre and education. Peter joined us for a series on puppet making and performance.
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Ann Boudreaux
Ann is a musician and educator based in Blue Hill, Maine. Ann has taught music appreciation classes for Nature Links, helping us learn about and gain an appreciation for many different types of music around the world.
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Hilary Tobin
Hilary is an artist and teacher from Brooklin, Maine. Hilary runs Island Meadow Arts, an art education organization. Hilary teaches art classes for Nature Links, focusing on photography, watercolor painting and crafts.