Outdoors
The BDN outdoors section brings readers into the woods, waters and wild places of Maine. It features stories on hunting, fishing, wildlife, conservation and recreation, told by people who live these experiences. This section emphasizes hands-on knowledge, field reports, issues, trends and the traditions that define life outside in Maine. Read more Outdoors stories here.
Recently, I participated in the annual fundraiser for a Maine-based nonprofit called Moose Maine Kids.
MMK was established in 2023 by Ron Greco. A native Mainer, Ron has naturally been drawn to nature and all it has to offer. Like many fathers who live the outdoor lifestyle, he had a desire to mentor kids so they could carry on the traditions of the outdoors, particularly hunting.
Back in 2022, Ron was following a Maine bill regarding the minimum hunting age for children. He noticed there was an exception for dream-adventure moose hunts.
At the time, Maine was providing moose hunts for children with critical illnesses and severe disabilities, but many recipients were traveling from out of state. That prompted Ron to take a closer look at the needs of Maine children. During his research, he learned that roughly 60 children in Maine are diagnosed with pediatric cancer each year and more than 100 are diagnosed annually with critical illnesses.
Part of our makeup as avid hunters, outdoorsmen and fathers is the desire to pass our connection to nature on to the next generation.
That inspired Ron to launch Moose Maine Kids with the goal of providing hunting, fishing and outdoor recreational opportunities for children with critical illnesses and severe disabilities. I often refer to the organization as “Make-A-Wish for the outdoors.”
The state embraced Ron’s vision and now provides moose permits to MMK in support of its mission.
Through the organization, children who might not otherwise have the opportunity to experience the outdoors can enjoy their own dream adventure. Activities have included moose, bear, wild turkey and red deer hunts. Kids have also enjoyed fishing, building duck boxes and participating in other outdoor activities that bring joy to their lives.
MMK also provides whatever equipment a child may need to fulfill that dream, whether it’s a warm coat, boots or specialized equipment. I recall Ron working to raise money for a tracked wheelchair so children with mobility challenges could navigate the outdoors during their hunting experience.
I learned about Ron’s vision through a mutual friend when MMK was first launched. After a heartfelt conversation, it didn’t take long for me to commit WildCheff to supporting this tremendous organization.
For the first fundraiser, Ron and I collaborated on a special multi-course wild game dinner in Kennebunkport. I provided a wild game charcuterie and mini five-course game dinner featuring moose, bear, wild turkey, duck, wild boar, halibut and trout.
For the past two years, Ron has held the annual fundraiser at Camp Laurel in Mount Vernon. The beautiful atmosphere, outstanding facilities and MMK’s mission have brought people out of the woodwork to support these children.
What started as a gathering of about 60 people a few years ago has grown to more than 250 attendees.
My newest offering has been to kick off Ron’s MMK event with a WildCheff “Taste of the Wild.” Envision wooden banquet tables on wheels wrapped in stainless steel counters and loaded with wild game appetizers that I dream up specifically for this event.
This year’s menu featured smoked trout mousse infused with lemon and fresh herbs, wild bear bruschetta topped with fiddlehead pesto and maple horseradish crema, mini wild turkey gyros, Maine moose chorizo stuffed peppers, maple quail bites, quail deviled eggs and grilled wild boar sausage with Maine mustard dipping sauce.
The response was overwhelming. More than 250 attendees left no crumb unturned.
The wild food I provided engaged and inspired people to realize how incredible eating from the outdoors can be. How much more special is it for these children, who deserve to be recognized and given the opportunity to experience the same peace and tranquility that those of us who don’t have to fight these medical battles enjoy every day?
As an avid outdoorsman and wild game ambassador, I am truly humbled, privileged and blessed to have the opportunity to do something meaningful for children who deserve to experience the joy of the outdoors.
There are always ways we can use our talents and abilities to help others understand the outdoors and the benefits it brings to our lives.
Moose Maine Kids is doing just that.
Ron is now expanding MMK’s mission to include foster children and children of Gold Star families.
Every one of us who loves the outdoors and our natural resources can share that passion. Doing so helps ensure that our outdoor heritage is carried forward to future generations.