As we step into 2026, the Expeditions program continues to build on its core mission, supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through meaningful, community-based experiences that promote independence, connection, and healthy lifestyles. Each day, participants engage in activities that encourage learning new skills, staying active, building relationships, and exploring their communities in purposeful ways. With services operating year-round in both Westbrook and Kennebunk, Expeditions remains a vibrant space where growth, inclusion, and opportunity come together. Looking ahead to the next few months, we’re excited to roll out a walking challenge, new skill-building courses, and festive celebrations for Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day. Have a great idea for an activity or outing? We’d love to hear it! Send your suggestions to Sarah at shunt@woodfords.org.

The holiday season was a time of reflection, creativity, and connection across Expeditions. Participants took part in seasonal activities that emphasized togetherness, gratitude, and community engagement—whether through themed outings, creative projects, or shared meals. These moments highlighted what makes Expeditions special: the ability to celebrate milestones and traditions while continuing to build daily skills and meaningful relationships. Participants from Expeditions Westbrook & Kennebunk celebrated different cultural holidays and heartfelt community giving by making treats for local veterans and seniors & decorating the Westbrook Food Pantry Christmas Tree at the Tree of Giving event.



As we move forward from the holidays, the energy and momentum from this season continues to shape our programming and goals for the year ahead.

Strong community partnerships remain a cornerstone of the Expeditions program. Through collaborations with local organizations including have ongoing access to inclusive opportunities that support wellness, recreation, and skill development. These partnerships allow Expeditions to extend learning beyond our program locations and deepen participants’ connections within their own communities, reinforcing real-world inclusion and shared experiences.

Partnership Highlight: Kibu

While not a typical community connection, the participants have made meaningful connections with the coaches at Kibu through live & on-demand classes; creating their own virtual community. Kibu offers the groups at Expeditions engaging, person-centered content and a way to connect with different HCBS programs from different parts of their country during live sessions.

Kibu’s large library covers life skills, job skills, fitness, recreation, and more, which can be used to enrich participants’ daily experiences and encourage meaningful engagement. Kibu’s library and easy to use lessons plans assist the DSP’s in running engaging, meaningful, and fun groups that keep skill building interesting to the people who attend. Expeditions is proud to say that we were the first agency to start using Kibu in Maine. 

One exciting area of growth continues to be our Expeditions Skills Group, where participants focus on building practical life skills in a supportive, small-group setting. From communication and daily living skills to teamwork and healthy lifestyles, this group creates structured opportunities for participants to practice skills that support independence and confidence, while still keeping activities engaging, social, and fun. After completing a four week course, participants receive a certificate of completion to honor their dedication to learning.

Behind every successful day at Expeditions is a dedicated team of professionals who bring passion, creativity, and consistency to their work. In the coming sections, we’re excited to introduce you to some of the team members who help make Expeditions what it is—supporting participants, strengthening community partnerships, and ensuring each individual feels encouraged to grow and succeed. Stay tuned as we highlight the people who make a difference every day.

Meet Danielle!

Staff: Danielle Forgues

Location: Expeditions Westbrook (but fills in at Kennebunk frequently)

Favorite Food: Mexican & Chinese

Favorite TV Show: Bing Bang Theory & Criminal Minds

Favorite Movie: Comedies

Favorite Band: Imagine Dragons

Favorite part of being a DSP: Participating in the fun activities with the people we support & experiencing meaningful moments with them.

A Fact That May Surprise Us: Danielle played Rugby for 4 years in college!

In December at the MACSP's Award Luncheon, our very own Taylor Sturgis, DSP in the Expeditions Kennebunk Program received one of the Southern Maine Direct Service Professional of the Year Awards. As demonstrated in her nomination and her work every day, Taylor exemplifies every aspect of the DSP role; dedication, reliability, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to advocating with and on behalf of the people she supports. Taylor's impact extends far beyond meeting the daily requirements of the role and ensuring all individuals needs are met. She ensures that every individual she works with or interacts with feels valued, respected, included, and heard; by taking the time to understand each person's goals, preferences, and challenges, Taylor provides care that is not only person-centered but also truly empowering. Woodfords is so incredibly proud of Taylor's personification of our mission and of her unrelenting commitment to those we serve each and every day. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition and honor Taylor!

Do you know someone seeking initial supports, or an individual looking for a positive change through new experiences, peer relationships, and increased community integration? Expeditions offers engaging, community-based programming designed to support personal growth, connection, and active participation in everyday life.

We welcome referrals and conversations at any stage—whether someone is just beginning to explore services or is looking for a program that offers meaningful, inclusive opportunities.

To learn more or to make a referral, please contact: Sarah Hunt, Program Manager, Expeditions, shunt@woodfords.org

Woodfords Family Services

is committed to the support

and inclusion of people

with special needs and their families in Maine communities.

Woodfords Family Services is accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA), whose program of quality improvement is designed to identify providers that have met high performance standards and have made a commitment to their stakeholders to deliver the very best quality services.