top of page

​The Willow Tree
Community Organization

Rooted in Community. Growing with Purpose.​

 

Empowering individuals with disabilities through

nature-based enrichment, meaningful work,

and authentic connection. 

Logo for The Willow Tree Community Organization, a nonprofit supporting inclusive nature-based programs
Smiling young boy with a caterpillar during a nature-based enrichment activity

Be part of the joy, connection, and growth we're nurturing every day.

Our Vision

A Future Rooted in Belonging

We envision a world where individuals with disabilities are blessed with—and empowered to pursue—lifelong personal growth, independence, and inclusion within their communities.

​

Through the power of nature-based enrichment, meaningful work, and authentic connection, we work to create opportunities that foster belonging and purpose.

​

Guided by the tenets of GRACE, we strive to build a community where everyone can thrive:

  • Growth

  • Relationships

  • Access

  • Community Connections

  • Empowerment

 

We support and partner with nature-based enrichment programs—both existing and emerging—to expand meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities to grow, connect, and access experiences that enrich not only their own lives, but the lives of all who share in community with them.

Boy with therapeutic needs sitting on a log, engaging with a peer during an inclusive enrichment program

Help create more moments of wonder,
connection, and belonging.

Our Mission 

Who We Are

At The Willow Tree Community Organization, we are on a mission to support and empower individuals with disabilities while building their connections to community and the natural world.

 

By partnering with nature-based enrichment programs our goal is to support access and opportunities in nature through play, work, and employment for children and adults with disabilities.

​

Join us in empowering these individuals as they gain greater access to enrichment programs that help them to achieve lifelong personal growth, greater independence, and build connection within their communities.

Blooming wildflower field at an inclusive outdoor learning program in Maine

Rooted in purpose, guided by grace—help us grow something beautiful.

Our Impactful Programs

Creating Change

The Willow Tree Community Organization currently partners with the Chickens, Bees, & Apple Trees Nature Connection Enrichment programs at Willow Tree OT to empower and enrich the lives of individuals with disabilities. Each initiative is crafted to promote independence, growth, and joy through engaging nature-based activities.

Logo for Willow Tree Occupational Therapy, offering nature-based services for children with developmental needs

The Enrichment Programs at Willow Tree OT

Logo for Chickens, Bees, and Apple Trees, a nature connection program supported by The Willow Tree Community Organization

WTOT Chickens, Bees, & Apple Trees-
Nature Enrichment Program

Building Skills through Nature

and Community Connections

Experience nature through play and practical experiences. This program is open to all children in the community while also incorporating a therapeutic component for children with additional therapeutic needs who may or may not require 1:1 support from therapists or other trained support staff.

By building their nature connections, children work on skills that benefit the mind and body, including gross and fine motor skills, social and emotional skills, life skills, executive function skills, cooperation and teamwork, and neighborhood connections- all while producing confidence, compassion, and community. 

WTOT Chickens, Bees, & Apple Trees-
Nurture & Thrive Program
IN DEVELOPMENT

Building Nature Connections through a

 Nurturing and Supported Approach

This program builds upon the premise of the original CBAT program while providing a greater level of multi-discipline therapeutic intervention. Our goal of the Nurture and Thrive program is to provide a child led approach, filled with sensory rich opportunities and purposeful activities, within the natural environment, allowing for each child to thrive as an individual. 

Therapists are able to work on skills within a natural context, increasing relevance and engagement for the child, while creating a successful and positive group experience. 

WTOT Fruitful Gardens Program-
Cultivating Kindness & Community
IN DEVELOPMENT

Growing Together through Purpose and Connection

​

An integrated therapeutic gardening program dedicated to enhancing the well-being of individuals with disabilities through purpose and connection. Designed to bring joy and connectivity, foster a sense of belonging through interactions with the natural world, and develop lifelong skills. Participants will engage in hands-on gardening activities from seed to harvest with a goal of creating opportunities for personal growth, purposeful work, and community engagement. 

WTOT Community Connection Events
COMING SOON

Building Meaningful and Purpose Filled

 Community Connections 

Join us for future events that promote 

compassion, connection, and community

From farmers markets to farmstands, to garden tours and nature walks, events will create opportunities for individuals within our programs to engage with the community, build skills, develop relationships, and experience the joy of connection.

Partner With Us
Growing a network of nature-based programs that uplift individuals and strengthen communities.
bottom of page