PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Now under the management of the Presque Isle Recreation & Parks Department, Nordic Heritage Outdoor Center has experienced promising growth in terms of community support and utilization of the facility. Significant sponsorships, provided by generous Aroostook County organizations, now provided about 75 percent of the Center’s operating budget, which is not subsidized by the City of Presque Isle.
“We are extremely grateful to our corporate sponsors who recognize the important role that NHOC plays in our community,” said Gene Cronin, director of the recreation & parks department. “That partnership is a key component of our goal of operational sustainability.”
In addition to Libra Foundation, which has long supported NHOC, eight companies have become sponsors since the program was rolled out: Katahdin Trust Company, MMG Insurance, Northern Light Health, KeyBank, Cross Insurance, United Insurance, Pineland Farms Potato Company and Soderberg Construction.
Jon Prescott, president and CEO of Katahdin Trust Company, pointed to the value the four-season outdoor recreation facility brings to the area and the company’s employees as reasons to support it financially.
“We believe that a strong, vibrant community is essential for the success of our business, and supporting organizations like NHOC allows us to give back in a meaningful way,” Prescott said. “Furthermore, encouraging our employees to engage in outdoor activities year-round not only promotes physical health but also enhances mental well-being and fosters a sense of belonging.”
Greg LaFrancois, president of Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center and past president of Northern Light AR Gould, noted that the facility offers something for everyone and helps the hospital bring professionals to the County and keep them here.
“Nordic Heritage Outdoor Center is important to the County for many reasons. Personally, it is a source of fitness in all seasons. There is something for every fitness level and interest, and it’s a great destination for families,” LaFrancois said. “Professionally the center is a highlight for our physician recruitment and retention. The long winter months are much more enjoyable in a pair of snowshoes, skis, or on a fat tire bike. I learned to ski and ride the trails at Nordic Heritage Outdoor Center and am grateful for all who make the Center accessible.”
Cross country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, mountain biking, and disc golf are just some of the ways people can enjoy the great outdoors at NHOC. The lodge, as well as the 40- by 100-foot tent and outdoor deck, provide great spaces for private events like weddings and family reunions or for company meetings.
In fact, sponsorship opportunities, which are available at various levels, include the use of these amenities for corporate outings. Other benefits include wellness events, passes to the NHOC’s trail festival, learn-to-ski programs, signage at NHOC and more.
Libra Foundation, which funded the original development and construction of the facility and continues to provide financial support for operations, is pleased to see the development of a wider base of support for this community asset.
“The Foundation is proud of the progress that the current leadership at the City of Presque Isle’s Recreation & Parks Department has made in operating and maintaining the venue, developing programming and promoting utilization, and securing financial support of NHOC through generous sponsorships from leading organizations in the region,” said Paul Pietropaoli, executive vice president of Libra Foundation.
Cronin noted that he is pleased with the response to the sponsorship program so far — and the strides made with other sources of revenue such as tent rentals and individual memberships — however, he continues to work toward more community support.
“We have a solid start on sponsorships, memberships, and hosting weddings and events to bring in funds, but we have to continue to grow all of these,” he said. “The facility’s operating costs aren’t the only financial consideration. When we get into capital improvements, there will be an increased need of funds.”
As the facility was built in 2000, significant projects like roof replacement or heating system upgrades will likely be needed in the coming years. Cronin said he hopes to reach a point where community support is such that it’s possible to budget for these capital expenses.
In the meantime, Cronin invites residents and visitors to the area to enjoy the facility.
“There are 30 miles of trails and a lot of green space,” he said. “Basically, it’s an 800-acre park to get out and explore in all seasons. And it’s right in the heart of the County. Come out and join us.”
More information about Nordic Heritage Outdoor Center can be found at nordicheritageoc.org. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, reach out to Gene Cronin at gcronin@presqueisleme.us or 207-764-2545.
