Manitou is a community of families, schools, life explorers and collaborators (see below) who delight in discovery and shared support of this long-protected wilderness sanctuary.
Active member leadership has shaped Manitou over its 35-year history, initially through visionary founder Pam Mayer.
Current leadership includes:
Fred Taylor—environmental educator, writer and workshop leader; President
Michael Mayer—social entrepreneur, business developer, healthcare management consultant; Vice President
Laurie Griffin—massage therapist, Manitou lead trail-keeper
Caitlin Adair—longtime member & bridge with Living Earth Action Group, its co-founder / facilitator
Our Partners
Local groups with which we appreciate recent or longstanding ties include: Brattleboro Area Hospice—an independent, community-based, nonprofit volunteer hospice organization, with all services free of charge to anyone living in Southeastern Vermont or bordering New Hampshire towns. Referrals to any of our programs can be made by a physician, home health care provider, nursing home, or family members. BAYADA Hospice—addressing the mental, physical, spiritual and emotional needs of a patient and their family at the end of life; providing education services to enhance quality of life and end of life for the community of Higher Ground volunteers, families and supporters.
Hallowell Singers—a local group of singers who offer songs for healing and comfort at the bedsides of the ill or dying; a component of Brattleboro Area Hospice services, organized by Kathy Leo.
Living Earth Action Group—at the forefront of promoting Sustainability and Spirituality ventures locally “neighbors, friends, and guests who explore ways of knowing and acting that will bring us into healthy harmony with ourselves, our fellow human beings, all other living beings, and with planet Earth Herself.” Schools & Universities—throughout the area, including local elementary and middle schools, Antioch University New England and Keene State College in New Hampshire.
Numerous Faith Communities—diverse in practice and tradition, whose members come to the land for Healing Walks, spiritual exploration, and collaboration across faith traditions.