As 2024 winds down, the Energy Circle team gathered for a memorable retreat at The Ecology School in Saco, Maine. Known for its mission-driven commitment to sustainability, The Ecology School provided the perfect setting for our team to reflect on the wins and challenges of the past year and plan for an exciting year ahead. Over the course of half a week, we immersed ourselves in the vibrant, regenerative environment of River Bend Farm, blending meaningful work sessions with unforgettable moments of connection.
A Mission-Aligned Venue
The Ecology School’s River Bend Farm campus is a shining example of sustainability in action, embodying the “living building challenge” by giving more than it takes from the environment. With buildings that exceed green standards, a working farm, and a commitment to regenerative practices (including an impressive ground mounted solar array), the campus mirrors Energy Circle’s values of innovation and ecological stewardship. This alignment set an inspiring tone for our retreat, reminding us of the larger impact we strive to make through our work with high performance contractors.
Reflecting on 2024
We dedicated time during the retreat to review the achievements and challenges of 2024. From celebrating our team’s successes in helping clients achieve their goals to analyzing areas for growth, these sessions were an opportunity to learn and align on how to tackle 2025. Presentations by team members highlighted key milestones and sparked creative brainstorming sessions that laid the groundwork for new strategies and initiatives.
Building Bonds and Sharing Laughs
Beyond the work sessions, the retreat was filled with a morning run for the early birds, delicious farm-to-table meals prepared on-site, and in the evenings the yurt became our gathering place for what we affectionately called “Yurt Rock”—an impromptu song circle with three guitars, a cajon, and countless cell phones displaying search results pages of lyrics.
No Energy Circle retreat would be complete without some friendly competition, and this year it came in the form of “The Chameleon,” a lively spot-the-mole game of word association. Karaoke night was another highlight, with teammates belting out classics and hidden talents emerging.
Looking Ahead to 2025
The retreat wasn’t all play—it was also a springboard for 2025 planning. Fueled by the creativity and energy of the retreat’s setting, we brainstormed fresh ideas, refined our goals, and set a collaborative vision for the year ahead. The team left the retreat feeling inspired and united, ready to take on new challenges and opportunities.
Watch the Highlights
As we head into 2025, we’re grateful for the opportunity to gather in such a meaningful space and for the connections that continue to fuel our mission. Here’s to another year of growth, collaboration, and making an impact together!
Check out the video below to see the Energy Circle team in action at The Ecology School.