LL Bean announces charitable giving for 2017

Retailer L.L. Bean is giving $2 million to charity with a renewed focus on groups that help get kids outdoors.

The company says its Board of Directors last month approved gifts ranging from $5,000 to $412,000 to a variety of organizations engaged in conservation, outdoor recreation, health and human services, education and the arts.

Chairman Shawn Gorman says the Freeport-based company's goal is to support organizations that strengthen communities and protect the outdoors.

Recipients of 2017 grants geared toward helping get kids outdoors include Appalachian Mountain Club, American Hiking Society, Maine Audubon, Teens to Trails, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts and the Student Conservation Association.

The largest contribution, nearly $600,000, went to the United Way. The company also provided $100,000 to recovery efforts following hurricanes Harvey and Irma.