Participant Spotlight: Meet Sadie, An Outsider and Trailblazer on All Fronts

Participant Spotlight: Meet Sadie

An Outsider and Trailblazer on All Fronts

Introduction:

Meet Sadie Levy, a senior at Hall High School in West Hartford, whose journey with Outside Perspectives has been nothing short of inspiring. Sadie is involved with The Bridge Family Center in West Hartford, and this was the first year of an Outside Perspectives Bridge partnership. Sadie speaks to her “why” behind being a part of the Teen Center. “I am a part of the West Hartford Teen Leadership Committee because I like working with people my age and organizing events that will make a difference in my community.” 



From her inaugural expedition to becoming a certified Wilderness First Aid provider and leading the charge in fundraising, Sadie embodies the spirit of exploration, leadership, and community engagement.


Embarking on the Expedition:


Sadie's first foray into the world of outdoor adventures came through Outside Perspectives' expedition facilitated in partnership with The Bridge Family Center in West Hartford. Venturing into the wilderness with her peers, Sadie discovered the transformative power of nature, forming lasting connections and gaining a newfound appreciation for the great outdoors. Her expedition included several changes in itinerary, and although challenging, Sadie found this added to the adventure rather than taking away from it. She learned that adapting in the face of change benefits herself and the group as a whole.


“I would encourage anyone to join an Outside Perspectives expedition because even if you feel like it is outside your comfort zone, it is always good to explore new things. At the end of the day, the trips are short, and if it is not for you, you still learn more about yourself.”




A Commitment to Learning:


Soon after returning from her first expedition and eager to expand her knowledge and skills, Sadie enrolled in Outside Perspectives' Wilderness First Aid Certification course. As an emergency medical technician (EMT), she saw this as an opportunity to enhance her understanding of backcountry medicine—an essential skill set for any outdoor enthusiast. She completed the course alongside another alumni participant from a different organization, and they both passed with flying colors!


 


A Mother-Daughter Backpacking Adventure:


The adventure didn't stop there. Sadie, driven by a sense of camaraderie and adventure, embarked on a personal backpacking trip with her mom. Sadie shared, “We listened to music, talked, and most importantly, laughed. Our trip was quite eventful, from trying to get the bear bag on a tree and missing many times to an exploding stove. Nevertheless, I would undoubtedly do it again!” Braving the elements and sharing laughter amidst unexpected challenges, this trip solidified Sadie's love for outdoor exploration and connection.


Leadership in Action:


Not content with keeping her newfound passion to herself, Sadie is leading the charge at The Bridge to raise funds for her peers to experience the same transformative expeditions she enjoyed. Her commitment to creating opportunities for others reflects her belief in the power of outdoor experiences to foster growth, resilience, and community bonds.


Looking to the Future:


As Sadie heads into her senior year, she envisions a future that combines her love for the outdoors with her aspiration to become a firefighter paramedic. Her art business, which she skillfully manages alongside her academic and extracurricular commitments, is a testament to her multifaceted interests.



Conclusion:


In Sadie Levy, we find a trailblazer who embraces the challenges of the outdoors and seeks to share the transformative experience with her community. From her first expedition to her role in fundraising, Sadie exemplifies the spirit of leadership and a deep appreciation for the positive impact that outdoor adventures can have on individuals and communities alike.


Stay tuned as Sadie paves the way for a new generation of outdoor enthusiasts at The Bridge, proving that the journey is not just about the destination but the connections we make along the way.
Location: 37 Greenwoods Rd, New Hartford, CT 06057, USA

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