Last week, I had the opportunity to connect with the Reed Scarfone, organizer for the WILD Outside Toronto program, a youth led initiative that aids students in developing a love for the nature that surrounds them, to help inspire them to continue protecting it. In sitting down with Reed, I was able to listen to the goals, and the aspirations that lie behind the person, who has dedicated so much of her life to the natural world.
Reed’s story tells us the tale of someone who found their path- whose work is both impactful and meaningful. The way in which she found herself- the hard work, the perseverance, and the continued pursuit of that which she found interesting- is an inspiration to all those wondering where they want to go in their lives, that there possibly does exist an option for all of us in which we can pursue something we love, and have it have meaning for the world around us, possibly inspiring future generations to follow in our footsteps.
A steward of the environment, Reed has spent the last few years dedicated to the WILD Outside, an absolutely stellar program that connects youth with the environment, be it through shoreline pick-ups, or tree-top trekking, all for free. Youth are given the chance to connect with the world around them, to both help it, and to alleviate the eco-anxiety that we often feel when all we look at are the stories of how it won’t be here for much longer. Reed’s philosophy has always been, that those who love the environment, will be the ones who will protect it. Through engaging youth in the manner that she does, she hopes to raise the next generation of environmental stewards.
The issues of the environment are ever present in the minds of Canadians, with the recent fires in Quebec engulfing the eastern half of the country in smoke and smog. In recent years, Canada has experienced an increase in the frequency and intensity of wildfires, which have had significant impacts on the country’s landscapes, communities, and environment. These fires have been fuelled by a combination of factors, including climate change, forest management practices, and natural weather patterns.The Canadian government has been investing in fire prevention measures, and collaborating with provincial and territorial authorities to mitigate the risks. However, the increasing frequency and severity of these fires highlight the ongoing challenge of adapting to and combating the impacts of climate change on Canada’s forests and communities. Reaching all across the eastern seaboard, the noxious orange air might be a sign of where we are headed, if we don’t take the time to evaluate the effects of our actions and where we are headed.
Reed also spoke very eloquently on the more regional issue of the breakdown of the Peel Region and the investment in development of Caledon into a more industrialized centre, that would destroy much of the well-preserved ecosystems in place. For more on the conversations that we had, we encourage you to listen to the podcast episode here. You’ll also find a more detailed story of who Reed is and some of the work her organization have done here in Canada.
Overall, it was a pleasure to meet her and discuss these issues. Here at YPS, we focus on connecting youth with global issues, but at the end of the day, the next step is always how one can take action, and WILD Outside, allows you to exactly that.
Contact information for Wild Outside
Reach out to Reed:
Canadian Wildlife Federation
Wild Outside
https://cwf-fcf.org/en/explore/wild-outside/
Canadian Conservation Corps (CCC)
https://cwf-fcf.org/en/explore/conservation-corps/
CCC Flex
https://cwf-fcf.org/en/explore/conservation-corps/ccc-flex.html
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