Meet Amanda: When Purpose Finds You
We are thrilled that Amanda has joined the Beyond Boundaries in Roanoke. She brings a passion for helping people discover that adventure truly is for everyone! With a background as a registered nurse, CrossFit coach, and health educator, she has spent life empowering to build confidence, overcome challenges, and achieve goals they once thought were beyond reach.
What do you go by?
Most people call me Amanda, but there are a few special people who insist my name is “Mom.”
How old are you?
35 years young!
Where do you attend college or school?
I attended Radford University, where I earned my degree in Health Education and Health Promotion, and later attended Jefferson College of Health Sciences for my Bachelors of Nursing.
Where did you grow up?
Roanoke, Virginia is where I spent most of my days.
Favorite outdoor activity?
I love hiking with my family and “hunting” for berries! I also love playing in creeks and rivers.
What is your favorite type of Beyond Boundaries trip?
I’m still new to Beyond Boundaries, so it’s hard to choose a favorite because I’ve loved every adventure so far!
Favorite book?
Oh that’s hard…
It’s difficult to pick just one. My favorites include Harry Potter (which is now a classic), Hunger Games (I love a good trials plot), One Dark Window, The German Midwife, and Fourth Wing. I am currently reading Red Rising and Dungeon Crawler Carl. I am always looking for a good book recommendation!
Favorite food?
Main food- pizza
Veggie- Brussels sprouts
Side- mash potatoes!
How did you get involved with Beyond Boundaries?
Angie Leonard came to speak to a special needs family group I attend and shared that Beyond Boundaries was looking for someone to help grow the Roanoke team. Naturally, I made it my personal mission to recruit the perfect person. I spent the next several hours thinking through everyone I knew… until it finally dawned on me.
“Oh no… it’s me. I’m the person.”
I texted Angie that night, and without missing a beat she replied, “I have a feeling you would be.” I like to think she was patiently waiting for my lightbulb moment.
Why does Beyond Boundaries' mission resonate with you?
I believe the outdoors has a unique way of building confidence and reminding us that we’re capable of more than we think. I love that Beyond Boundaries removes barriers to give voice and choice back to individuals who too often don’t get either. Everyone deserves the chance to choose their own adventure.
Fun fact about yourself?
Let’s play two truths and a lie! Can you guess which is the lie?
1- I was a labor a delivery nurse for 10 years.
2- I am a twin.
3- I placed second in a strongman competition.
Number two is the lie. I am the oldest of 4 girls. My middle sister looks like she could be my twin though, and my youngest sisters are twins!