Tom Levee On His Way! Hiking the Continental Divide for Scholarships and 529 College Accounts

Known by his trail name "Rabbit," Tom began his journey on March 30, at the southern border. Now over halfway through the high desert of New Mexico, Tom is passing through the West Malpais Wilderness near Grants, New Mexico at an astonishing average distance of over 20 miles each day!

 

But it hasn’t been easy. There have been many travel days without the possibility of diverting from the trail for additional high-calorie food, water or a warm bed and shower. 

Tom Levee at the Gila Cliff Dwellings, where "rabbits" can't find entry.

“This is a TOUGH hike,” explains Tom during a well-deserved break. “We hiked 130 miles and over 13,000 feet of elevation during the last five nights. I’m loving the trail, but missing the side trips during my last hike of the Pacific Crest Trail where I was able to enjoy massive caloric intakes. 😂”

Regardless of difficulty and blisters, Tom pushes on, sharing his experiences with the entire Value Schools community. 

 

Tom's hike and fundraising efforts support our scholarship opportunities for Value Schools' graduating seniors and 529 college investment accounts for kindergarteners.

 

 

 

 

“These are photos of the Gila,” Tom tells us. The Gila River provided great challenges. “We decided to stay safe as the river was too high and fast to follow its exact path. We saw some great sights, and found an elk antler that's valued at $20 per pound.”