For Open Mountain Month, a new short film highlights an exemplary SAR organization that goes beyond saving lives in the backcountry.
The Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) is a search and rescue (SAR) organization that not only saves lives but also works to increase public knowledge of lifesaving first aid. This short film follows the story of two volunteer members of the NPA, highlighting how shared experiences will enhance appreciation for the outdoors and foster a profound sense of connection and community.
Karina Eliassen and Amanda Isaksen met during an NPA training course and became fast friends (and eventually neighbours). As members of the NPA, Eliassen and Isaksen have worked together day and night on SAR operations, often in extreme conditions in the remote Norwegian mountains. These raw experiences in the outdoors have brought them closer, both as pros and as friends. “Facing challenges makes a friendship even stronger,” says Isaksen. “Whatever it is, we are there for each other.”
And when they’re off-duty, they relish their common mountain time. “I know her weak spots, and she knows mine,” adds Isaksen. “She will be there backing me up and I would do the same for her.” By sharing the experience and gently motivating each other to push their limits, the sense of satisfaction in summiting is even more keen.
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Helly Hansen will once again celebrate Open Mountain Month in June, motivating and enabling people to get outdoors—this time encouraging them to do so alongside their family, friends and communities.
“Through our work with mountain professionals, we’ve seen firsthand how shared experiences in nature can strengthen social and emotional bonds, making time spent outdoors even more fulfilling,” said Joumana Løvstad, Chief Marketing Officer at Helly Hansen. Mountain Lifers understand how true this is.
Open Mountain Month is about elevating the experience, learning tips and tricks to help you along on your next rad adventure. As the saying goes: “Hike more, worry less.”
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