A challenge to break barriers

WilmotLarge-webWilmot holds annual event to strengthen community bonds

By Jason Arndt
Staff Writer

When a child feels isolated and alone, the hardest part for the child and a community is to break barriers to assistance, according Kim Christiansen of Wilmot Union High School.

Christiansen, along with school administrators, have encouraged the community to come forward in its annual Challenge Day, scheduled Nov. 1 through 3 this year.

“Challenge Day is a way to bring all students together and to break down the walls that separate our kids and society every day,” said Christiansen, who is the coordinator of the event. “We get the chance to see each other for who we really are and create an air of acceptance.”

According to a letter addressed to the community, Challenge Day started in California and has expanded worldwide to foster a positive change within schools and communities.

The letter notes children affected by bullying and violence often have a fear of socializing with classmates, and difficulty staying productive in the classroom.

“Many students are afraid to walk down the hall for fear of being teased or humiliated,” the letter states. “Others feel so alone and frightened that they cannot even pay attention in their classes.”

Challenge Day, the letter states, has received participation from more than 850 students and 200 community adults.

Christiansen, who learned of the event at Delavan-Darien High School more than five years ago, reported good reviews from members of the Wilmot community since its inception.

“The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and many have called it a life-changing event,” she said.

The life-changing event focuses on a variety of areas, including isolation, loneliness, fear and separation, which can lead to destructive behaviors.

Examples of destructive behaviors include drug and alcohol abuse, intolerance and harassment and vandalism, the letter states.

But, Challenge Day aims to curb these behaviors through acceptance, and positive reinforcement.

“It allows everyone a safe place to be themselves and develop relationships that may otherwise never happen,” Christiansen stated. “From this day, a movement to ‘Be the Change’ leaves students with a feeling of empowerment and commitment to make a difference in the halls.”

The initiative, however, is in need of community contributions to reach its mission of helping 450 people through the three-day event.

Contributions range from a business appointing a representative to attend the event, sponsor a student for $40, or donations of $100, $250 or $1,000, or in supplies.

Supply needs include grocery items, bottled water and lodging and travel expenses for Challenge Day staff.

Through helping 450 people, the research indicates that a school atmosphere can change, therefore helping 1,200 total students.

To obtain sponsorship, parent permission slips, and other sign up sheets, email Christiansen at [email protected]

For additional information on Challenge Day, visit challengeday.org.


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