Jul 31
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| Everyone can be a part of the Be the Change Movement!
People all over our globe are submitting their Acts of Change – |
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| Notice: What needs to change in my community?
Choose: What can I do to better the situation? Act: What will I commit to doing? |
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July 3rd, 2010 at 6:39 pm
I have not participated in this program, but I was watching T.V. the other day and it made me wanna cry, because this is so much of what I wanted to see in my high school. Now I see people making a difference and it makes me so excited inside. I personally went through so much stuff as a teen, and nothing like drugs or anything crazy or drastic reflecting on the outside, but I went through things on the inside and it was horrible. Luckly God has placed people in my life that helped me with those things and now I’m on a ministry team in Decatur, AL called Masters Commission and I have this opportunity to do this and help people and travel and its amazing. Thank you whoever started this program….. It makes me wanna do more, I love this stuff.
June 11th, 2010 at 11:46 am
Ray-Ray and Jennifer were my leaders for Challenge Day. They had me rap on the mic in front of everyone it was amazing. I wanted to let u guys know that im still working on my music and i wrote a song for Challenge Day called “Let Your Beat Play” here is the link (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-Jim4sdNEo) Challenge Day inspired me to write this so tell me what u think.
June 9th, 2010 at 1:09 pm
I am donating a kidney anonymously after my husbands uncle passed away while waiting. The more research I did, the more I realized that this is something that I absolutely can do without fear, full of love. I am going to be the change! I’ll have my surgery date this week. Can’t wait!
June 7th, 2010 at 10:51 am
I have a challenge for all blogger:
For a week i challenge you to give a lest 5 person you see alone a smile, and at lest 10 hugs a day.
Go out and be the change!! i love you all!!!
June 7th, 2010 at 10:47 am
I was with my mom and great-grandma in an Albertsons parking lot. All the handy cap spots were taken and my grandma couldn’t walk far and needed a close spot. Well, getting at close spot in the city is near impossible. When a little old lady started to put her bags in her car. She was in a handy-cap spot so my mom said to just get out and take her cart for her. I was more then happy to but she started have problems buckling up So a asked if she needed a hand. I never met this lady before, but the look on her face at my offer was reward enough. Her eyes lite up as she thanked me, and took my offer. After buckling her into her car she thanked me again. Smiling she drove off, and i smiling went to wave my family in, but they had already found a spot close to the doors. I laughed and ran over to them. My mom asked me why I’d nearly climbed into a strangers car, and i simply replied “I was being the change, and helping that lady buckle up.” My mom looked at me and said “Your one of a kind you know that?” Just that small act made me feel pride for myself, and let me tell you the feelings addicting. With every chance i get I’m doing something for someone else, weather it’s physically working or sitting and listening letting a friend talk, even if i have to get pulled out of class for them.
June 5th, 2010 at 9:50 pm
I was picked as one of the people that are going to be on the show for MTV, and honestly, Challenge Day was the biggest kind of step I’ve ever taken in my life. I had no idea it was going to be this inspirational and life-changing. There are no right words to describe my situation, but after that day, the way I looked at everyone and everything has changed. So thank you, Challenge Day and everyone involved <3
June 2nd, 2010 at 2:18 pm
I saw the documentary about challenge in Amsterdam. it touched me in many ways, i was happy, sad and impressed. I’m also willing, als Lilianne wrote before me on this blog, to work with the concept in my own country. Right now i’m searching for people here in Holland, to form a group to get this done. Meanwhile, in my own private and proffesional life, i spread love, care en honesty, i when i don’t, i work with myself to clear my mind and get back on track.
thank you for doing this, love, Marije
May 29th, 2010 at 8:06 am
I just learned about challenge day from a television broadcast about challenge day in Amsterdam. I am really amazed and touched by the courage of all participants to open up and see one another. I hope to work with the concept in the future in my own surroundings on Iceland as a teacher. Thank you for your love and inspiration. You make a huge difference!!!
with love Lilianne
May 27th, 2010 at 1:20 am
I dont know how many times i crossed that line on my high school gym floor..it was almost every time… how many times i opened up..How many hugs ive given to people id never think i’d come close too. I spilled my guts. Im so glad i did.. Im so Glad i experienced everything within those two days that it was… its been like two years since then but im so happy i got the chance to experience it. it has changed everything.
May 26th, 2010 at 3:40 pm
Working on an amazing mobile app for Challenge Day!
May 6th, 2010 at 9:03 pm
After having our Challenge Day in Feb. the Core Team at OHS went to a local elementary school and did a mini-Challenge Day for the 5th graders, who had been having a problem with teasing & bullying. The day was incredible for all involved. The 5th graders got a life-changing experience, and the Core Team members both recconected as a group, and has an unexpectedly impactful day as well. It was so epic.
May 2nd, 2010 at 3:29 pm
Join me in my effort to mobilized NYC to run to help the Women in the Congo. Visit runforcongowomen.org to learn more or email me to help with the NY effort!
May 1st, 2010 at 11:17 pm
omg!i got an email frm mr.loren saying theres gonna be another challenge day on may 15 i cnt wait im so excited for that.I missed all the good timmes in challenge day i hope this challenge day is awsome!remember evry1 be the change.
love always,lizzie
April 24th, 2010 at 2:40 pm
i should have commented on this a very long time ago since ive been to 2 challenge days. i thought i wouldnt be as moved the second time as i was the first but low and behold i was. this day takes a HUGE load off my shoulders. each time i felt a whole lot more confortable going to school and facing people i had had troubles with. Darlene and Linette i love you guys for working so hard for bringing this program in. never hessitated to ask me to help bring it back over and over again!!!
April 22nd, 2010 at 10:49 am
I live in a suburb an hour off of New York City. Here the community is not so diverse. Many people come to live in Monroe and find themselves isolated and feeling disconnected. I often think about the girls in my community ages 10 - 17 who may be going through identiy issues. Questioning their purpose and self worth. My goal is to provide a club for girls where they will be able to learn about themselves by serving others. I believe that true happiness happens when one serves others.
April 13th, 2010 at 12:47 pm
Well yesterday we had our challengge day and it was amzing to see everyone open and to show who they really are in the inside. Their were tears,laughs, and just a whole lot of un and dancing but, one thing I did learn is it’s ok to zjust b Kiona and I can make a change and b the change. so I just hope that everyone really took this in and didn’t just do it yesterdsy but use it in theor every day lives.I truely do believe we are some powerful young people who can really make a change. So I really have challenge day will happen again next year.
April 8th, 2010 at 10:21 am
April 8th, 2010 at 10:17 am
challenge day has changed my life in so many ways it was fun and emotional i felt so comfertable in my small family groups and i felt like i could tell anybody what i felt like i could talk about anything i gave them what i thought about myself and my family that was the best day of my life thanks to mzima and randy p.s that sideways moon walk was awsome pss you rock mzima i want you to come back becuse you rock
April 8th, 2010 at 10:16 am
challenge day has changed my life in so many ways it was fun and emotional i felt so comfertable in my small family groups and i felt like i could tell anybody what i felt like i could talk about anything i gave them what i thought about myself and my family that was the best day of my life thanks to mzima and randy p.s that sideways moon walk was awsome
April 8th, 2010 at 10:12 am
it was vary fun
April 8th, 2010 at 10:08 am
thank you it was vary fun
April 8th, 2010 at 10:06 am
no more bullying in pine river middle school
April 8th, 2010 at 10:05 am
no more bullying in the schools
April 8th, 2010 at 10:04 am
thanks for coming mzima and randy thank you alot
April 8th, 2010 at 10:01 am
I had fun with mzima and randy at pine river school and I would like to have another one some time.
April 5th, 2010 at 8:42 pm
Flower Power in the Yukon
Our Circle of Change was looking for an idea for spring. As a group, we decided to order daffodils from the Canadian Cancer Society and we gave them out to people all over Main Street in Whitehorse. We gave double the flowers, some to keep, and some to Pay It Forward to some one else. It had just snowed and the scene was beautiful…all white and yellow from the daffodils.
April 1st, 2010 at 3:59 pm
BE THE CHANGES 4LIFE
March 31st, 2010 at 1:58 pm
I sent out a picture text with the I Love You sign and a note that said “I hear you. I see you. I am here for you. I LOVE YOU!” to a bunch of my family and friends!
March 31st, 2010 at 6:05 am
Hey!!! its me i came to Challengeday about two months ago, and i LOVED it!! i wanted to say that it was a very emotinal exsperance for me. i had told what i was going threw and what i had been put threw . i came there with the tude “i’ve got my own problems and i don’t need to hear other peoples, its a day out of school” if it was up to me i would make it a class at school . (PENN HIGH) i never really wanted to open up to people i didnt know…but..i did. i felt so much lighter after talking about it and sometimes im in school and i think about that day and i get teary eyed …you two were the only people who would listen to me . i had thought of suicide two days befor and when that day came i had like a new meaning to live (i got three months till im 18, thats my Q to do my own life ,make something) its sad to think a 5 yr old girl had to grow up so fast never had a chance to tell my feelings ..I THANK YOU GUYS SOOOOOO MUCH. you are all sent from above ,Truly
i had wrote Oprah and told her how great it really was .im waitin on a responce. i love you all ..thanks again hope to see u soon .
March 29th, 2010 at 7:19 am
Recently moved and donated teacher, administrative filing systems to a local school as gifts for PTA raffles or silent auctions. Included the BTC card with a thank you note and 1 request: To Pay It Forward! Hopefully, this may encourage the school to find our more info on Challenge Day.
March 25th, 2010 at 3:56 pm
this be the change was amazing they came to our high school and mead every one fell like were not alone i was moved up this and love it…………….p.s lots of the mean girls at my school should have gone but was not chosen they need this to see how they are acting to other people and see how they are hurting people.
March 25th, 2010 at 6:55 am
I went to challenge day on tuesday march 23 2010 and i didnt really know what would go on but i had alot of fun and i relized that even though someone says im stupid that they are wrong because im a smart independent woman
March 24th, 2010 at 12:07 pm
I responded to a request to hug someone and just hold them, and rocked them as they cried.
March 24th, 2010 at 12:05 pm
A friend of mine who was grieveing at the loss of wife. They were married for 59 years and he had been gone for barely a month. He shared that he was still so sad and was crying all the time. It ws uncomfortable for other family members to see him so sad and he was trying to stop it, but the hurt was so huge. I told him that a love like that can’t be easily forgotten. I invited him to celebrate the love that he has for his wife and to write love letters to her. “Pour out to her the depths of your love and longing. Our faith compells us to believe that we will see each other again, so let’s act as if we believe it. Write to her, pour out your love. and when you two are joined together again, that journal of love letters will stand as a testiment of your great love for her, even after death.” did get a tablet and writes her letters daily. Yes, at times he cries when he writes, but the burden of having to keep it hidden is not there anymore.
March 24th, 2010 at 6:59 am
I am trying to help people now. after yesterday when i crossed the line that so many others didnt i looked back and seen the sign for i love you and i support you and i knew i had people that cared and i will keep it going the best i can. thank you so much
BE THE CHANGE I LOVE YOU AND I SUPPORT YOU!!!!!
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:13 pm
challenge day changed my life it helped me realize that i love talking to people and helping then through things, yet its something people would of never guessed about me, who ever want to talk hit me up at http://www.myspace.com/DxRED
March 16th, 2010 at 3:24 pm
We received the blessing of Rich and Yvonne for the weekend of March 12-14, 2010. The seminar filled teachers, students, and volunteers in the Houma, Louisiana area with love, acceptance, forgiveness, strength, and hope. I am grateful for Rich’s and Yvonne’s gifts, experience, and tireless efforts. I am proud to e a member of the Challenge Day and Be the Hero family!!
Tracy Schwab
March 16th, 2010 at 12:17 pm
I had the privileged of participating in a Next Step Program in Houma, La with my 17 yr old daughter. During one of the exercises my daughter stood up and spoke about her experience of being the child of divorced parents. I was able to, with coaching from Yvonne, hear my Daughter and to communicate back to her that I heard and understood her. In that moment, I learned that I could just listen to her. That I did not have to take ownership of her pain. That moment was a changing point in our relationship. Today, my daughter, she called me to go to lunch with her. This is a first and I see this happening much more. Thanks Yvonne for teaching me this incredible tool/gift. I commit to using it on others as often as I can.
March 16th, 2010 at 6:49 am
For the last several years I’ve been buying a small bouquet of flowers when I’m at the grocery store and presenting it to the person behind me in line (as long as it’s a woman… wouldn’t want a man to take it the wrong way). Over the years, I’ve given flowers to several hundred people and the responses have been varied and extremely rewarding. This is a “small thing” but has a huge impact on people. I’ve received comments like “you have no idea what you’ve just done…” meaning…. this was a BIG deal to that person. We can make a big difference just by reaching out and letting people know they are not invisible. We are connected! Quite a number of times, people have told me they planned on “paying it forward”. This regular act of kindness has become one of the best things I’ve done in my life and EVERY time, I feel so blessed to have gotten the idea to do it!
March 14th, 2010 at 5:03 pm
I went into a coffee shop one morning and after ordering my food told the cashier I’d like to pay for the next person’s breakfast. I had on my ‘Be the Change’ t-shirt. She held up a gift card and said someone wearng the same shirt had come in a few minutes earlier, paid for the card, and said to give it to the next person (that person being me). She then smiled and said, “I guess you’d like to pass this on” to which I replied Yes. We’re everywhere!
March 6th, 2010 at 2:55 pm
I continue to desire to come from a place of love, connection and grace at all times. I’m successful most of the time.
I’m being gentle with my “noticing”, choosing to “look for the gold”. I am successful most of the time.
March 2nd, 2010 at 7:37 pm
If you want something give it to someone else becausr they need it more. You will be rewarded in some way.
If you wish to experience peace, provide peace for another.
March 2nd, 2010 at 3:34 pm
100% a positive, eye opening and life changing experience!!! Out facilitators were ABSOLUTELY amazing. Challenge Day is what E.D. White Catholic High School needed. Made many students realize what was going on. Teachers, students, and parents all realized where we needed improvement and made those changes!!! Thanks so much Mr. Randy and Ms. Angela, FABULOUS job. Keep it up!!!!
February 20th, 2010 at 2:21 am
Workshops On the Shop Floor is for more respect and a good behaviour. No roomers, no bulling, start by your own. What can you do better in your company for a better and warmer athmosphere in your company. Stop prejudice and look in the mirror. This is my instrument that i like use as Counsellor in Company’s in little teams. I ‘am a registered therapist in europe. http://www.hennyvandenberg.eu
February 18th, 2010 at 11:45 am
I’ve decided to dedicate the next year of my life to becoming the change in my community, and hopefully leading to a bigger level as I prepare to apply to become a Challenge Day leader! If I want others to be the change, I have to do it first
February 18th, 2010 at 10:23 am
Simple things such as texting words of encouragement and love to young people I know this week helped me lift my spirits as well. I have a Challenge Day card full of gratitudes to send to my little brother. He won’t know what hugged him when he opens that one up.
The Snohomish County Circle of Change is planning their Spring / Summer fund raising splash with monthly car washes and another auction.
February 18th, 2010 at 7:56 am
My vocation in life is to teach children, through their creativity, to be the change that they wish to see in the world. We participate in several service projects during art classes in my home studio. The Global Art Project for Peace matches artists and/or groups of artists with partners for an exchange of art work which has a theme of the artist’s vision of peace. Participants are from all over the world, all seven continents. We have learned about other cultures and made friends with people from Cameroon, Singapore, Taiwan, Romania and Tucson, AZ!
The Houston Holocaust Museum will have an exhibit in 2012 of 1,500,000 butterflys created by artists of all ages and abilities. The exhibit remembers, with an artistically created butterfly, each child that died during the Holocaust. My young artists each made a butterfly for the exhibit, and one for themselves as a memento of the project. Hopefully, they will learn to stand up for what is right, and to be kind, because of this project. (A great book to read is Patricia Polacco’s “The Butterfly”)
Our next project will be spoke guards, painted and decorated for the wheelchairs at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. This will be our third contribution to the hospital to brighten the wheelchairs for the young patients there. When we deliver the whimsical and colorful spokeguards to CCMC, I can see the pride and satisfaction in my students, who know that they have made the hospital a little brighter and happier for everyone who sees their wonderful work.
February 16th, 2010 at 11:52 pm
hey,im from alaska northpole high school and i just wanted to say that this program has changed my life. thank you.
February 12th, 2010 at 2:24 pm
You know you have made an impact on your community when:
I had a truck following closely behind me this morning, I thought, “oh I should move over because he will want to pass” (I was in the left lane), so just as I put on my signal light, he did as well and went around me on the right hand side. I thought oh great, he’s going to be upset, because I didn’t move over in in to the right lane and let him pass. As he drove past me, I turned to look at him and he was giving me the Challenge Day I love you sign….!!!! It was awesome!!! (I have the Be The Change bumper sticker in my back window, so he must have been familiar with Challenge Day!) It felt wonderful! Then yesterday, I saw someone had written “Be the Change” on the back of van. (in the dirt on the window). I smiled all the way home.
February 12th, 2010 at 1:37 pm
I haven’t made this act of change yet, but I’m looking into speaking about suicide prevention here in Nebraska, and again in Michigan this summer when I go back home. I want all people to know their not alone, and that they can speak out and get help before its too late. I want to speak about my story and hopefully give others the courage to reach out too.
February 4th, 2010 at 7:12 pm
Since I saw the clip of this movement in my Teen Health class last year, I had (literally) prayed that they would come to my school. Unfortunately I was not selected to participate in this event when it came, but I think it is amazing how many people came back so much nicer. The people who went who have judged me, stereotyped against me, and made nasty remarks about me behind my back have stopped almost completely. School is much easier without that problem. I hope it stays this way.
January 31st, 2010 at 11:20 am
Rich and Yvonne shared an idea from Stratford ON which we took and enhanced. Local stores donated shovels and windshield scrapers on which we wrote: You have just received an act of change, please pay it forward. We then got busy scraping windsheilds and shovelling driveways, leaving our tools behind, hoping that the deed would be paid forward. The local press jumped on this story and the commmunity became very excited. So many people wanted to play, that we had to go back and ask for more shovels and scrapers. The cool thing is that at this very moment, someone might be scraping or shovelling! The love never stops.
January 30th, 2010 at 6:32 pm
when people crossed the line and the people that did not cross the line for that caterogry saw the people that did cross the line and they saw that everybody is not the same in many different ways and thngs that they do for different reasons and that all i have to say for now thanks a agian for everything thanks………………………………………..!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 27th, 2010 at 4:39 pm
I sent all my friends and family good morning texts, with different inspirational quotes in each one.
January 26th, 2010 at 12:33 pm
I switched to “green” bath products! All of my shampoo, conditioner, and soap are free of animal products and testing, all natural, and biodegradable.
January 26th, 2010 at 12:12 am
I really wanted to do something more original, but I decided to get started by paying the toll for the person behind me for the Oakland Bay Bridge on my way to the airport. The lady toll taker was pretty much on auto pilot as I handed her the money and the card with the request. She kind of perked up and smiled as she handed me my change and I watched in the rear view mirror as the car pulled up to her and then continued. I felt such exhilaration imagining the pleasant shock the person behind me had received and it seemed to me that creating heaven on earth could be so easy if we all spent some time each day thinking about little inexpensive things we could give or do for each other!
January 25th, 2010 at 12:05 pm
I used an ‘I statement’ to ask a friend for what I truly needed from him, rather then being angry with him, resenting him, or simply holding it in. He graciously agreed and congratulated me for setting the boundary that I needed for myself.
January 23rd, 2010 at 2:06 pm
A fellow at the mall was sitting there with jumper cables and i watched as 5 cars went around him so when it was my turn i pulled over and helped him out:)
January 23rd, 2010 at 12:28 pm
my act of change will be able to help some of the kids at my skl who feel alone and seeing this movie help me to realize i felt alone in my days i did some things until someone told me they were there for me now i wanna be there for other people.
January 21st, 2010 at 7:27 pm
be the change is designed to inspire, peace from the inside out and to create hope while challengings individals to find their passion on for all people.
the be the change movement inspires people to noticewhat’s happening in the world aroud them, to choose actions that create postive, change , and act as a living example of thr power of cantribution and compassion.
i think and my friend i think challenge was amazing and always be amazing.
January 21st, 2010 at 7:09 pm
during challenge day i gave almost every teacher and helper , friends huges….
January 21st, 2010 at 6:59 pm
when we got those cards that we had to write on … here’s what i wrote dear mom i hope some time during this summer i will be to come and spend a couple of days with you and your husband. i miss you and love you mommy. from your bay bryan abraham
January 20th, 2010 at 8:59 pm
Yesterday I helped an elderly lady from my town up the stairs, into the bank, and back out to her car. She greeted me with the biggest smile, and hug telling me: “there needs to be more young ladies like you out there.” I think I made her day, and she made mine
January 20th, 2010 at 1:02 pm
you gues rock and it helps
January 20th, 2010 at 1:00 pm
my act of change is helping me and my family get along a lot better and it make life a lot eaiser for my mom and my dad, brother ,sister ,and me as well…..
January 20th, 2010 at 10:13 am
whats up peeps i think that what you talk about will change the school boone grove middle school
January 19th, 2010 at 3:45 pm
I was in Challenge day today. And I’ll be honest with you, when I was about to go to Challenge Day, I was talking to my friend, Joan. I told him that I was NOT going to cry today, yet, odd, I criedand cried and cried every time I crossed that line. It actually made me feel great in the end of it all!
January 18th, 2010 at 3:17 pm
I had a conversation with my neighbor. After that we meet up at the ski hill and went on a bunch of runs together.
January 18th, 2010 at 3:16 pm
I said hi to a random person at my school, who looked at me blankly before walking on.
January 18th, 2010 at 3:14 pm
My act of change was helping my sister with her chores when she was busy with homework.
January 18th, 2010 at 3:10 pm
I cleaned the entire house without being asked
January 15th, 2010 at 6:48 pm
I went out of my way to ask a man who was visiting a next step training who he was and what makes him happy in life - His answer blew me away - he said seeing people love one another - He was surely in the right place
January 15th, 2010 at 6:46 pm
Today I paid for the groceries of a single mother who didn’t have enough food stamps - It was an amazing experience to see her and her child light up with appreciation
January 15th, 2010 at 3:15 pm
heyy i help my auntie with baking and cleaning up lol hahaha funn
January 15th, 2010 at 3:12 pm
My act of change is that when I went to turn the car on like I do everyday and I scraped the windshield which I don’t usually do.
January 15th, 2010 at 2:17 pm
I have graduated and been in the working world for 8 years and I am still impacted by Challenge Day. It changed my life in the most postive way.
January 12th, 2010 at 5:27 pm
i loved when chalenge day came to my school (:
January 9th, 2010 at 7:19 pm
I’m student council vice-president at my high school, and I’ve realized that people listen to what I have to say. I’m going to organize a TADD(Teens Against Drunk Driving)rally at my high school. If I have the attention of my teachers and peers, why not tell them something that’s worth hearing. I don’t know if it’ll save lives… But if doing this means someone I love will think twice before driving inebriated or getting into a car with a drunk driver, I’ve acheived my goal.
January 8th, 2010 at 7:30 pm
I just want to say that Challenge Day truely helped me more than imaginable. Only 2 weeks prior to Challenge Day I had been begging my parents to allow me to home school. I thought that leaving would be the only way to feel safe at school. I was getting verbal abuse everyday, and now, I feel like I have a family standing behind me! If it wasn’t for Challenge Day at my school, I would never have known the feeling of love and compassion from my fellow classmates, that I feel now. Thank you soooo much for all that you have done for me and my school! I promised Pam and Ray Ray that I would hug anyone feeling lonely in the halls, or the class rooms, or any where! I plan to keep my promise and BE THE CHANGE!
Once again thank you!
LOVE always and FOR EVER,
Alexa
Argyle HS
January 8th, 2010 at 5:23 pm
khayree i saw ur album! this waz a fun program! loved it. be the change!!!
January 8th, 2010 at 5:21 pm
this waz soooo fun and great!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!thxx
December 22nd, 2009 at 11:54 am
Today I made a point to hug students and let them know I love them! <3
December 16th, 2009 at 3:57 pm
Today was Challenge Dayy at Mott hall V and I had a blast! Although I have been through it already last year, this year was a fantastic time too. I learned that you need to be the change of what you want the world to be. I cried this year which made me feel a lot stronger…but last year i cried the most..that i had to use a whole tissue box too! Challenge day helped me feel stronger and notice that i am not alone when something bad happens because i now know that others might have also gone through it before or even going through it right now. I have changed and now i know that to never doubt a person on the way they act because there might be a big reason y they act the way they do. Plus, after challenge day i veiwed the world differently and thought before i acted to situations. Even though I have gone through it so much i wish that i can go through it again next year because it just makes me feel live again knowing that there are people there for me always! I will pass this day on to others by telling them about it and how challenge Day has changed my life! Notice, Choose, Act!!
December 16th, 2009 at 8:07 am
hi, we just had challenge day at our school yesterday and it was life changing for us. some many of the students in our grade were smiling, and then at other times the were laughing, or crying, but by the end of the day we had so much more fun then we thought we would. thank you angela and chris for coming all the way to jersey to do this activity. i,austin,our classmates, and our teachers had sooo much fun thank you! BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO BE!
December 7th, 2009 at 9:22 pm
Every Sunday,my friends and I treat anyone who needs it,to a nice hot lunch-soup,buns and treats.
Recently we were joined by another group of folks and, now our lunch guests get sandwiches and
hot chocolate too!
This all started when one woman and her daughter noticed a need in our community and decided to do something about it:)
December 7th, 2009 at 4:53 pm
i know i probally didnt stand out to them in their day to day school visits but they changed my life and i will always remember this day.
December 7th, 2009 at 2:33 pm
Once again, we have had an amazing Challenge Day experience here in Williams Lake! If you really knew me you would know that I LOVE CHALLLENGE DAY!!!!!
Thanks to Randy and Angela, two beautiful, amazing and wonderful Challenge Day leaders, whose genuine love and compassion for those in our community was evident on their faces and in their hugs. Williams Lake, really is Being The Change we wish to see in the world!
November 23rd, 2009 at 10:57 pm
i helped my mom at work today and i helped my neighbors kids with there homework
November 23rd, 2009 at 10:15 am
My community participated in a two day “Challenge Day” event recently. We had the joy of meeting Jyoti and Rich. I was so amazed and describe what happened in my community on those two days, as a miracle. I had the opportunity to meet and “drop the waterline” with people I never would have bothered to get to know in my own community, it was such a transformative ultra-special two days. I was so tired, but energized with such hope and purpose that I am involved in organizing our first “Be the Change” group this evening, we hope to continue and nurture the movement in others and those that were involved in the two days. It is up to us to continue with the good teachings shared with us by the “Challenge Day” folks. I am so impressed by the way in which things moved on those days. Miigwech (Thank-You) Jyoti and Rich for coming to our beautiful island. We love you.
November 21st, 2009 at 9:37 pm
When i was in challenge day i learned that im not the only with problems and at the end of the day you realize many people go through the same problems like you do.I have to say that challenge day really changed my life ,like i dont judge people anymore.Challenge day was an amazing inspiration. Thank You!!!
November 18th, 2009 at 5:25 pm
The challenge day team can to our school today to talk to the grade 10’s. I really enjoyed your program and found it empowering and inspiring. So many people are going through things and it made the world of difference to be able to talk about it. When we “crossed the line” it made me realize that we are not in this alone. There is always someone we can turn and talk to - as long as their willing to listen. Additionally, the challenges and stories put out to everyone by people were extremely eye-opening and emotional. People that I had previously made fun of or talked about, were brought into a whole new light and what they are going through is unbelievable - I should have never judged them the way I did. Thanks for coming to our school, I think you have started something that will last for a long time to come!
November 18th, 2009 at 1:38 pm
We will stop checking, playing, making fun of other kids,and putting each other down.
November 12th, 2009 at 7:08 pm
OK, there are lots of people on facebook and myspace that might need help. My friend lives in florida and is having harding life, people pick on her alot, barly has any friends. I think You should have challenge day online because it wouldnt be just one or two places at a time, it will be global. I know this will work for lots of people, it did for me. I have opened up stuff for so long till challenge day was at my school. (note to self, im really bad at typing letters and spelling,lol) i dont know how to sent Emails that great,lol
November 10th, 2009 at 7:40 pm
I just recently attended a challenge day at my high school. Before I went, I had no idea what to expect and thought it was going to be “cheesy” and a waste of time. By the time I left at the end of the day, I had cried several times, just from hearing about what my friends and peers were going through - some things that I have experienced myself and know that no one should go through alone. Challenge day really made me gain a sense of community in my school, which I never felt before. I’m so thankful that our school was able to have a challenge day and give everyone the chance to share what they are feeling, and get support from their teachers and friends. I especially enjoyed the energy of our hosts Katie and Jake, who shared their life stories with us and (at least for me) really bonded with the group. I wish that all schools would get the change to take part in a challenge day, and that one day I will be able to help out others, through challenge day or another organization, the way that you guys have helped me and my friends.
November 10th, 2009 at 9:36 am
I finally told me sister that i love her.
November 10th, 2009 at 9:36 am
I do not really talk to my sister. And when i do i am rude to her. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday(11/6-11/8) i went to the Next Step Worskshop. I realized what i was doing was so wrong. I was hurting my sister
November 9th, 2009 at 9:34 am
Our school here in Provo, Utah released over 200 red balloons last week. As we let them go we played Challenge Day Song “Love and Remember” Each of us made a pledge as they floated off to be the change and make a difference by being drug free. We each vowed to stand for healing the pain caused by drug usage by our friends and loved ones. It was powerful.
November 8th, 2009 at 6:37 pm
that was a great chioce for me to go to chalenge day because if i didnt go i would be a the person but i did change from that day…. thank you for coming to my school……
November 6th, 2009 at 3:28 pm
Today I called and texted several family members who live in Montana, Virginia, Kansas, Hawaii, Washington and California to tell them that I love thema and how special they are to me and to the family. Why wait to tell people that you love them? Why not spread to good stuff around more generously? ;o) I also hugged myself for being a good sister and a great cousin. ;o)
November 5th, 2009 at 5:33 pm
Thank you guys so much to come to our school and teache us that we all have stuff in common and we dont realese it tell people starts opening up to you and i think its great EVERY SCHOOL SHOULD HAVE CHALLENGE DAY so you can talk to people that you really never talk to in school i had challenge day yeserday and i been sitting with people that i dont really known that are sitting by there self and i talk to them and eat with them I LOVE CHALLENGE DAY THANK YOU GUYS.
November 5th, 2009 at 5:21 pm
I wrote a Thank you letter to the gentleman who made my most recent vacation turn out wonderful and included a gift card for Starbucks. (I was stuck in Miami with no passport and unable to board the cruise) He had gone above and beyond in giving me a sense of peace and made me feel taken care of. I also took the time to write the manager of the Inter-Continental Hotel to share my expierence and to state what a treasure they had in that employee!
November 5th, 2009 at 3:20 pm
A couple of days ago, I received a ‘homeplay’ from my teacher; do at least one act of change during the next two days. Once you get an assignment, you start to see how many things you could change. It’s easy to say hi to a stranger while walking to a optometrist, or hold the door for a heavy-burdened stranger. Telling your family you love them always cheers you up, especially if they say ‘I love you’ back. Recycling and Composting are great for the environment.
November 5th, 2009 at 3:14 pm
I was at Star bucks garbing a hot chocolate and as I was there was a lady that had a little kid holding on to her left hand and 3 coffees in the other, so I went over and held the door for her. She smiled and left happily.
November 5th, 2009 at 3:12 pm
I filled up the furnace room with wood with out being asked to help my dad.
November 4th, 2009 at 4:03 pm
So today my sister, Christina was helping kids out for challenge day in her school. WHen she got home she told me she had fun and told me everything that happend. She said they played games and listen to what people had to say about there lives,Some not as bad as others but,everyone in her group at one time she’d a tear today. My sister said as she sat around the cirlce looking at all the younger kids that had it worse then her she couldnt help but give everyone a hug, and smile at the kids who shared there storys. When It was my sister’s Time to share her story she didnt realy talk about herself but my other sister and I. She told everyone How her father was strict when we where younger to the point we couldnt even talk to boys, then she told them about are older sister who is 19 and has a baby girl.She also talked about me having a baby on the way. I guess at the end of this whole thing they all had to write a note to someone. My sister picked me witched touched me alot. She said in this note that she could never explain to me how muchh she loves me and how much she looks up to me. She said I was the strongest person she noes.Skipping through some of it I read this”Although you are pregnant and I thought at first you were realy dumb I realized how much its affected you and has made you the sister im proud to have today” That is what hit me. She could write to anyone at all. Anyone it didnt even have to be me.But, she wrote to me. My sister today made my day alot better to live and my future to come very happy. I just hope you all know that Challenge day isnt just about istting in a circle and tlaking about your promblems with others but, making a difrence in others lifes. thanks for reading this:)
November 4th, 2009 at 10:42 am
hay im glad i found this site because it helps people change there lives and me 2 love u all cus ur changein lives
November 3rd, 2009 at 3:32 pm
I wish there was a simple solution to end poverty..although indubitably it will be difficult, it CAN be done.
let’s join together and try, try to help those communities that are struggling to put food on the table.
let’s join forces and make change, change to benefit not only those around us, but those whom look at us, so they can know that we are the best nation because politics don’t come first, the people do.
November 2nd, 2009 at 6:01 pm
Dakota ridge has completely become a new panorama for me, Angela and Tony changed the perspective of things and gave a new point of view i’d never thought i’d see. They made even the most stubborn let a tear out, and that was strange, because in Dakota Ridge there are a lot of prejudicial people, never realizing what others have in their balloon or so called. I’m a junior in high school and I’ve gone to Challenge day all three years, I look forward to it because its like a refreshing day were i get to start anew, because my nice self gets a little rusty at the end of the year… But still I’ve learned a lot and hope to continue learning through my last year of high school next year, because those values I’m sure will never go away and have made me think i want to be part of the crew when i grow up and help even the most emotionally in need… It’s a day to never forget.
November 2nd, 2009 at 1:20 am
I was talking to a young Mom while attending a baby shower. Got to talking about spiritual things and I sensed a need for connection and family. I invited her to come to visit my church and she ewas very grateful for the invitation. She even Facebooked my daughter about it and I believe she will be attending next week.
I’ll let you all know OK.
October 29th, 2009 at 3:55 pm
Thank thank u thank u thank u for coming to fletcher high school it was fun exciting and very loving . in that room was how i wanted the world to be loving caring kind and funny of course. ray ray was my favorite but jenifer was real i love u both and thank u for showing me how to show my love towards people today 2 days after challenge day i’ve been giving people who need a hug a hug and getting 12 hugs a day.once again thank u and god bless u love charlandra.i would love to get emails so my email is duvaltruesoldier@yahoo.com .
October 29th, 2009 at 6:34 am
Yesterday as I rushed to “Panera” to grab a quick & healthy lunch before my next home visit as I parked I saw a little cat ( white with collar no #) looking scared , hungry & dirty… I started to talk to him : ” It is Ok love, it is ok… you are ok… so gently I picked him up and put him in my car. I did not know what to do. I was hungry & could only think of getting something to eat before heading to my next appointment.I called a good friend that rescue lots of cats and asked for the shelter’s# …The more I looked @ the little felow I could not bring myself to the shelter… I would not have the time to drive there. So i called another friend and she said, bring it here, go to your appointment & come back, so I did. Long story short “Marshmallow” (my daughter Gabriela named him)is an albino cat around 10 months old is was exhausted, hungry & frightened… he did not eat, or drink yesterday. Today i checked on him @ 4 am & he was eating and lay down wanting me to pat him. New addition to our family <3 <3 <3
October 28th, 2009 at 6:56 pm
when i went to challenge day the other day going in it thought it would be boring and pointless but when i came out of it im a way different person. challenge day mad me realize im not alone and there are many people just like me and i felt i was able to express how i feel without being judged and i was listend to for once. knowing people go through the same things i go through and the troubles i go through changed me as a person.i highly recomend if you ever have the chance to participate in challenge day. do it its saved my life and has changed me as a person. and its truley one of the best experiences of my life.
October 28th, 2009 at 5:08 pm
I real like your club i hope to see you again thank you for all the love today.
October 28th, 2009 at 2:47 pm
I try to make a change every day of my life, whether it is by smiling at a stranger, holding a door open for another or thanking someone who doesn’t expect it. I do this to hopefully promote others to pay it forward and also for my children to learn to respect others.
This world is scary right now and we need all those that have kind, open hearts to spread the good. The bad is taking over.
October 26th, 2009 at 2:52 pm
Today katie and chris cam to paris high in paris texas and talked to 100 of our 8th grade and it was really emotional and i learned alot of things i didnt know about other people it really helped me to get out of my comfort zone i mean im 13 year old boy and i cried so it dosent mean since your a boy you shouldnt crie they helped me to not be scared to speak and speak from my heart and also helped me to not be so scared about whats gonna happen next i would like to thank them for that much love
October 26th, 2009 at 2:16 pm
My school had Challenge Day today, and I have to say it was the best day of my life. The excitement, the cheerful people, the tears, the hugs…everything today was absolutely amazing to me. Without doing the activities that we did today, I think it is almost impossible for us to realize what kinds of things everyone goes through every single day of their lives, kids and adults alike.
October 26th, 2009 at 5:59 am
Emma - Challenge day was the first day to the rest of my life. I truly learned to love others as much as i love myself. its almost like the wind, you can’t see it. But you sure can feel it. And boy did i feel it that day. My future is now as bright as the sun, and as special as the kids of the future. Amen.
Libby-Challenge day was an ahh-mazingg experince for me it showed me that everyone has problems and strugles to deal with everyday.and that everyone is the same on the inside.When i look at people i will think about them and there life befor i make it that more complicated for them.
October 26th, 2009 at 2:45 am
I opened up the web page and a wave of emotion immediately rushed over me as I was reminded about my own experience. I participated in a Challenge Day 6 years ago!!! and to this day it is still one of my most memorable experiences. As dramatic as it may seem, the “line crossing activity” my dad, my brother, and I participated in completely changed my life. By the end of it all three of us were in tears and unbelievably emotional, not only re-experiencing some of our own difficulties/tragedies, but watching others enduring memories and parts of their lives as well. My dad was especially moved by the experience and has brought it to multiple high schools in our suburban Michigan area. I feared that many of the kids in our surrounding high schools, even some of my own friends, would not be open and accepting to the experience, but I cannot even explain how pleased (and how proud of my dad)I was to hear my big,macho,tough guy friends tell me how amazing the experience was. As I said, its not been six years since my last challenge day and it is something I feel the need to tell so many people about. I now live in Los Angeles, California and I would love to be a part of bringing it to schools in this area. Challenge Day is amazing and I just want to thanks for being such a positive organization.
October 25th, 2009 at 6:33 pm
Keep recycling for everything.
October 25th, 2009 at 7:18 am
I’m an 18 year old participant of Katimavik in New Brunswick. I’ve been here for a month, and yesterday I participated for the first time in the 4th annual Gulu Walk in Fredericton. It gave me an immense feeling of pride and happiness that I could be part of such an amazing organization. What the Gulu Walk does is raise money and awareness for/about Northern Uganda and the tragedies that have been going on there. It is in strong support of the children between the ages of 7 and 17 who are forced into being soldiers, sex slaves, spies, etc.. The majority of the population in Uganda are children to the age of 17.
Last weekend I built my own cardboard shelter and slept in it for 12 hours in support of the homeless here in Fredericton and all over the world.
As I mentioned, I am very proud and happy to have the opportunity to learn of such things as these and become an active “global citizen”. Thank you Katimavik.
http://www.guluwalk.com/
October 24th, 2009 at 6:24 pm
I am practicing honest, trust, and openness is EVERY relationship.
October 23rd, 2009 at 1:41 pm
I perticipated in challenge day freshman year. It truly let me open up to others and was the begining of confidence in myself. Before i knew it, i had become a member of the Be The Change club. I’m so excited to be a part of this club and further celebrate and support our community. There is so much planned, and i can’t wait to share my happieness with everybody else. ^u^
a thanks to challenge day,
Amanda
October 22nd, 2009 at 9:31 am
this is katherine williams and I was a former student of everett high school and attended be the change at everett high I think there the most amazing school that has brought alot of change to there peers
October 22nd, 2009 at 4:59 am
ray.ray and mzima came to lafayette jeferson high school and showed me how to starte a new life and i have iv stoped bullying in my school and i have stoped put downs….i plan on continuing this habit..thank you for changeing my life
October 21st, 2009 at 1:07 pm
I had Challenge Day at my school yesterday. It was the best experience of my life. It mad me realize that it is not a good idea to bottle up all my feelings inside. Its ok to let yourself cry when you feel like it. I also had a fun time, the dancing was soo much fun. I think now my perspective of life has changed and that it is going to just keep gatting better and better. At my school people form cliques to keep things to certain people. The people with money soometimes think they run the school. Going into the gym i wasn’t sure how the day was going to go I didn’t know what to expect. the speakers introduces theirselves. Aunty Nola and Chris were quite the characters to be around. They are at my school for three days. Many tears have and are going to be shed. A lot of hugs are going around. The activities had everyone invovled. I will never forget this day.
Thank You with all my heart,
Taylar Price, a sophomore at Beloit Memorial High School
October 20th, 2009 at 9:39 pm
Challenge day was today and i assumed some things about it but i was totally wrong and i learned not to judge. Are community needs to learn to love and appreciate people not just put people down.
I learned to speak out and let my voice be heard or else i’ll never get it out there and people won’t know what im going through. I already knew people had the same problems as me but to here them face to face was good for me to share. Challenge Day truthfully changed me. much RESPECT…
October 20th, 2009 at 5:50 pm
I would like to say this changed my life, I just went to it today. I believe the Kids and Adults who attend this program will surly feel changed by it.
October 20th, 2009 at 5:18 pm
today my school had the first ever challenge day nd at first i didnt know what to think but when they said to go around and find sombody you dont knoe and give them a hug i was kind a scared cause i dont really talk to people that i dont know so am like uhh i dont think so but then as the day went on i felt more comfortable with my surroundings nd it turned out that i had a blast with aunty nola nd chris lol love you guys lol
October 20th, 2009 at 1:30 pm
Wow! You guys are great, Vinny and Jon came to South Huron District High School today, and they were simply amazing. What they do, is really great. And Vinny and Jon are so cute. ^^ Thanks guys for everything.
I will be the change I want to see in the world. <3.
October 19th, 2009 at 7:03 pm
thank you for the challenge day leaders that came to our school!
(WHOOOOO!)
It was an amazing experience. It was the most inspirational day of my life, and i am ready to be part of the CHANGE!
it’s exactly what our country, our WORLD needs! Change! we DO have the power to make peace. to build happiness, and love towards one another instead of putting each other down with nasty insults and accusutions. you know, why is it that we can’t be ourselves anymore? why is that so wrong? isn’t that who we are supposed to be? our selves? my middle schools leaders for the day, tony, and pam, (i think) they told us that we are like icebergs. we only let our image show above the suface. and thats only 10%. what happens to the other 90%? ITS HIDDEN. because right now, we live in fear. and fear is exactly whats holding us back from standing up for ourselves. BEING US!!!
from now on, i am promising to make the change. and i’m pretty sure our whole school is up for it too. when grow up, i want to be exactly like the people in this foundation.
THANK YOU!
October 19th, 2009 at 5:23 pm
Pam and Tony came to my school for challenge day today, and I LOVED IT! Thank you so much for coming! I was completely changed, and I learned things about some of my closest friends that I would have never thought about before. Challenge Day completely changed my look on the school and my friends, and I am so grateful for that. Now there will be no more bullying, teasing, fighting, or gossiping. I feel like I dont have to worry about any of that anymore and that I can just be myself and not care what other people think. I feel so much closer to my friends and people that I never would have talked to before. I met new people and I am so happy that they came and did this with us. Thank you!
October 16th, 2009 at 6:21 pm
today i actually listened to my mom and did what she told me.it feels so good to be on her good side.now no one is mad.
October 15th, 2009 at 3:58 pm
We had it today,a nd it changed me so much i feel like a brand new person and i just wanted to hug all of my friends. I felt soo connected to my friends it was a great experience overall.:) thanx to jenn and jake
October 15th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
For Kalida High School, for each issue that the teens go through, helping them being mature, responsible teens that they are Jeremiah 29:11 for they will have a future & Hope
kalidak12.oh.us
October 14th, 2009 at 4:59 pm
Notice-To many youths and adults are doing drugs and parents need to get involved with the community to help these people recover and live a normal life. Choose-I have chose to help these people with their additions. Act-I will save one person at a time and will mentor them to stay clean.
October 12th, 2009 at 1:54 pm
<3 you Bernice and Ray-Ray! It was weird because some people in my group, whose lives I thought were so perfect, really weren’t… It was an amazing chance to share my shared battles with my best friend.
October 10th, 2009 at 8:42 am
Thank you so much to Tony and Jyoti for taking time out of your lives to come help us be the change at Perry County Middle School in Missouri on October 7th and 8th. You have really helped us out and you guys have brought the whole seventh grade together and we all have closer bonds with each other. Challenge Day for myself and others was a fun and emotional experience that I know I will remember for a long time. Tony and Jyoti, you have helped us all “drop the waterline” and get real with ourselves and others around us. If you saw the ways others are treating others now you would be proud because we have broke the forcefield around the cliques and the drama and I just wanted to thank you so much for all of your hard work at our school. I hope that you can help other schools like you have greatly helped ours.
P.S- Tony and Jyoti, if you ever have the time i would appreciate it if you guys would comment back to me
October 8th, 2009 at 11:05 am
I went to Challenge Day last year as a Sophomore and I am so excited to go again as a student facileter this year for my school. I believe that Challenge Day brought my class closer together we are a better class because of Challenge Day. Challenge Day also brought me out of my shell and made me realize that you don’t always to worry about what people think about you. The people who care about the real you is all that matters. I hear about schools where the kids there are so rude to each other and do horrible things to people and I’m glad that my school isn’t like that the only thing I wish for my school is that kids here didn’t seperate and judge just because of what a person looks like or their beliefs. Most of this is done by girls but also done by boys, I never understood how you could belittle someone just because their different or their not the popular kid. I always try to make everyone feel comfortable and nice to them, I don’t see the point anymore of being mean to someone. I use to be the mean girl but Challenge Day changed me and made me realize that if your the mean girl your not going to get very far and you might lose your real friends because of your actions. And I think since Challenge Day people think of me differently and they don’t see the mean girl that makes fun of them anymore they see the girl that smiles at them and stops to talk to them in the hallway. Well thanks guys!
October 7th, 2009 at 8:17 pm
I would like to thank Auntie Nola and Randy of the Challenge Day program for coming to my school to talk to my fellow 8th graders and I earlier today and showed us a different way of life and others. This program is amazing. I am a shy, not popular person at my school. When i took the time to talk to a popular person, i learned we have more in common than I thought. I had so much fun and i really showed my emotions ( I cried wayyyyyy too much).
Thank You Auntie Nola, Randy, and the entire Challenge Day Program for helping us here in Virginia to respect one another and to have the couage to tell others of the terrible things that have happened in our lives.
BE THE CHANGE!! SHARE THE LOVE!!
Sincerely,
Alyssa Morris
8th grader
Simpson MS, Virginia
[date of challenge day: Sept 7th, 2009]
October 7th, 2009 at 10:16 am
Challenge day was fun but it told me that im not the only one who has issues. it was emotinal but now other people know an i that were not alone and that we could talk to more people about our issues.
October 7th, 2009 at 8:01 am
Challenge day made me realize that there are a lot of other people who have to go through some of the same situations as i do, and that i can go and talk to any of them. I realized that I’m not alone. Challenge day also made me realize what other people are going through. It was a lot of fun, and very emotional. I think challenge day helped a lot of people, and I’m glad you came.
October 7th, 2009 at 8:00 am
I had really fun yesterday, it made me feel really wide open when I cried a lot. Thank you and I will make a change in the world. {:-)
October 7th, 2009 at 7:59 am
Challenge day changed me alot, I see many people differnet now and I shall treat them better than I used to. now if I see any act of bullying I shall attemp to stop it and not just watch.
October 7th, 2009 at 7:18 am
Since Challenge Day came to our school, I feel that everyone is getting along better. I feel a lot better and I made more friends.
Thank you.
October 7th, 2009 at 7:17 am
I love cahllenge day. It change my whole life. It is so much fun. CHALLENGE DAY ROCKS!
I like the part were we have to run really quick to get a seat at the other side and the last person that doesn’t get a seat has say something
October 5th, 2009 at 11:38 am
What an emotional roller coaster it was to participate in Challenge Days. I’ve been in inspired to reach out to more new people within my school and also make sure I recognize the people that I admire and keep them encouraged. I hope other students take this day to heart and help in the effort of instilling change … and not going back. Big thanks to our Challenge Day Leaders, Katie and Kakoa!! We love you guys and you will always be remembered.
September 30th, 2009 at 8:30 pm
We had challenge today and as student leader the program is truly inspirational and eye opeinging to me and I know countless others.
Thank you
Tony and Joti
September 30th, 2009 at 8:24 pm
I had Challenge Day come to my school today. I am so fortunate to have this come to my school. I felt like all the walls and barriers came tumbling down today. I went up to the microphone and said the following words, “Last year, I went to a school where I was not aloud to wear what I wanted, act how I wanted, be bisexual, or be myself and I am so grateful to go to a school where people ARE aloud to wear what they want and act how they want and be weird and it doesn’t matter! Thank you!” I go to an arts magnet school and I am extreamly grateful to be there. When I said those words, I got a stand ovation and people were crying and they all came forward and hugged me and said, “We love you Charlotte!”. I am so happy to have finnaly been heard and cared for, for what I think and want to say. Thank you!
I will be the change I wish to see in the world.
September 25th, 2009 at 12:03 pm
I think that scince the program “Challeng Day” came i have been such a change in how i feel about other people and how i treat others. I think that i can for sure give a recomendation of how other should go to the “Challenge Day”
September 24th, 2009 at 10:38 am
I was entering a drive thru to pick up coffee and a snack and I allowed a car coming from the wrong direction in the line ahead of me. When I got to the window to pay for my order the car that I let in had already paid for it! I was amazed and it felt so good I intend to pay it forward soon!
September 21st, 2009 at 2:35 pm
My act of change today was to volunteer for parent patrol at the Middle School.
It was fun connecting with and meeting new kids!
September 19th, 2009 at 5:43 am
Challenge Day was the opportunity for me to share about my pending divorce. A girl in my small family has a father serving in Afganistan. And although she thought everything at home was “ok” without him there, I shared the pain that a father experiences not having his children close to him. The joy of doing things spontaneously, saying prayers at night, cooking or enjoying a meal, supporting his childrens’ goals, helping with homework, to wake up to their smiling faces, going to church…the list goes on of things that a father misses out on when separated from his children. Following the Power Shuffle, this girl released her tears, shared from her heart about missing her father and then eased back in her chair and looked at me saying, “This day is sooooooo bizarre.” I agreed. We connected. It was my favorite moment of Challenge Day. Thanks Ray Ray and Jennifer for sharing yourselves with us for two very powerful days.
September 18th, 2009 at 5:56 pm
today for the first time Northwood Middle school in northwood ohio had their 2009 8th graders participate in challenge day. it was a great experiance and helped everyone get to know eachother. we shared our emotions even the ones that hurt the most. it was a very toughtful and emotional day. everyone shared secrets and expressed themselfs. i would love to do challenge day again. i could say that it helped me a lot. i hope all the change will stay the same. Thankyou Katie and Sean for coming to help us with the changes in our school. everyone always remember Notice::::Choose::::Act! Three most important words. Challenge day has change my life. i learned how to be respectfull to others and most importantly MYSELF. Thankyou Kaite and Sean for your support.
September 18th, 2009 at 5:53 pm
I started a huge vegetable garden with a few friends. We produced so much food that we were able to give 98 pounds to the local food bank.
September 17th, 2009 at 5:03 pm
I have recently had a challenge day at my school and I am very grateful that they chose my school to enjoy this experiment. I went on September 14, 2009. The staff that was given to our school was Sela & Kekoa. And i wouldnt have wanted any other leaders to have done this challenge day for us. We had four days that were dedicated to challenge day. And on the fourth day we had a big assembly for the entire school. And although i heard the stories before and i knew what to expect everything still brought emotion to me. This experience brought so much change to our school is unbelievable. I am so thankful for what Sela & Kekoa did for our school no amount of words can even explain. They brought some children out of the dark and allowed them to speak without being afraid. I really enjoyed them at my school and I would love for them to come back. Kekoa’s story really touched my heart. Sela & Kekoa are two people in my life that i will never forget. Sela & Kekoa if you ever read this MAHALO. You have no idea what you have done for me. P.S if you guys get this comment please write back i would love to hear from you guys.Love you guys… Talk To You Guys Later.. (;
Thank You Sela & Kekoa
Love always,
Fuschia
Waianae HI,96792
September 16th, 2009 at 2:43 pm
I donated to my friend’s 3 day walk for breast cancer cause.
September 15th, 2009 at 5:11 pm
We had Challenge Day this week. I noticed when students were avoiding challenge day . . . I invited them to come again and again, and finally succeeded. The reluctant ones are my favorite. They have to most to learn and gain and I love them dearly:)
September 15th, 2009 at 4:56 pm
dear angela and chris,(; thank you for coming to our school evergreen junior high. me and my frineds really appreciate it everybody thaught that it was so cool what you guys(angela and chris)did. I wish that you two would come to evergreen more often than just once a year. I also wish that they had room for more than just the 150-200 people to go to the challenge day thanks for all that you guys did for me and my friends. when ever you guys had told us to write a letter to someone that we had loved or knew I had wrote it to my mom and when ever i gave it to her she had liked it and she had gave me a really big super hug. I think that was like you guys should do more than just challenge day stuff i think that yall guys should go to many schools and do many things like: have a fun day or just go there to just have a great and silly time with the other students. I had just wanted to say thank you for all you guys and mrs. amedee did for us guys at evergreen junior high school. so yeah thnx u gys(; <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 yeah!
September 15th, 2009 at 11:07 am
I have been an adult facilitator with Fortuna Union High School Challenge Days for the past three years now and the following story shows how Challenge Days really does help ALL members of our community not just students. I was in the doctor’s office with my husband and he was wearing a Be the Change shirt that I had gotten as an adult facilitator during Challenge Days with Fortuna Union High School. One of the nurses stopped us and nearly shouted, “Where did you get that?”, we explained I had gotten it when I participated earlier that year. She proceeded to tell us a story of how her family had always been relatively tight nit and they were generally very happy, until her son became a freshman in high school. He started coming home from school very unhappy and began detaching himself, emotionally, from their family unit. They considered themselves to have strong Christian values but she said that didn’t seem to be helping. Her son attended a Challenge Day and she said one of his main tormentors had apologized and vowed to “Be the Change”. Her son was so excited when he came home that day and his life really was changed as was their entire families. This was several months after that, the bully had kept his promise, and she said her son was actually becoming friends with the boy who had previously been bullying him and he even joined our “Be the Change” team. By the end of her story she was in tears and so was I, I believed in the power of Challenge Days before this but I now see that the effects go far beyond that day and out into our community and for that I thank everyone who has helped make Challenge Days happen at our school and all over!!!!!! I hope that everyone, adult or child, gets a chance to be involved with Challenge Days at some point in their life. Please keep up the good work.
September 14th, 2009 at 1:23 pm
I would like to thank everyone at Challenge Day. It was my first Challenge Day today and I really enjoyed it. I can’t even describe how amazing it was. It was THAT cool. I really enjoyed it. Thanks for such a wonderful program. ;D
Houma, LA, heck yeah. We learned so much. It was the greatest experience ever. Thanks Ms. Angie and Mr. Chris. Yall have inspired me in more ways than I can express.
September 11th, 2009 at 4:09 pm
I noticed an elderly woman searching for her car in a parking lot. I asked her if she needed some help and she told me she was disoriented. I asked her what make and model her car was and asked her for the keys and together we went up the rows until we found it. She gave me a hug and said “God bless you.”
September 11th, 2009 at 4:06 pm
While checking out at my local grocery store I noticed that the cashier had beautiful eyes. I told her I thought her eyes were beautiful and she told me that she had been having a terrible day and I had just made it better and she really appreciated the connection. It was more about the connection than it was about the fact that I thought her eyes were beautiful.
September 11th, 2009 at 4:05 pm
Every September 11th I take cakes decorated with flags to the local fire stations to show appreciation for all that they give to their communites and in rememberence of 9/11. They are always touched, appreciative and surprised. It feels great.
September 11th, 2009 at 4:03 pm
I was walking into a restaurant and noticed two women exiting, one was on a walker and the other woman was trying to hold and help her. She was struggling with the heavy door. I ran to hold the door open so they could safely leave and the woman assisting the woman on the walker said “Oh, there are good people out there” and I said “yeah, and don’t ever doubt it.” It was a joy to see what nothing more than holding a door open created.
September 11th, 2009 at 12:17 pm
After experiencing Challenge Day we have been thinking a lot about how we can change our school and be a benefit to the community. We have been putting up posters around our school and meeting with our counselor weekly with ideas on Acts of Change. We want to thank Chris and Auntie Nola for their time,effort, and their love for students. We are truly trying to make a difference.
September 7th, 2009 at 3:28 pm
I go to East Cobb Middle School. I went to Challenge Day in the 7th grade. My leaders were Mzima and Chris. I had the time of my life. It was amazing. Through the tears and smiles. It really made you think. I may become a leader. I hope this year the 7th graders will feel the same. The effect didnt last long but while it did it was amazing. THANK YOU FOR THE AMAZING EXPERIENCE!!!!
September 4th, 2009 at 4:54 pm
I spent eight weeks this summer volunteering in rural Nicaragua with Amigos de las Americas!
September 4th, 2009 at 8:35 am
I partcipated in Challenge Day this week for the second time. This program has changed my life. I am overwhelmed with emotion while writing this blog. I wish every school and every student could experience this awesome program. I see so many sad, anger, and confused faces at school. I see kids getting bullied and it just breaks my heart. I truely believe after challenge Day our school will be a different place. I just WISH every young person could have the experience I did.
September 3rd, 2009 at 4:27 pm
I loved Challenge Day. It was very emotional but a great time. I just wish I could go back so I would have had enough courage to speak in front of everyone. I know what to say, but I just felt like I would mess up. I do have to say my first thoughts about the program was negative. I was thinking it was just a therapy session, but once I got there I realized it was so much more than that. I think it is one of those events that you didn’t want to end or something you can do again. Challenge Day has been one of the best experiences of my life. So if you are trying decide whether or not to go, It is great and something everyone should experience.
September 3rd, 2009 at 12:00 am
Only a day after I told my friend I don’t ever think that I could ever be a parent…
and the same day of me reading a book of how to raise confident kids ( A prize that I won from the radio God only knows why…)That’s when she rang my door… a bruised and hurting teen in need of a home.
Now I am so inspired to make a change!!! I need prayers and some huge support … with God anything is possible! P.S I would love to volenteer and bring this to Canada! Love ya all.
August 29th, 2009 at 9:57 am
Hello Everybody, My Name Is Tracey. Just This Week We Had Our Challenge Day. This Is My Second Year Attending. Ray Ray And Mzima, Our School Putnam City Origanal Would Like To Thank You For Coming And Getting Real And Keeping It Real With Us. It Has Not Been That Long, But Our School Is Really Turning Around.You Guys Have Made A Big Diffrence In Our School, And Touched So Many Of Our Lives. Auntie Lola, We Haven’t Forgot About You. Well Thank You Again For Your Kindness And Your Dedactaion 2 Make The World A Better Place And Our School Systems Around The World. HOPE TO SEE YOU NEXT YEAR!!!!!! PCO!!!!
August 27th, 2009 at 7:35 am
Jennifer and Chris who lead challenge day here at Vandebilt Catholic in Houma,Louisiana were absolutely AMAZING! I’ve been involved in retreats for the past ten years and have never seen kids so locked in and focused! Hearts were changed and I’m very inspired as a teacher and coach to continue to spread the message. It really has helped my students to link the message of Love through Jesus Christ and what took place yesterday! Thank you Jennifer and Chris! You were a blessing to our school!!! God Bless, Coach David Constant
August 25th, 2009 at 7:07 am
Im commiting to being a part of my Challenge Day leadership goup. We can’t wait for the Challenge Days and might be making warm fuzzies to pass out because, seriously, what better way to make everyone feel safe, loved, and celebrated than warm fuzzies?? Be the Change!
August 21st, 2009 at 9:01 am
CD blessed our staff w/ the AMAZING gift of hanging together having fun at Discovery Kingdom last week Friday and an ACT OF CHANGE (SEVERAL) were done to me so I want to share.
Richie Rich blessed Letalia (My Puka) w/ an electric Guitar that he (JG) won playing hoops at Discovery Kingdom. TOTAL Act of Change I didn’t even see that coming! THANKS Richie!
ANNNNND then… not only did Letalia get an electric Guitar, MAMA E blessed Letalia once again by paying for her VERY FIRST guitar lesson. I mean DANNNG!!!! Didn’t see that coming either! Thanks Mama E…
I LOVE the way you two LOVE and teach me how I can do it bigger and better. Thanks Mama E and Richie for believing in my baby!
August 16th, 2009 at 8:41 pm
I gifted a little boy with a toy dog
August 1st, 2009 at 10:26 pm
I have been fortunate enough to be an adult facilitator at four Challenge Days. Each was a unique, positive, growing, cathartic experience. Perhaps, if I’m lucky enough to participate a few more times, I will get to “cross the line” rather than remain on the side of the room when asked if I’ve never had the chance to be a child. That one gets my tears gushing each and every time, and each and every time I help facilitate a Challenge Day, I get the miraculous opportunity for a “do over” and be a child for a portion of the day. THANK YOU CHALLENGE DAY!!! XOXOXOXO
August 1st, 2009 at 6:33 am
Last night I was mildly bored and started to go through my phone after seeing all my contacts I felt I talked to most people on it enough. Though I felt there were people who I only put on my phone to ignore them later on. Still not feeling up to talking to them I talked to my friend who I usually talk to she talked to me about something bad that was going on so ?I decided the good thing to do was to keep talking to her so I canceled all my plans for the night expecting I would probably end up going to her house or talking on the phone for a long time. After calming her down she said thank you and I wished her a good night. After realizing I till had many hours to my night I decided to text a few people who I usually ignore. At first 2 of them texted me back.
heir names were Ben and Emily. Ben told me his life wasn’t going to great he tried to commit suicide before and he was thinking of it again. Emily told me that her dog died and she was really sad. I felt this was merely coincidence that the time I decided to talk to people something bad is happening. So feeling in the mood I talked to them both and Ben decided perhaps he will get some help I heard joy in his tone so I felt I helped him. Emily left the conversation smiling and said, “thank you for the good time.”
Ben texted me this morning that I had changed his life and he talked to his parents about help.
Emily has already told me that things really doing good until I talked to her so I changed her summer.
If you were wondering the other people responded and all are doing ok.
July 30th, 2009 at 11:59 am
Greetings to all from everyone here in Raleigh, N.C.!
I’m just starting to post flyers for a “Be the Change” Club here at East Wake Middle School. While I feel myself getting really excited about the potential, self-doubt/uncertainty/anxiety always seem to creep up…Regardless- I’m committed to bringing a positive change to our school and community! Any advice from those of you that have started a club or circle?
Many thanks-
R. Lewis
July 30th, 2009 at 11:09 am
Am organizing a drive for hygiene products for a local battered women’s shelter for Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October. My circle is going to begin collecting donations to help with this effort.
July 30th, 2009 at 11:08 am
Took my mom’s car to get washed without telling her what I was doing or why. She was sooo excited to have a clean car. She’s been putting that off.
July 30th, 2009 at 11:07 am
Have been communicating with a coordinator for Challenge Day in a local school, helping her come up with fundraising ideas.
July 29th, 2009 at 1:08 pm
I was getting some fajitas for lunch(i was hungry). As I was ordering I say a man that looked like he was hungry too…probably alot more hungry than I was. When asked if I wanted it for here or to go, I automatically said here, but quickly changed my ansewer to go. I asked for 2 forks and extra tortillas. I walked across the street and sat next to him. At first he looked at me like he had invaded my space and that he should get up. I quickly smiled and said,” would you like to share my fajitas?” he looked at me like I was an alien. I then lifted the two forks out of the bag and said “i have an extra fork and extra tortilla’s.” he then sat down and looked at me as he pulled his hood off and said with a smile” do you have sour cream?” I said”you bettcha!” we then shared a lunch and talked about things like his love of baseball and how he could have been pro is he didn’t get injured and got addicted to pain meds. I talked about my mother and family that have struggled with sddiction and told him that for some reason everything happens for a reason, even things that seem to suck. She laughed and said “well if I was pro I probably wouldn’t be having fajitas right now.” that made me giggle.
July 27th, 2009 at 3:14 pm
Since my mom is out of town I went over to her house and ironed all of my dads clothes. Just like he likes them. I also sent an email to my mom so she know dad is being well taken care of.
July 27th, 2009 at 3:12 pm
While taking my afternoon walk around my neighborhood I helped my elderly neighbor carry her groceries to her house. If you really knew me… you would know that I have lived in the same building for 3 years and have attempted to befriend her a number of times with no success. Thursday, I made an extra effort to be super nice and made a friend out of it.
July 24th, 2009 at 9:51 pm
Our challenge Day on campus was broken into 3 days. I was on a friday right before the weekend. I thought Challenge Day would be some repeat of some councilor telling us “its ok”. But after going, my life has changed drastically. I’ve made new friends, which I see as family now. Even when I fell to my knees crying, people where all around me to help me. This for sure is one of my greatest days I’ve lived. I send a warm thank you to everyone who has helped Challenge Day become such an amazing thing.
July 23rd, 2009 at 1:16 pm
Today during my staff meeting I got very vulnerable and talked about my financial situation and had a mini session. The act of change is that I had open space to feel my feelings, to cry, to be mad, to be angry, to be ashamed and to be embarrassed about that stress.
July 22nd, 2009 at 8:31 am
This morning as I was on my daily mission to fuel my inner-caffeine beast, a man asked me if I could help him out… he was trying to get a transit ticket and needed money. I smiled apologetically and said, “Sorry, I don’t have any cash” – because I didn’t (though, if I’m really being honest, that was convenient since I had a voice of ‘“NO, I don’t want to give you any money” echoing in my head).
As I walked away he smile and said “Ok… thank you…” And then, with a look of concern on his face: “…please don’t tell on me…”
While I’m not sure who he was worried I would tell – it really struck me.
How many times have *I* felt like I didn’t want to be “told on” for doing something. And more so, how often have I felt like I was doing something wrong, or something to be embarrassed about, when I was asking for help?
Inside the coffee shop, as I paid for my coffee with a “buy 5 get 1 free” stamp-card and used my debit card for my $3 muffin… I had a moment to notice how fortunate I am to be able to do just those things, and how I wished everyone was. I then remembered that in my wallet I had an unused transit ticket with $1.50 fare still on it. So, I chose to share my fortunateness.
As I walked out, I acted and I gave the man the transit ticket. His face lit up. He thanked me and thanked me… he told me the ticket would get him to a town 2 transit stops away. He had such gratitude for what seemed like such a short distance to me as I walked across the street to get into my car.
When I got to my car I turned back and saw him smiling in my direction. We caught eyes and he shouted “Thank you!”
July 9th, 2009 at 10:12 pm
the challenge day that i attended was almost three years ago with around 98 people attending.. in my small group there were four of us, a leader and three students. one student i’d known for years and was like a brother to me, the other student i’d gone to elementary with but never had been that close. the leader was a teacher at my school and a leader of many after school programs i was involved with. when we did the “if you really knew me” part of challenge day, the girl i’d gone to elementary with talked and talked and dug deeper and deeper with every word she said, which at the time was annoying since we weren’t doing the exercise correctly, but now is amazing. this girl shared things i’d never even fathomed about her and cried her entire being out in front of us. at that moment, she became a sister to me. we always talked in the hallways and were closer than we’d ever been in the 8 or so years we’d known one another. within the next month, she was killed and this challenge day has impacted me in so SO many ways, to this day. i am so thankful for the opportunity to break down our walls from one another and reveal what life really is for us. if this moment hadn’t happened, the relationship i had with her would be completely different. challenge day worked in me in may different, positive ways, but the fact that she was in MY group on THAT day was a blessing. thank you for the opportunity. thank you for doing all that you do in so many lives every day. God bless you, thank you Chris and Berneice.
July 4th, 2009 at 6:38 am
I’m a teacher. My wife and I are committed to becoming Chalenge Day facilitators. CD gives miricles to so many so quickly. Are there any in Rochester, NY area already? Who can I speak with?
June 29th, 2009 at 5:32 pm
My for Act of Change was to log in my AoC. I have been doing them, but not sharing them. I reconnected with some people that are dear to me, but whom I’ve allowed to be on the “back burner” for too long. I texted them and the conversations that followed we actuallly a gift to myself. What a nice surprise.
June 28th, 2009 at 10:41 am
hi once again im still the way i was after challenge day things changed for me i really am a new person once again thanks chris and jyoti i hope to see you again this year ( if wanna make the world a better place take a look at your self and make a CHANGE) R.I.P MICHEAL JACKSON
June 26th, 2009 at 11:16 am
The Be the change movement has really impacted my lifestyle. I’ve changed the way I behave, my attitude, etc. In fact, it has even inspired me to spread its message by making a blog about it. Please don’t hesitate to visit it, and please visit it often! Visit my blog at http://keepingup-247.blogspot.com.
Thanks!
June 21st, 2009 at 9:18 pm
I recently decided that there was no need for hate to run through my life and that i should elliminate all of what i could. I apologized to this girl I know and learned a few lessons. I feel great now that I did and everything is just falling into place and balancing out in my life lately.
June 21st, 2009 at 9:02 pm
Hi I was an 8th grade mentour at Lokelani and at the end of May the other mentours and myself went to a Challenge Day and helped Loren move the day along. It was amazing and I felt soo wonderful after the day was over. We got everybody to THAT PLACE and we just made a great change. It is one of the best memories I have now.
June 21st, 2009 at 7:38 pm
I am planning on doing a workshop for teens stress
June 12th, 2009 at 3:27 pm
I helped someone into their car outside of Target
June 8th, 2009 at 10:55 am
its so awesome
June 8th, 2009 at 9:03 am
I spent time with my son volunteering and giving at a recent silent auction to raise money for his school to have a Challenge Day. I am grateful for my job, which gives me the priviledge of working with children. I feel very lucky to have a loving family and a safe working environment.
June 3rd, 2009 at 9:53 pm
Amy and I combined to get a student down to San Fransisco twice to compete at the Calif Culinary Institute. This is a young lady that has become homeless during this school year, her senior year. She was unable to practice her recipes for the actual competition, yet came in second out of nine students and won a $5000 scholarship! My husband and I have decided to give two $100 scholarships to students that have gone the extra mile. This girl is getting one of those scholarships.
June 3rd, 2009 at 10:55 am
The day I spent at Challenge Day, someone asked me how my day was….I’d like to share with you my reply: It was remarkable. I almost feel guilty for getting so much out of it,
knowing that it was for the kids.
Allow me to share a little with you:
I have two grown sons. We have really, really good relationships. For
many years as I traveled my own personal growth path I have wondered
sometimes what my gifts are, what I am intrinsically good at…where my
value is. Others told me that I was a great mom. The thing is…I
didn’t know what that meant. I didn’t fully realize how big that was. I
didn’t honor it for being as big a gift as it is. (I wished I could
sing- go figure…)
After being in the room that day I realized just how valuable being a
good parent is. Not everyone’s parents listen, not everyone’s parents
even care, not everyone’s parents love them unconditionally. In short,
it made me realize what a huge gift my kids are to me and me to them.
Standing in that room, with the opportunity to share ‘mother love’ to
some who had not had much was, for me priceless. I was told, “I have
never felt so loved” by a student I had known for only hours. Talk about
validation. Wow. Like I said..it was remarkable. I hope you see that love flows both ways on days like that.
Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts and feelings with you. I feel very
blessed to have been included in the program that day.
Sincerely,
Sheila Lopipero
June 3rd, 2009 at 9:35 am
I smiled and greeted all people I passed yesterday. I hugged a girl on my daughters softball team who was sad. I let my daughter stay up late to watch the UW womens softball team win the national title.
June 3rd, 2009 at 4:38 am
I volunteered as one of the Adults for Challenge Day for two separate years. Each time I attended the event I learned something about myself and the youth of this day and age, I’m (50) so I learned young people have greater challenges but we all can help one another with LOVE & UNDERSTANDING. The change I have made is to do as many free workshops for youth on assertive and effective communication.
June 1st, 2009 at 6:20 pm
I went and spoke to my old friend, Chief Jimison, yesterday about challenge day. We are a small town with a great, community-minded chief. I am sure he will help us support the program. Besides, I wanted him to be proud that Kenston has the world’s greatest anti-bullying program!
May 31st, 2009 at 12:37 pm
Hi! I was inspired by the Be the Change Movement to make my own blog, which I stared today! Please take a look at it. My blog is at http://keepingup-247.blogspot.com.
May 29th, 2009 at 11:56 am
We had a new neighbor move into the apartment complex and I gave her a warm welcome. She seemed pleased that someone took the time to talk to her and welcome her to her new home.
May 29th, 2009 at 8:15 am
I went to go and visit elderly people that I don’t know in a local nursing home. i sat with an elderly lady while she ate her lunch. We played cards and I listened her to tell me her entire life story. her story fascinated me and it felt good to be there for her so that she wasn’t so lonely.
May 28th, 2009 at 12:00 am
I have been telling EVERYONE about Challenge Day and encouraging them to volunteer to be part of it–especially men. Well, I was sitting next to this guy on the way home from the Next Steps workshop and he was sharing with me about his sons and I of course shared about Next Steps and Challenge Day. He was pretty psyched about it and wanted to volunteer, so I gave him the website. We talked about him relocating to a new state because of a job and when he told me the job, I said, “oh, my best friend works in that field, but Washington is a huge state for tech jobs and she works for a small company.” He said, “just out of curiosity, what’s her name?” I told him and it turns out that he works at the same small company and he just met her last Friday AND it happened to be her birthday that day. So I passed a hug from me to her through him. It was awesome and reminded me of Yvonne saying “what if there are no accidents, and everything happens for a reason?” I am starting to believe that more and look for the possibilities!
May 25th, 2009 at 9:50 am
my name is Gabe Brown challenge day at my school in chino valley i used to be a bully i am no more that person and i have never been happier in my life since that day that is the best program ever.
May 23rd, 2009 at 4:27 pm
I made a donation to a young ex-gang member selling products - He was very grateful
May 22nd, 2009 at 10:32 am
My daughter experienced bullying at her school by her teacher just a few weeks ago. Instead of ignoring it, I went to the teachers and principal and addressed the issue with them. While I also lost my temper ( a bit!), I also could not sit on the side lines and allow this type of behaviour to continue. I noticed, chose and acted on what I felt to be right. When you see behaviour like this, it is important to bring it to the attention of those who are behaving this way, as they may not even be aware that their words hurts as much as they do. Such was the case with this particular teacher. Kudo’s to the teachers out there that actively make a postive contribution to our childrens lives!
May 21st, 2009 at 1:38 pm
2 days ago I had challenge day at my school. Sela and Kekoa were my leaders. Through the excercises i learned many new things about myself and about the people around me. I am so grateful for this oppourtunity.
May 19th, 2009 at 7:25 pm
i have always beem mean to people but ever since challenge day came to whitmer high school it changed me in so many ways thank you.
May 19th, 2009 at 8:50 am
Before we had even had challenge day at our school, I knew that a change needed to be made in our community. Ever since elementary school, people have picked on me for various reasons and it became worse in middle school when I let everyone know that I was a lesbian. I was called harsh names, objects were thrown at me, I was bullied, people hit me, and even my family gave me a little of the cold shoulder. But the day that Challenge Day appeared, I knew I’d be okay. So far, I’ve changed opinions about myself and about my family and friends. And I am so grateful that I, as well as others, could enjoy this experience. One day, I’d like to be apart of the Challenge Day committe.
May 16th, 2009 at 7:55 pm
Hi there :].
My name is Rhiannon, and my school had a challenge day a little while ago (March 16, 2009). After completing Challenge Day, I have noticed that I’m not scared to come to school anymore, because people now say “Hello” instead of “Freak”. The change just isn’t in everyone else, but in myself as well. I had always assumed that some of the “popular” kids had everything they could have ever wanted. With the way they looked down upon me like a fungus, how could I not think such?
We now see one another in a different light. Almost as if we have reached an understanding.
Instead of harsh tones of voice, and terms I’d rather not say, I hear normal voices and my name being called in the hallways now. I don’t think I’ve ever been this happy before. During the entire program, there was a man who had volunteered to do the Challenge Day program at my school who stood near or next to me. I would like to thank him, tell him that he made all the difference in the world, and that he saved my life. I know with the memory I have of him standing next to me during the most painful of times, I have nothing to fear.
Thank you, Randy.
I love you so much. Please don’t ever forget me.
I won’t ever forget you.
May 14th, 2009 at 12:49 am
At Mount Shasta I found 60 plus ber bottles down the hill and decided to clean them up - it felt great!
May 12th, 2009 at 2:43 pm
i had a great time at challange day… i learned alot about other people… and saw things in diffrent perspectives!!! great thing i think rv shouuld keep it!
May 12th, 2009 at 12:43 pm
In its first year as a club as an club, and throughout the school year, they have helped create change in their community and in their school. In October, the club raised awareness of School Violence Awareness Week by creating posters and posting them around the school. In November, the club helped oversee MixIt Up Day. During lunches on this day, students we told to sit with those who had the same birthday as them in an effort to help people meet new people. In December, The Club helped raise awareness of Human Rights and to respect everyone’s rights.
May 12th, 2009 at 12:36 pm
Ambika, along with some other members of teh Be The Chnage CLub passsed out flyers about Being the Change and the Founder’s Day Carnival. These ladies alerted the people of Plainsboro about our club abd helped increase awareness of the club’s message.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:47 am
Wow….is all i can say for Challenge Day…Not only did i see it on T.v but i got to experince it…..TWICE!!!! I’m From Winnipeg Manitoba And i’m 17 years old…I Go to Gordon Bell High School its an inner city school so there are alot of gangs around…Gordon Bell has over 60 languages spoken everyday in the school, we also have neer 1000 students with different cultures and backrounds…not everyone got along untill challenge day…again..WOW!! I Never Knew i could feel sooooo good about myself and not be scared…i didnt know how much me and my friends had in commom..i was evon more surprised when people who i didnt like or who didnt like me crossed the line with me in the final activity…Challenge Day Works….And One Day I’m Going To Be A Challenge Day Leader…I Want Kids To Feel As Good As I Did…Man I Cried So Much That Day…And Even The Kids That I Thought Didnt Care Cried…The Morning Of Challenge Day…I Didnt Want To Go But I Did Anyway…As Other Students Said “Screw This” i had to watch them leave and go have fun…but little did i know the adventures of challenge day…Now I Feel bad for the students who walked away from Challenge Day…They will never understand the atmosphere in Gordon Bell…and they missed out on What is the best day of my life….So Thank You To Eveyone Who Makes Challenge Day What It Is…I Hope Everyone Can One Day Live In A World Free Of Hate And Harm…Love And Tranquility is the world i one day want to live in…<3
May 11th, 2009 at 5:31 am
Yesterday, for Mothers Day, my family went to the Cincinati Reds game. I was finishing up washing my hands and i was getting my paper towels. This elderly lady, with a cane was standing next to me. She didnt have the strength to pull down the lever of the paper dispensor so i did it for her.
it made my day knowing i could help someone else.
May 8th, 2009 at 3:57 am
After the challenge day, it really opend my heart,eyes, and mind. I am ready to be the biger person and help my friends and family and people i do not know. Two big changes was one of the students at my school came up to me and we used to be best friends since 5th grade then stop because she was hurting me and herself. She came up and said sorry for that. Another girl I said sorry too for hurting her for few years because she hurt me by trying to get to my boyfriend who I am still with and still in love with. I said sorry to her for the harsh things I’ve said. I am ready to be more friendly person and forgive even though forgiving is a strong and hardest thing to do. Thank you Berenice Meza-Aguiar and Sean Flikke for everything you have did and thank you for giving us your time to come out here and change our thoughts and act.
May 7th, 2009 at 8:42 am
Recently I’ve noticed how I’ve been seeing things in negative perspectives, but I’m changing how I see things and look at everything more positivly. Over the week that I made this change, I noticed I feel much happier and like things aren’t weighing me down. I feel more energetic and connected to people now. =]
May 7th, 2009 at 6:58 am
I had a heart to heart conversation with someone that I really trust.
May 7th, 2009 at 6:57 am
I’m finishing up a total of 480 volunteer hours at an internship. 180 were completed at a local high school and the other 300 were completed in an adolescent substance abuse therapuetic community. It was more than just a learning experience for me. Every day that I went to my internship I felt like I could do something to make a difference in the lives of adolescents.
May 7th, 2009 at 5:24 am
Challenge Day is such a life changing experience. I learned how to open up to others who seem so different but are so much alike in many ways.Expecially because of the diversity in the school, It gave us a chance to bond and connect not only through our emotions but our life experiences. When I left challenge day, i felt so much better about myself and about others, I consider other peoples feelings and I am more comfortable knowing that I am not alone. Everyone deserves a chance to do this activity and it definatley changes the outlook of peoples minds. I very much appreciated it and i would love to do it again.
May 7th, 2009 at 4:55 am
Challgance Day was the Best day ever i really liked it and it seems like my school is acting better ^^
May 6th, 2009 at 5:29 pm
what a life changing experience this was, i was depressed for a long time and seriously considering ending my life, thankyou to sean and bernice for giving me the gift of challenge day and making me feel happy again.
May 6th, 2009 at 5:05 pm
Be the Change has completely turned me around and made me realize that I may not see my friends and family the next day so I have to treat them nice so that I can remember all the fun times we had together. Be the Change gave me a whole new perspective on life. Be the Change also allowed me to see that there are people out there with the same problems as I have and that makes me feel good to know that I have peers and fellow students that know exactly what I am going through. I will continue to Be the Change!!
May 6th, 2009 at 2:57 pm
At first I was not sure that participating for a second year in a row was going to have the same value that it did last year. My Challenge Day experience this year at Rancocas Valley exceeded my expectations. Thank you to Jennifer and Chris for being the best Challenge Day People ever! I have a daughter that is a freshman at RV and I heard a lot of things from my “family” yesterday at Challenge Day that I know affect my daughter as well and I can only hope that Challenge Day is back in 2010! Our kids deserve it! Many parents could definitely benefit from it as well! Thank you for one of my best days ever! RV and Challenge Day are a perfect combination!
May 5th, 2009 at 9:23 am
I went on the choir and band retreat over the weekend and there was this one kid everyone was making fun of so he was by himself a lot so I stuck up for him when people were being mean. When my friend and I saw him sitting down alone, we went over and talked to him for a bit and invited him to play football with us. He opened up to us about his problems and we sat there listening to him letting him know that we cared. It totally made his weekend to know that someone does care and I was so glad we were there for him.
April 30th, 2009 at 7:58 pm
after challange day our school has made a be the change club…. lots of people came. we got t-shirts and we now have free hug days and a change wall where the students get to say what the belive,want to change and what they are thinking.challange day has been positive at our school and when i grow up i would love to work their………..BE THE CHANGE!!!
April 30th, 2009 at 8:02 am
{YOU HAVE TO WANT HELP TO GET HELP} THANKS YOU EVERY ONE THE WAS AT CHALLENGE DAY EVEN THE STUDENTS AND THE PEOPLE THAT DID CHALLENGE DAY AND {MS.RICE}
April 30th, 2009 at 8:01 am
TODAY YOU SHOULD BE PTOUD OF YOUR SELF YOU SHOULD NOT let anyone bring you down. so smile not frown. laugh not cry. if you have to laugh @your saelf not @ other people because thats not nice
April 30th, 2009 at 7:57 am
AND I WANT TO SAY THANK YOU TO MS. RICE BECAUSE SHE IS A GOOD LADY SHE HELP PEOPLE NO MATTER WHAT BUT YOU GIT 2 WANT HELP TO GET HELP. THANK YOU TO THE STAFF IN CHALLENGE DAY YALL HELPED ME ALOT. YALL 3 IS GOOD PEOPLE.
April 30th, 2009 at 7:54 am
AND TODAY I HELPED THE HOMELESS AND THE OLD PEOPLE. I FEEL PROUD
April 30th, 2009 at 7:51 am
If you want 2 go 2 challenge day you should go i go to jhon marshall and people always try 2 bring me down but do i let them? no i do not they make me feel good not bad they only talking about me because they is hurting in the inside and need 2 let it out some way but it okay when they do that they start crying and i always make them feel better. People always ask me why do i always try to make people feel better i do it cause they is like my family and i love them like family even if they dont love me i would still love them next year i will be in the 12th grade and i would still help people if they need me or if they just want to talk about their problems i will always help. {REMEMBER GOD LOVES YOU}
April 30th, 2009 at 7:43 am
i am in the 11th went 2 challenge day all i got 2 say is i had a good time. they changed me alot and they helped me changed other people. i loved that i did a good thing to help change people i never knew i could did that but i put my mind 2 it and i did it it was hard but whan i did it i kept goning. i even changed my mother and dad. my dad just got out of jail and was about 2 go back but i changed his mind he was crying and i was 2 because he need to change his life and he need to be in my life because i miss him so much i cry every day cause i cant see him and that really hurted me alot. well thats all i can say. [good bye ] [REMEMBER]YOU CAN BE THE CHANGE just [BELIEVE] in yourself and it would happen. never say never.
April 27th, 2009 at 8:19 pm
I walked by a man hungry for food and bought him an extra sandwich, chips and a drink he was elated
April 25th, 2009 at 4:54 pm
At our middle school in Plainsboro, NJ, we’ve started a “be the change” club. We give the students challenges every day, like giving high fives or giving hugs. Well, one of the days, we gave a challenge saying to put post-it notes on peoples lockers with nice comments. As soon as I step out of the classroom, i see a wonderful world of colored paper :). Some said “I love you”, some said “have a nice day”, and some even boldly said “Luv yo’ hair!” Our students made us proud (*sniff*). And not only that, we even cleaned up the post its so that the custodians wouldn’t have such a big job to do! This was truly a day of positive change.
April 25th, 2009 at 3:44 pm
I ussed to judge others. I feal really bad about that. Thanks to challenge day I will never do that agian.
April 24th, 2009 at 12:29 pm
Thanks Challenge day for everything. You really made a life changing experience for me. I learned alot mostly to appreciate what you have!
Thank you KeaKoa and Kathie
April 23rd, 2009 at 8:21 pm
hi there. my name is keith. i had challenge day today and it was the best day i have ever had. it was the best expierence i could ask for. it changed my whole look on life. im tired of bein told who i am and wat i am. i am me and nobody else. everyone who went learned to drop that water level and be themselves. i’d do it again in a heartbeat if i had the chance. every student should have a chance 2 expierence something like this. yea yea yea men dont cry. actually every man in that room had tears in their eyes. teachers and students had a chance to attend. everyone who went can really say that they had a great time listening 2 everyone. i for one feel alot closer to everyone in that room. challenge day is a day to go and be urself. drop the mask that everyone sees and let them see the real you. i love all of you each in ur own way.
April 23rd, 2009 at 6:30 pm
I went to challenge day Wednesday at Terrebonne high in Houma La. This day was one of the most emotional, but best days of my life. I never felt so open and close to almost absolute strangers. This Day gave me courage that i never thought i had to talk about problems that i fill in to my “balloon”. Our leaders Joyti and Chris were great. I feel like after that day our school is going to try to do so much better in the sense of helping each other despite the color of their skin or the way they look. I am a witness to some of the changes that has been going on in our school since challenge day. The atmosphere is a million times better because people are trying to know each other past that water line….past that image we show on the out side. challenge day is one of the best things I have ever experienced in my life….
April 23rd, 2009 at 3:34 pm
i attended challenge day on April 23 2009 i really loved it i also appreciate Chris an Jyoti coming down to my school to make a major change in my fellow peers i am gladly to thank you once again for the fun day we had an i just want to say i am going to change i notice that I’m already changing because my water level is dropping more so thanks and remember to BE THE CHANGE to anyone that’s reading this .
April 22nd, 2009 at 6:09 pm
Today, April 22, 2009, was a changing day in my life. Challenge Day was at my school, Ellender High School. It was so great. It changed my life as well as my peers’. The activities that we did and the things we talked about really helped me open up to people. It also showed me how to listen better to other people. This experience makes me want to go help people like me and other people who are hurting. I just want to thank the Challenge Day people so much, they are a big inspiration for me.
I would love to be a part of you guys’ group and help people like you guys do.
Love Always,
Natasha Klingman
Sophmore at Ellender High School.
C:
April 22nd, 2009 at 11:23 am
I have quite a few… I bought my friend who is struggling a train ticket to come visit me. A taxi driver gave me a ride to work when I had forgotten my wallet. A drummer in a band I like put me on the guest list for his show and asked me to help out on Warped Tour… Yay!
April 22nd, 2009 at 9:33 am
We think that we need to have more support from schools, teachers and councilours. we think that by teaching all students the effects and causes by student bullying will open up our communitys eyes, and to show our community what this really does to our lives, and how we can stop it. although the community knows about bullying teachers never take any action or pay any attention into what there students are going through, and how much better they would be able to accomplish and move on from these things if someone would notice choose or act. we think that we could start a session for students of all ages, for them to confide to someone with experience from being bullyed in kindergaten to highschool. thank you for listening.
Lenette Doskoch and Taryn Brown
April 22nd, 2009 at 6:47 am
stop bullying
April 21st, 2009 at 12:24 pm
I loved challenge day Emzima and Seako were the best people I ever met. They taught me alot of things and I made the poem beneethe as a pre thing and the day was actually like that so i hope that other schools can enjoy the day like our school.. Thank you for challenge day :). It was the best and it really made a change in me….
April 21st, 2009 at 12:19 pm
Challenge day.By javairia
A day that we had for the first time and things you never knew that will blow your mind.
Bullying is what it took for us to notice and racism is a part of why we go through this.
Things that we been through that you think would soon get old, the words are switched and a new reason to start is told, gossip is treasured and is seems as worthy as gold, every thing seems noticed to you don’t judge a book by its cover, because the title is bold. Will the truth about some of our peers unfold? Will everything we have endured go to waist or be sold? Will the meanness in our hearts warm up or stay cold? Life shall be cherished each and everyday. Bullying and hate is why some kids take their own away sometimes even another! So will this kill some of the hate we have for each other? Will it just build up inside? Would you do what ever the person you fear says and ride? Will you go with the flow and let life guide. Or endure the worst? When all of what the person had inside blew up and he burst, because the last time can also be the first. So will you ever learn? Have you ever been bullied so much that inside it burned? How would you feel if it actually was your turn? If we where all treated equally respect would really be earned. Maybe we can gain respect to and bulling should be the last thing on our mind to go through. Maybe we should only raise our hands for help and not to put up a fight, because at the end of the tunnel it is always usually bright. So when we close our eyes it’s not out of freight it’s to go to sleep and actually hope to wake up the next night. Lets add a smile and make each day worth while, because your unique in your own since of style.
April 20th, 2009 at 8:48 pm
I recently participated in a Challenge Day workshop. It opened my eyes up as and adult and parent. I will definitely treat my children better because of this. I am still thinking of ways I can better this planet. I have volunteered at my churches youth group to encourage them to Be the Change.
Thank you
Trevor Goforth
April 20th, 2009 at 8:22 pm
This is has been by far the most amazing experience I have ever been given the opportunity to participate in. My two facilitators, Pam and Sean are some of the craziest most real people I have ever met and I reallt appreciate them for stepping up to the challenge and becoming a part of this changing movement. So many emotions are all tangled up in this program and it’s amazing to see the way people react to it. Certain activities moved people that I had no idea it would. Crossing the Line was by far the most powerful activity our school did. To watch as my “best friends” crossed the line and knowing that I never knew that about them made me helpless. So many times I wanted to run across and just squeeze them and remind them that no matter what I will always be those ears to listen and will always have a shoulder for them to cry on. It’s truly a blessing to have been given this wonderful opportunity and I thank you all for being such amazing people and believing that we can change the world!
April 20th, 2009 at 7:27 pm
today the challenge day program came to my school, this day changed my life! it taught me that i need to live my life 100% real because tomorrow is not a promise. this couldn’t have happen on a better day because in our freshmen class we just lost a student and it made us all realize that life is a privlage and it can be taken from you in a blink of an eye. the two people,sean and pam were our councilors and they are my new heros! thank you so much for everything!!!
April 20th, 2009 at 4:04 pm
Hello , i just wanted to say thanks for coming to our skool (Houma Jr. High). As you Know we really enjoyed yall. we hope you come back and vist us again. i also promise to make a change in my life. It’s because of yall , thats why i made the change , because that let me know that there are people like you that cares for us. And just to let you know our team the (Care Bears ) really won that beach ball game . i love you guys very much.
April 19th, 2009 at 3:29 pm
I just wanted to give a shout out to Rich and Yvonne, because they work they do is just so amazing and life changing, it truly does save lives, I know it turned mine around and got me to see the light in life. So keep it up, you two are true role models of perfect human beings.
April 17th, 2009 at 8:55 pm
Challenge Day changed my life.I attended challenge day not knowing what it was. I sort of thought it was just little gym activities. When I first realized what was happening I thought it was soo stupid during the beginging and I didn’t beleive I would leave my school gym any different. After the entire day I learned so much and have a total new outlook on life. I am 15 and I will never be the same person ever again. I have been way more kinder to peaople. The day after I went to so many people, gave them a big hug, and told them things like “i love you”, “you are an amazing person”, etc. I realized then that people saw that as weird. They asked me why I was doig this. Kindness is not a normal act. I need to work on changing my self so i can be “real” also I am going to change the way I treat others and make sure everyone knows im here to listen. I hope that maybe one less person will feel left out or hurt because they know that I care for them and belive in them and would never delibertly talk behind there back in a mean way. Change is not easy and change does take time but i wil BE THE CHANGE!! I hope every person gets to have the experience I did because it was an amazing one!
April 16th, 2009 at 5:33 pm
challenge day came to your school on april 15, 16, 17th, and everyone was going wow this is dumb, but really it was the most amazing experience ever. you found out that you were not the only one and that people care, there are people you would never even think you has something in common there, but in the end you found out you did. Jon and Devon you are the best and thank you for coming to LDSS.
April 15th, 2009 at 6:09 pm
I just finished this program at my school……….WOW! This is an amazing opportunity for EVERYBODY to really change the way people act at your school. This had a huge impact on me, the way I look at people, the way I act around others, what I show about my life. In my school after 250 People did this program there was 1 negative comment….1!!! The most important activity was the “Power Shuffle” or Cross The Line If… this really showed everybody about others and even yourself! In that 30 minutes I learned so much about myself it made me cry because of what I didn’t even realize was true about my life. If your school is even thinking about this program it is SUCH a good way to spend money. I hope that I have a chance to be part of this program again soon. It has changed how everybody at my school. We had people who were the “Non-Emotional can’t change my mind I’m the best your not etc. kids apologizing to others in front of 130 on a MICROPHONE!!! Such a life changing experience I recommend it to any and everybody!!
Cooper Gould
Sisters Middle School, Sisters, Oregon
April 15th, 2009 at 5:53 pm
JON and DEVON came to Listowel Ontario and did an Amazing job. Challenge Day really changed my life,and i am sure eveyone that was there
April 14th, 2009 at 6:46 pm
Challenge Day changed my life be cause I no now that I’m not alone and there are people out there going throw the this in my life and I’m not one for crying but to day I cryed and it felt good and it’s true crying does make you stronger and one of there girls there Jennifer was AWESOME!!!.
April 13th, 2009 at 7:47 pm
I took a dollar….and turned it into ten dimes…..then I changed it into 20 nickels…then 100 pennies….now THAT’S Change !!!!!
April 10th, 2009 at 5:37 pm
I love that CD gives me hope everyday that the world is bigger than possible it is forsure. The young peope who are living 100 % fully expressed inspire me everyday. My babies are in the most loving hands. My act of change was telling one of my agency maintenace staff “you are outstanding, I love how you take care of our residents homes”. he laughed but I know his heart smiled too.
April 10th, 2009 at 12:11 pm
The experiences I had at challenge day were fun!!! As soon as I stepped in the door I knew that I had something in me that would change forever. Before challenge day I used to judge people by the way they look, the way they dressed, the way they do things. And I thought challenge day was going to be a boring day but I learned how to judge people the right way, And not to make fun of people anymore. You never no what someone goes through at home so you shouldn’t make them feel bad!!! I remand challenge day to anyone who steps foot in middle and high school!!!!!
April 10th, 2009 at 12:08 pm
Challenge Day has changed my life a lot. It has changed the way I act and it has also changed the way I treat people. It has made me a better person. I’ll remember everything that happened at Challenge Day, because it all opened my eyes. This experience taught me to not judge people or talk about them because you don’t know what they go through in their life. When I was at Challenge Day the part I enjoyed the most was when we got to sit around in a circle with our group and tell about our life because it helped me out a lot. From this point on im going to be a better person and stay that way.
April 10th, 2009 at 12:07 pm
Challenge day on Friday march 27th was a great experience for me I talked to new people and had a lot of fun and it made me fill good about myself I was really scared at first because of all the people I don’t like to be around people at all I fear being judged or humiliated but after my experience at challenge day I fill better about myself
April 10th, 2009 at 12:06 pm
My name is Kasey pile I used to make fun of people and hit them and I was just really mean but something happen on the 27th of march the second best thing happen to me challenge it made a big impact on me I don’t cry much but challenge day change my life just listening to everyone express there feelings was very touching and emotional. The thing I will remember the most is the hugging scene. I’ve done things different like apologized to every one I was rude and mean to I aint made fun of no one since. From this point on I’m not going to make fun of anyone because I really feel changed the thing I enjoyed the most was the games well every thing I enjoyed.
April 10th, 2009 at 12:05 pm
My name is Kasey pile I used to make fun of people and hit them and I was just really mean but something happen on the 27th of march the second best thing happen to me challenge it made a big impact on me I don’t cry much but challenge day change my life just listening to everyone express there feelings was very touching and emotional. The thing I will remember the most is the hugging scene. I’ve done things different like apologized to every one I was rude and mean to I aint made fun of no one since. From this point on I’m not going to make fun of anyone because I really feel changed the thing I enjoyed the most was the games well every thing I enjoyed.
April 10th, 2009 at 12:04 pm
Hi my name is Jimmy Wardrip before I went to challenge day I had a lot of enemy’s from were I’ve heard people talking s***. Now that I went to challenge day I went and apologize to my enemy’s so that I won’t have to watch my back or if one dies then I don’t have to put my self down from not saying “I’m sorry “or smiling now I know that I don’t have to worry about putting my self down.
April 10th, 2009 at 12:04 pm
I attended Challenge day on March 27. Challenge day helped me not to be mean to other people. On Challenge day there was a lot of emotions. From this point in I’m going to be a nicer person. At Challenge day I enjoyed all the games we played. It was really a good experience for me.
April 10th, 2009 at 12:03 pm
I attended Challenge day on March 27. Challenge day helped me not to be mean to other people. On Challenge day there was a lot of emotions. From this point in I’m going to be a nicer person. At Challenge day I enjoyed all the games we played. It was really a good experience for me.
April 10th, 2009 at 12:01 pm
I went to Challenge day it changed my life. I was sick as a dog with a 104 temp. But I wouldn’t change anything in the world. That day meant the world to me. I started changing by going up to the group of girls that bullied me all year. And told them sorry 4 calling them names be hide there backs and I ask them if we could start over. And they said yea.. So now my school life is good. It isn’t as hard as it was at the beginning of the year. I LOVE CHALLENGE DAY.
April 10th, 2009 at 11:07 am
The thing that I’ll remember the most is the line game.Because just seeing your really close friends crossing the line.You did’nt had no clue that happen to them.And seeing other people cross the line with you.I thought I was all alone.But when I saw people cross with me.I knew then I was’nt alone and thers other people going through worse things then I’am.What I really got out of it was that you should never judge people how they dress and the color of their skin.
April 10th, 2009 at 10:46 am
After my challenge day experience, I started changing the way I acted towards people, if I saw someone who looked weird or wore something stupid or was part of a cliché I would take about them and judge them before knowing them. At challenge day I saw people I didn’t like and it was awkward when sitting by them in the little groups but after I listened to their stories I felt bad for them, I also hated myself for making fun of them because I only added on the pain they were feeling. Now im not one to cry in public I mostly hold my feelings in but during challenge day while doing the power line I was trying to hold in crying but then everyone kept patting my back and then someone told me it was ok to cry and then I started crying a little. When we first arrived at the center I never expected anyone to cheer for us it was a weird feeling because I’ve never had anyone cheer for me and it was new thing for me. There was a lot of weird stuff that happened like hugging random people and then sitting on like 5 peoples laps but it was all fun. Ever since that day I haven’t made fun of anyone, judged anyone, I’ve talked to anyone I seen in the halls, even hug and wave to random people even take the chance to get to know someone I’ve never met. I want to make a change and I challenge anyone who goes to challenge day to try and make a change as well and if you haven’t been to it go.
April 10th, 2009 at 9:50 am
I wouldn’t say that Challenge day was the best day of my life but it was a huge eye opener. The line game made me realize things that were going on and I didn’t think happened that much in our school. I didn’t say that much but so many kids had some pretty sad stories that made me think about how much harder their childhood was they were beaten and abused as children and they really didn’t have a childhood now there made fun of because of it. The color of their skin or how they look. I’ve said thing that I shouldn’t told people. Very body’s a human they all need a friend so I going to be that friend.
April 10th, 2009 at 9:41 am
Challenge Day was an amazing experience for me. It showed me I was not alone in life, school, and homes everyday challenges, and how things can and will change. The thing I remember most was crossing the line and having my friends and classmates right by my side, not knowing until that moment that they have some of the same or similar experiences as me. And looking across the line at some of the other participants showing you respect for who you are and knowing that these people actually cared, really changed my perspective on life. I’ve learned to not be fake and drop your water line and let people see the real you. You don’t need to judge people by the clothes they wear or the color of the skin, you should look at them for who they are and proudly choose to be.
April 10th, 2009 at 9:40 am
What I will remember most about challenge day would be the time when we where just dancing and having fun because I am not a very social person its not that I don’t want to be social its just I don’t know how and going to challenge day really helped that out. The second thing is the line game because I got a chance to see that I am not alone in my struggles and that other people care and the third thing was the family groups because I was able to talk and just be myself .I don’t know how well it changed everyone else but I know it had a real impact in my life. I know id like to do it again
April 10th, 2009 at 9:19 am
My experience at challenge day was very exciting I enjoyed it very much and I believe everyone that went also enjoyed it. I think that everyone in this school and everyone in all the schools around the US should experience challenge day. Challenge day was a very special day to me and I wish my life could be like that every day and I believe that everyone would say the same thing.
As im typing this to you I am remembering the deep and heavy emotion that everyone one experienced. I also remember some f the simple activities that lead us all to expressing our emotion and dropping our waterline.
Kevin Stocton
April 10th, 2009 at 9:18 am
Challenge Day had just come to our school. I just thought it was a day out of school. When I first walked in and saw that everybody standing up and yelling, I thought, “What am I getting myself into?” After we had to start crossing the line, that’s when it started to get to me, some people in here are just like me. I though I had a rough life and then everybody started sharing their stories about being beaten, just stuff I didn’t know about other people and my friends. Challenge Day really changed my life.
April 10th, 2009 at 9:05 am
March 27,2009
I walked into the room and people that I didn’t know were screaming and yelling and giving us high fives as we walked in the room to sit down. I thought that I was going to regret this but then once we started playing games and getting into our groups when we started discussing our feelings I learned more about people that I never dreamed would happen to them. I became closer to people that I knew and didn’t know. It was amazing everyone started crying and they apologized to people that they had hurt in the past. I learned a lot of things at challenge day like not to make first impressions on some that you have never met. And that if someone tries to put me down to keep my head held high and not let them bother me. It has changed my life so much and that I know that I shouldn’t talk about people behind their back and that if I do that to them then it might happen to me. I wish that everyone that went to challenge day would at least try to change the way everyone looked at people, bullying, teasing, and the groups of people that talk about everyone. I really enjoyed challenge day and I will never forget it in my life. If I ever get the chance to do this activity again I will take it in a heartbeat. And I hope that in the future when we have challenge day it will change more people. Our leaders were amazing they were Angela Aguitar and Chris Foster. They were amazing leaders at our challenge day.
April 10th, 2009 at 9:04 am
Challenge day has affected my life. How I look at people, how I look at myself, and how people look at me. My most remembered was when we plated “Cross the line if…” because they have touched a lot of people that had problems in there life. We should care for them. The part I enjoyed the most would be all the games we played. Challenge day has made a huge impact on my life and I wish I could so this again.
April 10th, 2009 at 9:02 am
To me challenge day had a huge impact. It was a wonderful experience and a great day of my life. What I will remember the most is that by the end of the day I felt like I could go up to anyone in that room and tell them about m, like just my problems and what I’ve been through, and they would actually care. And to think walking in challenge day I hardly knew half the people.
What I have tried to do differently is to be more positive and fun to be around. I don’t want to judge or talk bad about people whether I know or don’t know them, since challenge day. Because you really don’t know them or they’re life and the things they’ve been through. Now, walking down the hall I don’t try to avoid contact, but instead I give smiles to the people walking by. Because I know it makes me feel good when someone smiles at me for no reason. It just makes my day a little better. From this point on my goal is to stop judging completely! No criticizing or going by first impressions. I know this would make me a better person if I could do this.
I enjoyed the entire day, but mostly the end of the day, when people got extremely real with each other. The stories of what people have been through really got to me. I didn’t realize that there were actually people that I know and go to school with that have all these problems you wouldn’t ever expect. It was amazing.
April 10th, 2009 at 8:24 am
I’m Abigail Willett from Breckinridge County High School. My Class went to challenge day March 27th 2009, Challenge Day was the best day of my life. Challenge Day impacted me by giving me a better outlook on things like think before I talk, watch my attitude, and treat others the way I would want to be treated. And the most awesomeness thing that I remembered was when Ms. Angela (The Leader) called my name saying I was a sweetheart and I came out of my shell quickly. Which at home I don’t hear that. And things I have done differently were I showed people that I will be there if they need me and have more confidence. I haven’t made any changes yet but I would like to. And from this point on I’m going to respect people and listen when people need to talk. And I want to say Thank You for the experience to Mrs. Heather Rogers, Angela & Chris for making this happen for me. Because they are the best people and I can trust them for anything, and I enjoyed being there with people I didn’t even know and became good friends with them. So Thank You.
April 10th, 2009 at 8:12 am
Challenge day showed me that people at school are going through the same thing that I am. And it showed me that I’m not alone. Since challenge day I’ve shared myself more. Before I keep it all in because I was afraid so when challenge day came it was a good time to share what was being held in.
April 10th, 2009 at 8:11 am
It had an impact on me when we done the cross the line game because it let me see some of my friend and what they had to go thought in their life time that I did not have to go through in my life and it also helped me because I am not as mean to my sister as I use to be. The thing I will rember most is to keep a smile on my face and try to let my friends know that if they need to talk to me if they need to talk to me because I’m easy to talk to. I have told my sister I love her lot more also I have not been as mean to her as I use to be. My friends now know that they can talk to me at any time they need to. I tell my sister I love her a lot more than I use to do. From this point on I am going to walk down the hall way with a smile on my face, also tell my family I love them a lot more because my mom and dad are still together. I enjoyed the games and the family groups because you could express your emotions more than you normally would just by playing games.:) Rember…….. Be The Change
April 10th, 2009 at 6:21 am
challenge day was great but after it was all over i wondered. would it still be the same would everybody go backto there own clicks and most did. but for me i layed low from my click and i’m glad that they understand why i left for a while and i thank them for being there for being there for me were like one big familyand that will never change. but when i saw all those people that gone thourgh what i have it made me sad to see that.but that is life people go thourgh that every day. challenge day made me a stronger kid and to give me the chance to stand up for my self and say i hane had enough of this crap. in my life time i have gone thourgh some harcore crap and at challenge i got the chances to do that. i thank all my freinds for being there for me and i thank god above for getting me thourgh the terrible hell i gone thourgh in my past.
April 9th, 2009 at 11:54 pm
Challenge day was the best day of my life.I feel inspired to do more in my community and notice whats going on and choose what I want to do to help a person or people. and last but not least act,a commitment where i have to hold my ground and not care what anybody else says.This is how I want to live the rest of my life. thank you,Aunty Nola and Jake for coming to red bluff high.thank you,for bringing in a challenge.
p.s. I met a really cute guy at challenge day and wev’e been going out for like 2 weeks:]
April 9th, 2009 at 9:31 pm
Last week the challenge da team came to our school. Everyone at our school was not too happy about the though that people were comming in to try and change our lifes. I, for one, had never even hurd about anything like it before so i was kind of curious. When it started, we met the leaders and noone showed any excitment. They started out by playing so games and that got us kind of evcited, then they started the real thing where you got into you “families” and told about your life. That part really helped me realize that i could tell people about my life and not be made fun of about it. i think the most touching part was the line game. it really helped me to see all the people that have gone throught the same things i have and it gave me someone to talk to. i believe that challenge day did help my school and i have seen so many changes sence then. thank you challenge day crew for helping ou school just when we needed it most!! much love from north baltimore high school, Ohio.
April 9th, 2009 at 6:35 pm
I recently had a Challenge Day at my school, hosted by Chris & Devon. Both were wonderful teachers, and more importantly, they were wonderful friends. I loved all the games and activities. If any school out there has not had a Challenge, I recommend one greatly. The students love it, the teachers love, the parents love it. What more could be asked for? I love my family group. <3. Love all you out there reading this, too! <3
April 9th, 2009 at 5:14 pm
Yesterday during lunch I was sitting with my friends, and my friend in the wheelchair came over to my table and asked me if I could bring her up to her class, and I helped her get there faster by pushing her like she asked.
April 9th, 2009 at 4:47 pm
On Wednesday I got the experience of Challenge Day. I go to Whitmer High School in Toledo, Ohio. I went into it thinking it was stupid and a waste of my time. When i walked out of Challenge Day it was the best experience of my life. It was a day that i got to open up and express all my feelings and emotions. It has made me and many other kids at our school different people. I just want to say thank you to Vinny Ferraro and Jon Gordon for coming to Whitmer and talking to us and help us be better people. It was the best day of my life.
April 9th, 2009 at 3:17 pm
I found out telling someone you love that you want more time with them is hard but I faced it. Not long ago and hearing my big sister cry and read the letter it broke my heart and now she knows how I feel about it and we can change thing if we do it now. We can do thing other people may think we cant but we can and we will if we make the change. All you have to do it lower that waterline.
April 9th, 2009 at 11:36 am
I learned at challenge day that you should not pick on anybody or tease them. I also learned that alot of people have the same problems.
April 9th, 2009 at 11:31 am
When i went to challenge day it wasnt my first time but when i went i new what was going on and everything.
And i new that it was going to be good. But to see people that you new and that where your friends crying that made me feel really bad inside. And i have never new that they had it so bad because you thought you new everything about them but really you didnt know everything. And there was people there that i saw gettin picked on at school and it made me feel really bad because know i wish i could go back and stop those people from picking on them but i didnt. And what got me was there was people there that had the same problems as i did. And i thought i was the only one going threw that but i found out that i wasnt. but im really glad i got to go the second time because the second time was even better then going the first and i hope i get to go more because its a good thing to go to so you can learn not to hurt people and to stop people from picking on others.
April 9th, 2009 at 11:29 am
Challenge day was one of the best days of my life. When I first heard about challenge day i wasn’t going to go. I am glade that Whent because if i did not go then things would still had been the same. During challenge day I saw people cry that i never thought would cry, I cryed myself. I enjoyed hearing everyone’s life storyies even though they were emotional. From this point on I will care abot pepole more than i did befor challenge day.
April 9th, 2009 at 11:28 am
i was lucky to go to challengeday. i learned a lot of stuff about people. i us to make fun of people but now i dont.
April 9th, 2009 at 11:18 am
When Mrs. Rodgers gave me the letter to go to challenge day, i did not want to go cause i heard that when you go you have to tell about your life story. So i just went to get out of class. I did not know that what was in store for me could change my life forever. When we first got there, there were a lot of people screaming and yelling for us it was crazy. When we got into our small groups all my emotions started pouring out it wasn’t funny. i just felt like i couldn’t control my feelingd anymore. The one thing that really got to me was the line thing. I felt like i was the only one who was facing problems in this school. When i seen that more than 1 or2 people had the same problems i had i started balling. I highly encourage to challenge day it changed my life forever.
April 9th, 2009 at 11:17 am
At the begging of 9th grade i felt like o loser a nobody. I use to dread waking up every morning to see the same people that make fun of me. Then my teacher and friends mentioned this day called challenge day. When i got on the bus and headed to the FFA camp the first thing i thought was oh yeah a day out of school. I was clueless about challenge day and the different people there. When all of us got in there i looked around thinking this is goiogto be boringhow would anyone have fun at this thing. There was activities that was fun and exciting, then things changed on me and everyone around me. Everyone seperated into families of four to six peopleand we shared past experiences. Not only me but every other single person cried like a baby. After the day had realized that how i was treating people was wrong, really wrong. No single huan in this world deserves any of the horrible stuff their going through. When i got home i made sure i called every person that i’ve did wrong and told them i was sorry and why i said most of the things i did. As a student of breckinridge county high school i plan on trying to make a difference starting with the source, me. Challenge day i feel noe only affected me but everyone that took the time to go.
April 9th, 2009 at 11:10 am
challenge day had a Big impact on me because I really didnt know what was going to happen untill i went. I would remember the line game because you really get to know more people better that way. and the more you learn about them the more you care about whats going on. From this point on im going to try really hard to do my best to be the change. the thing i really enjoyed the most was when we got into groups why because i got to know about someone that i thought i know alot about and i would be rude and mean to him untill i know the truth. And i said i was sorry and i meant it.
April 9th, 2009 at 11:08 am
The impact that Challenge Day had on me was that I learned not to make fun of other people because it hurts them on the inside.You see how it affects other people when they get teased or made fun of. I would of never thought that Challenge Day would of affected me as much as it did. I realized that i wasn’t the only one with the problems, there were other ones to. The family group I was in made me feel loved and they cared for me. I hope everyone gets the chance to go to Challenge Day because it was amazing and changed my life so much. Yes, I admit I use to judge people by the way they dressed and now I know that I was wrong. The things i enjoyed was the games and being in my family group. I also liked meeting new people that I never talked to before. The one thing that really caught my eye was the line crossing game. This game is what made me realize that I wasn’t alone with the problems I am facing or have faced. I hope everyone has the chance to go to Challenge Day because it will change your life. Challenge Day was amazing.
April 9th, 2009 at 11:07 am
I heared about challenge day from alot of my friends and they said that you cryed and tryed to get you to change and different stuff. And I thought that there is no way they will change me but I was wroug. I got they and was like and was like what is going on then I started to get into it. Then we did family group and I find out that people that I thought were mean had alot of problems, going out in their life and people who I never knew had problems in their life. Challenge Day did change me I think before I said something that will most likely hurt someone feelings. also another thing I like abut Challenge Day was the line cross because you got to see what people go through every day and what all has happened in their life.
April 9th, 2009 at 11:05 am
I got on the school bus not knowing what I was getting myself into. I told myself that I wasn’t going to talk abut anything or do anything. But then the small group activity came along. sitting there lsitening to the other people adn their stories made me think, their not any bette ror any worse than us. Their stories amazed me, I didn’t know half the stuff I do now. How much it hurts people when you talk about them. I’m not perfect and yes I have talked abotu people, and judged people. Buth after Challenge Day I will no long judge or talk about anyone. Seeing some of the strongest looking people cross that line made me realize, that maybe they have the same problems at me, or maybe their life isn’t so perfect. From this point on, I’m changing the way I talk to people, look at people, everything. It makes you want to be a better person. I can’t even put into words what Challenge Day has done for me, you will just have to experience it yourself.
April 9th, 2009 at 10:40 am
I recently had the opportunity to go to Challenge Day. It was the best day of my life. The impact that Challenge Day had on me was that I feel that everyone that I know or now know has some of the same problems as I do, and knowing that I’m not the only person in this school to be felt left out. The thing that really will remember the most is when we had to sit in a circle and say “If you really knew me…” I think it gave us a chance to open up and express ourselves. The thing that I’ve done differently is try not to stay in the same group of people. Some changes that I’ve made is trying my hardest to be nice to people I know and people I don’t know. From this point on I will be the best person I can be because knowing that all those people went through so many events and then come to school and act like nothing ever happened. That’s a really big shocker for me. The thing I enjoyed the most was the whole day. At first you are energetic and then you become very serious and actually express yourself. Not just because you are in a group and are supposed to be talking, it’s because people around you are actually listening, and some people can relate to you. If I could go back to that special day I my life I would. If I could do it everyday, I would. It has been the best experience I have ever had and I hope other people come back from Challenge Day as I did and actually feel as I felt.
April 9th, 2009 at 9:49 am
Challenge day was one of the best days of my life. After my challenge day experience it has inspired me to be a better person. I have also stopped making fun of other people and not to judge people. Challenge day is one of those days when you can just be yourself and be able to express your emotions while everyone is around.Challenge day has also inspired me to Be The Change and accept people by who they are and not what the wear or what they do. I encourage everyone to go to challenge day because it will really change your life… in a good way.If you get a chance to go to challenge day you’ll know what im talking about.
April 9th, 2009 at 9:48 am
I was so lucky to go to challenge day. I think this is something the Breckinridge County school system should od more often. Before I went to challenge day I really didn’t care what people said to other people or what I even said, but after challenge day I realize how much it hurt the other people. People say things amd they never really mean to hurt somebody, but it actually does. Something that I’ll remember the most, well I’ll remember everything, but the one thing I will most definitly remember is the line game. To see other people that you really didn’t talk to and people who you thought were better than you cross the line on the toughest questions was really suprising. We tend to judge people by their outsides, but we never know the pain and suffering that they are going through. I’ve tended to talk about people, but after challenge day I’ve stopped because I know how they feel now. From this point on I’m going to think before I speak, I really enjoyed getting to know all different kinds of people. Challenge day had a major impact on me.
April 9th, 2009 at 8:29 am
Hey, my name is Timothy Bassett. I’m a freshmen at Breckinridge County High School. Before I went to challenge day I use to pick on other people. When I got there, I thought this was a waste of time. After I got there and people where talking about their problems, I realized there are people in my school just like me. I decided to make the change after all the things I learned that day. The biggest change I have made is that I don’t pick on people or tease anyone anymore.
April 9th, 2009 at 8:11 am
Hi my name is BreAnna Turner and I want to challenge day on March 27 2009 it was the best day in my life and the best birthday I every had. What made challenging day be come the best day every is when we talked to people that we didn’t like or we never new before. Then talked about are life and people was crying and hugging people change and made new friend .that is why challenge day is the best thing in the world every people should go to challenging day because the world would be a better places to live.
April 9th, 2009 at 7:56 am
challenge day was fun but a sad day. I’ll remember thing’s people said from now on. i will not judge people it someone is being picked on im gonna tell that person to stop. what i liked the most it the games we got to play. BE THE CHANGE
April 9th, 2009 at 6:21 am
Attending challlege day was again one of the best experiences of my life. I have been once before and it was amazing, but i thing going again was even better. I was more open, i had more will power to do things that i didn’t before. I would also have to say no matter if you go once and that’s all it will be an amazing experiences, and i believe that you will want to go back. FROM THIS POINT ON, i will judge people by who they are not what they are.
P.S. Thanks challenge day and to all who helped
April 9th, 2009 at 6:21 am
I am a student breckcounty high school. Going to challenge day changed my life my life. Going to challenge showed me that people go through the same things i do. At challenge day i renawed a long lost friend ship. The line game realt showed my that closest friends havve gone through the harf times that ive been through. It also showed me that people are the same no matter the race, aig, fat, skinny, or gay, because “you are beautful no matter what you say and words cant bring me down”. So for now on i will not, talk crap abough other people, or bring some one down, i will tack the challenge and be the change. So that my acts will change tha world one day at a time!!!
April 9th, 2009 at 6:17 am
challenge day has change my life a lot, my waterling is dropping every day. It can’t change just over night it take action and change day can help you relax and fell safe so you open up and show much much more than an image. But the olny way you can drop your waterline is to step outside of your comfort zone. people can only see your image when your are in the comfort zone, and they see you, but not who you raelly are. people jugde by the name, condition, and the the way the book looks. but after challenge day they are going to change how thing look everyday. what I enjoyed was making new friends and coming closer to old friends.
April 9th, 2009 at 6:13 am
Thank you guys so much for changing the way I see my freinds, other people I see at school and people I see in the community. Before I went to challenge day, I thought that I knew every little aspect of my friends, but after I returned to the bus to go back to school, I figured out that I did’nt know as much as I thought I did about them. And during the “line game”, i figured that I am not alone. I figured that there is more to see than just useing your eyes. Thank you guys so much for changing the way I see things, remember, “be the change”!
April 9th, 2009 at 6:12 am
On march 27th my school took 100 students on a trip to challenge day. I did not think that i was going to like it but i throught wrong it turned out to be one of the best days of my life. i opened up to so many people that i have never seen or talked to be for i droped my water line so much that day. And when we played the line game it go to emotional i have neever cryin n front of my friends but that day i did not care what they said or thought turned out they was crying to but every time they said something seems like i crossed the line every time i told my self that i should say over there. like all theres years i have been to this school i thouhgt no one has been throw that ive been throw but alot of been have when i cross the line there was always there with me on when i been throw so i kno that im not alon. and from the time i was there i meet so many people that i never talked to that are so cool and fun to hang with.
April 9th, 2009 at 6:08 am
Challenge Day had to be one of the best experiences i’ve ever been through. Being able to see people open up and tell their life stories they would of never told anyone, was amazing. The cross the line game, seeing everyone cross the line for certain categories was pretty cool yet sad just seeing all the people that just cross the line for one category. Even the people you would of never imagined in certain categories ended up in some of the most emotional ones. I would of never thought you could learn so much about some stranger in less than a day. Opening up helps alot and talking to complete strangers you’ve never talked to before was kindof weird, but you ended up telling them more than you would even your friends. The day got very emotional at times for everyone. I don’t think anyone would ever forget this day. From this point I plan to be the change. I want to change by starting to say hi to people i don’t even know and show them I really do care and they are never alone through things.
April 9th, 2009 at 6:07 am
on march 27,breckinridge county high schoolwent to challengeday and i went into challengeday thinkin it was just a day outta school but i didnt kno it was goin to have such a hugh inpact on the way i act and look at other people and things aroung me. the one thing i’m suer i’ll never forget about that day is no matter how bad things are or may get your never alone that thier is always someone else in the same place u r …
April 7th, 2009 at 1:38 pm
Hello,
I just wanted to drop a little note and state how challenge day has really changed my aspects on life. Before challenge day I didn’t really want to know what to expect and I didn’t really want to participate. But as the day progressed I learned more and more about myself and my peers. I really enjoyed to experience and day with challenge day and I hope next year we can experience this same thing again.
April 3rd, 2009 at 7:57 pm
I started a blog to inspire others to create change in their communities and the world. Please visit me at http://adinaba.wordpress.com and let me know of someone you’d like to nominate for me to spotlight. Thanks!
April 3rd, 2009 at 5:17 am
i went to challenge day in feb. and not only did i find myself, but i made a lot of new friends. i’m still good friends with all the people i met there and we talk daily. i’m in a serious relationship with one of them. it’s great because we share something special that i don’t share with many other people: and thats the experience we had at challenge day. in august, my principal and three other students are going to mentor each class. i’m looking forward to seeing the results that pay off after hard work and determination. Challenge Day is my platform for a pageant i’m in this summer; i can’t wait to spread the word with the judges & girls i’m running with.
thanks for such a great experience. ps. i recommend reading the Be the Hero book that the founders wrote: it’s touching. <3
March 31st, 2009 at 11:29 pm
i just wanted to say thank you fro coming to Breckinridge County FFA Camp grounds…because i learned so much and now i am a better person than i was befoere i went…
March 31st, 2009 at 5:10 pm
TODAY!!!! i had Challenge Day and OMG it was truly AMAZING i LOVEd it alot… it really showed me alot of things. I learned alot. At first i didn’t really know what it was or just went along with what we were doing. but, after a while i just began to have alot of fun and i now feel closer with people and i know that i can now talk to people and don’t have to worry about being alone or scared because i know its people that now will listen to me and understand what i have to say. so i THANK THE 2 PEOPLE BERNICE&TONY for coming out and doing Challenge Day with FHS in MICHIGAN!!!! =’] you guys was really great!!! will aways remember you guys your the best.
March 31st, 2009 at 1:44 pm
After dinner at a local restaurant, as I walked out into the parking lot, a man was asking for change…I asked if he was hungry, and gave him my leftover dinner when he replied “Yes.”
March 31st, 2009 at 10:41 am
I feel that the cafetiria is the spot to communicate and meet others…. I had an idea that the cafeteria should be set up as a family table. have everyone asociate with everyone, instead of the tables being so apart and having different “clicks”.
March 31st, 2009 at 3:36 am
My friend was really upset tonight so I stayed up and talked with him making sure he was okay and just being there for him before I headed off to bed.
March 28th, 2009 at 8:39 am
Our club just had one of our most successful challenges!
The challenge we gave to the 6th grade students in our school was to leave some anonymous, positive notes on random lockers. And, boy, was this challenge successful! All over the school, there were notes that said, “You rock!” and “I love you” and “LUV your hair!” (there was an unusual amount of positive comments on hair…) Not only did a lot of people put up notes, but we also helped clean them up! You know, to show appreciation for the janitors. Yes, that day was truly a day of change. Keep on being the change, CMS!
March 27th, 2009 at 7:25 pm
I was recently at challenge day at my school and it was amazing. I believe that this day changed lives. I felt closer to my peers and my teachers, more than ever. I got to see how we all can be different yet have alot of us have the same problems. The emotions i felt in that room were unbearable. I don’t like to cry but it came out and i felt happier after i did. I feel as if my balloon is less full today than it was yesterday. I want to thank the adult leaders for encouraging us and for all the love in the room. It really made a difference to me. Lastly i want to thank Kekoa and Mzima for leading us all in the right direction. What you both helped me teach myself will stick with me for a long time. I am sure of that, and i am grateful. Challenge day is a great program and every student in every school should be able to experience just one challenge day. Maybe this will help us challenge ourselves in our lives and the lives of our brothers and sisters of the world.
March 27th, 2009 at 3:58 pm
I went to a challenge day at Red Bluff Union High School in Red Bluff CA. It touched me very much. I hope that it makes our school closer and gets rid of the racism,sexism and many onther bad things.
This is a great organization.
Keep It Going!!!
Thanks,
Chase
March 27th, 2009 at 1:31 pm
i set and talked with a kid who looked lonely sitting at a lunch table all by himself, and after a minute or two of me introducing myself and him just saying “yea’s” and “no’s” and “okay’s”, he really opened up and started talking
when the lunch bell rang he was smiling and i felt good because i felt like i had really made his day
March 26th, 2009 at 6:36 pm
hi..this is Caleb i go to Francis Howell Middle School.and this was the best program I’ve ever been in. I’ve made so many no friends and to get to know my friends better.doing all these activities are pretty fun. I just want to thanks for changing my whole life!!! I’ve been seeing more kids in my school getting better and better it just makes me really proud because Ive been dealing with stuff that was out of this world and to tell people who i really am. <{-_-}.
March 26th, 2009 at 1:33 pm
I recentely had challenge day at W.J. Keenan High School, and it was great… The experience was one of the best in my entire life, The cross-the-line activity most definately stood out to me, I was able to see how many others were in the same boat as I am in, and there were many emotions. I never cry in public, but that day everybody got to get things off of their chests and show serious emotion… I recommend Challenge Day to all high schools.
March 26th, 2009 at 10:33 am
Wow. That is such a small word for such an amazing change in our community. Our high school students are trying hard to Be The Change in our community. Love signs are happening everywhere and kids are smiling! Thank you Jyoti and Sean for helping us learn to create such a positive and loving atmosphere in our schools. We can’t wait until our next Challenge Days in December!
March 25th, 2009 at 6:23 pm
I just wanted to say that I appreciate each person who is blogging about their acts of change. I get tons of ideas by reading the blogs. So thank you to each of you for supporting Challenge Day and the “Be the Change” Movement. You all are amazing!!!
P.S. This message was one of my acts of change for today!!!
March 25th, 2009 at 5:41 pm
Challenge Day has got to be one of the best days that i have ever had in my life. I opened up more than i thought i ever would. Everyone was opening their hearts up fully so it wasn’t awkward the least bit. I told my group things that i NEVER would have told anyone else in my life. Who would have ever thought that i’d be telling my deepest darkest secrets to complete stranger. I told them about all the pills i have to take so i don’t go crazy, about how i have no relationship at all with my parents. But the biggest opener i let go would have to be about my little boy. A 15 year old with a 3 year old little kid. The average person would have shunned a person of that criteria and thought negatively of them….but not my group, and most importantly of all, DEFINITELY NOT CHALLENGE DAY! They just gave open hearts and arms.
thanks for saving my life….
March 25th, 2009 at 5:17 pm
I go to Jackson High School and I have been trying to get more people to expand. To not stick to one group of friends and so far I have exanded and I have been talking to my friends and telling them that even though they have me and a few others, you need lots of love so why stick with just us. Say hi to a random person and try to be friends. It has worked with my so far.
March 25th, 2009 at 10:43 am
Thank you all i had a good time i have a lot lot of friends.I am so happy cause i have a good time with my boyfriend.You guys got use together.I love you all and thank you.I hope that all the people that are there.
I love you peace
March 24th, 2009 at 5:12 am
I paid for the tolls of sevral people behind me on the bridge
March 24th, 2009 at 5:11 am
Yvonne and I donated a Challenge day for the Peace Alliance Conference in Washinton DC
March 23rd, 2009 at 11:42 am
I was walking to a friend’s house and I saw a woman picking and throwing garbage from a bin into a larger one. I walked up to her and greeted her with an honest smile and asked her if she needed help. I picked up the bin and dumped it out for her.
March 23rd, 2009 at 11:42 am
I wrote an article in our local paper about Notice Choose Act as a formula for change.
I picked up trash outside of a local store.
March 22nd, 2009 at 10:03 pm
I bought banana bread for a homeless man. He was very grateful and his smile said it all!
March 22nd, 2009 at 6:05 pm
i held the door open for someone behind me.
March 22nd, 2009 at 1:59 pm
I bought lunch for a homeless man outside a Safeway store in Carmel. It is such a great feeling to do something for someone and have them get excited and say “God Bless You!” I was proud to have my kids see me doing an act of change!
March 21st, 2009 at 11:16 am
Justin… I have been reading your Acts of Change. You are awesome and you are doing it!! You ar Being the Change!! I am so proud of you and I hope you are proud of yourself too!!!.;o) WOW…;o)
March 21st, 2009 at 11:10 am
I was at the airport headed home after some great Challenge Days in Utah. I visited the Ladies room to change into my travelling clothes and while I was in the stall, I heard another woman in another stall sneeze. “God Bless You” I said. “Thank you” was the reply. “You’re Very Welcome”. She said, “It’s nice to know that there are still nice people around”. I replied, “There are nice people all over the place. It’s just sometimes it takes a minute for us to see them.” She was silent for a moment. Then she said, “My husband is dying.” I had finished changing my clothes and stepped out of the stall and I turned to her and opened my arms to her. Silently, she stepped into them and let me hold her. After a long getle hug, she shared that she was flying to take a stuffed animal to her grandchild that was going to be the last gift from “Papa”. Her husband requested that she make this trip, so that he could talk to his grandchld knowing that thier grandchild was holding this gift from “Papa”. She whispered that she hopes she will make it back in time to be with her husband while he makes that phone call, but she was afraid that she might not. I stayed with her until it was time to catch the plane and prayed for her husband, Shannon, and for a beautiful transition from this life to the next. I also prayed for for her that her travel be easy and swift and that she get to be with him when they make that phone call.
March 20th, 2009 at 5:01 pm
challenge day helped our school out a lot we had it yesterday(3/19/09) and already today we could see the change in people and it felt good to walk into the new school environment all of the bullies who went to the program have stopped their old ways thank you
March 18th, 2009 at 5:04 pm
i loved challenge day. it deifnately made me a better person walking out, than i was i walking in.
thank you everyone who came.
you have truly made a difference
March 18th, 2009 at 7:43 am
On Tuesday, March 17, 2009, I had the honor of being involved in Challenge Day at Jefferson High School. The two people who came to Lafayette were two of the most unique individuals I have ever had the joy of meeting. They made me feel safe, and for one whole day, I wasn’t judged. Nobody laughed at me because I have a girlfriend, and it felt empowering. When I stood in front of everyone and said that I was an amazing chef, everyone told me that I really was amazing, and that feeling will leave an impression on me that I will never forget. Seeing everyone cry at their own pain was one thing, but to feel the pain of eveyone around you, and to know that people care, that people cry for you, that their tears are not selfish, is eye-opening. I know that I took away from Challenge Day what made me feel like it truly was the best day of my life. Honestly I can say that Challenge Day was the best experience I have ever had. I challenge myself and everyone else to forget first impressions, forget people’s backgrounds and forget everything about people. Just treat them how you want to be treated, treat them like they are special. Judge people by who they are, not what they are. I challenge everyone to take a stand and be the change.♥
March 17th, 2009 at 8:35 pm
This is about an act of change someone did for me: Today I waiting at the bus to go to an appointment, and this taxi driver comes up to me and offers me a ride. At first, I politely decline, not wanting to get in the car with a stranger. He talks me into it, and while driving he explains that every day he gives someone in my situation a free taxi ride because it makes him feel good and helps to spread happiness in the world. As i got of the taxi, I told him how grateful I was and promised to do an act of change. It totally made my day!
March 17th, 2009 at 12:51 pm
i had challenge day for the first time on 3/17/09 and it had inspired me to make a change in the school and start up a S.A.G.A. club that our school so desparatly needs it helped me see how to help situations and it really cleared my head. ive always been an inclusive person but i really needed this to express things that were bottled and have people see the real me.
March 17th, 2009 at 3:35 am
1 - I noticed that the police car in front of me rear tire was going flat, so I drove up next to him and told him.
2 - I held open a door for a women who had a arm full of boxes at Kinkos.
March 16th, 2009 at 6:22 pm
March 16 - Challenge day came to our school today coming at the perfect time in my life. A week ago i found out that my boyfriend of over a year had cheated on me with my old best friend. Me and her had gone our separate ways when I started dating him because of jealousy issues. It completely destroyed me to hear what he had done. I had not forgiven him or her until experiencing Challenge Day. While my ex was not in it, my old best friend was, and I thought I wasn’t going to be able to handle being in the same room as her, but I stuck it out through the whole day. At the end of the day, we were asked to apologize to someone we’ve hurt before or tell someone we appreciate them. My old best friend approached me and started crying. She apologized for everything that happened between us over the past year and for hurting me by getting with my boyfriend. It touched me so much that I am now taking the first steps toward forgiving her and my ex and moving forward from this. I can’t even begin to say how much Challenge Day has done for me and how grateful I am to have been a part of it.
March 16th, 2009 at 1:35 pm
We had our first Challenge Day at WDHS today and I was very moved by how our students responded to it. I want you all to know that I am there for you. You will see the “hand signal” on my door in room 211. Any time you need to talk…I will listen. Mrs. Kelly
March 16th, 2009 at 12:48 pm
I decorated my co-worker’s desk for her birthday
March 15th, 2009 at 7:15 pm
Grover Middle School just had it’s Challenge Days, and the students and teachers alike have had WONDERFUL comments about Challenge Day. Some students have told me: “It changed my life” and “It was one of the best days of my life”. What more could we ask for but to continue to Be the Change! Thank you to our principal for making these days possible, and thank you to our presenters Berenice and Randy for the amazing people that you are each and every day!
March 15th, 2009 at 5:42 pm
My blog is about receiving an act of change. Today my sons Isaac and Isaiah turn 7. We drove 1.5 hours to have lunch with my mom for their birthday. We met half way between Everett WA and BC Canada in Bellingham washington. Red Robin was the place to be. The manager Blake and his staff, knew we were coming because my mom called to say we were coming and could they put balloon at the table. Not only did they do that, they went out and bought a cake in the shape of a burger and fries, all the staff signed a card and the manager bought the cake, the boys lunch and our appetizer. All the staff came by to say hello to the boys. It was amazing. My mom was so moved by such love. i think the acts of change Bellis Fair RR did gifted my mom too. We tipped the server extra generously. I blogged on the RR website about their generosity.
March 12th, 2009 at 5:51 pm
wel i had challenge day for the first time on 3/11/09. i though tthat it would just be a chance to get out of class and miss the work. but when i got there, it was sooooooo not what i had expected. i learened so much about my friends that i never would have kown if it wasnt for that day. i had second thoughts before i went lnike did i really want to do this? well in the ned i did.at first it was cool when we played the games and just had fun with our friends. thats when we let out all of your energy. after that it got all serious. htats when all of the things i never kew happened and could happen did. all of the popular people actuall have a side that most people dont know about. this was a great time to let it all out. i wish we had this more often so we could know the other side of people before we judge them. i just wanna say thanks to our staff people Berenice and Randy. thanks for making this one of the best days of my life. Thomas Grover Middle School 7th graders really appreciated you.
March 11th, 2009 at 8:09 pm
Ok,
So today is the first day,we had a mini version, but it was the most moving thing i have ever done. Just the way the kids let down and let other people around them truly get to know them. I never knew the kids in my class all well as i do now.And for anybody that reads this be open to getting to know kids who you dont hang out with there is alot to them that you would never realize inless you had this challenge.And it really is a challenge to be able to trust your self and let other get to know what is going on with you.
So thank you for every one else and especially a guy who came in and told us his story without knowing us.
Thanks for this day!!!!!!!
March 11th, 2009 at 6:34 pm
i got a teacher a birthday card to honor his 80th birthday.
a teacher dropped her notebook and i picked it up for her.
March 11th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
Our Be the Change Club just hosted a Diversity Fair. We ate all kinds of international food, played cultural games from around the world, experienced different types of learning/life styles, made crafts, ate ice cream, and pied some teachers. We celebrated how diverse Grover Middle School is and was able to kick off Challenge Day. We can’t wait for it to come to our school this week!
March 10th, 2009 at 6:29 pm
i held the door open for someone that had her hands full.
March 9th, 2009 at 4:55 pm
i brought boxes for the athletic director to the storage room.
March 8th, 2009 at 9:31 pm
my school, flornce river front, had challenge day a couple months ago nd it was the change my school needed bcuse b4 we were the worst 2 each other. tht day i swear between every1 in the room we could have filled a pool wit all the tears, we have learned 2 appreiate each other, my school has made a team of students wit the help of our giuidence councler 2 carry on the be the change message. im on the team, nd we just gave out nd collected a survey 2 find out problems in other grades bcuse there r 4 other grades. but igot say on a personal note i love chris and pam 2 death, i hope i see them again some day, there the greatest
P.S. chrish look like j-roll (jimmy rollins)
March 8th, 2009 at 4:58 pm
i just talked to someone that was feeling down about something that happened today, im not friends with the person, i just talk to her sometimes on facebook, and glad i could talk to her about it and feel appreciated from her.
March 7th, 2009 at 11:04 am
yesterday i offered to help the guidance secretary, because she was all alone in a room doing something.
March 6th, 2009 at 4:36 pm
one of my friends told me today that someone is making fun of her and being sexist and harassing her and she told me what he was saying, and later on i sent him a message asking him nicely to stop it.
March 6th, 2009 at 1:57 pm
today i helped a teacher bring a few boxes to another teachers room, as well as yesterday.
March 6th, 2009 at 1:34 pm
today i helped someone i know at my high school that is in a wheel chair get from one place to another, she kept thanking me, and it made me feel good about myself.
March 5th, 2009 at 7:03 pm
I just had the moving and life changing experience of my first Challenge Day through Pennsbury High School. The love and understanding that occured in the Mosonic Lodge that the meeting was held in was incredible, and made me want to just go out into the world and “Be the change that I want to see in the world”! I want to be less judgemental and more accepting of everyone in my school, church, Boy Scout troop, and most of all, my family. This day of love and compassion, tears and hugging, has truly become the happiest day of my life. Thank you for your excellent guidance Jyoti and Jon.
March 5th, 2009 at 6:15 pm
no joke this program opened my eyes in such a way i cryed so much but i think it was ready to come out and i had the love of the leaders there devon and rhaytion they were so loving and caring no i know how people feel and there life isnt perfect i jsut wanna thank you guys for changing my life seriously THANK YOU for opening my eyes to all the issues of the world and how the need to change
March 5th, 2009 at 5:56 pm
This week, I have a different focus on the formula for change. I spend so much of my time helping other people since I’m in a helping profession. So this week, I decided to apply the formula and random acts of change to myself so that I can more effectively help other people.
Notice: What needs to change within myself? Choosing a negative behavior.
Choose: What can i do to better the situation? Allow people to support me, and ask myself the hard questions.
Act: What will I commit to doing? I commit to keeping my priorities in check so that I am well balanced.
Random acts of change for me: Took a nap in the middle of the day. Treated myself to a healthy dinner out with some of my closest girl friends. Reminded other people of the importance of self-care.
March 5th, 2009 at 5:53 pm
I came up with a really creative idea and am working on something that has the potential to change thousands of lives. It is definitely a work in progress. i will post more about it as I am able to.
March 4th, 2009 at 6:17 am
I called a former co-worker that I have not connected with for a few years. We were very close when we worked together and she has been on my mind. We talked on the phone for an hour, she recently changed jobs and is having financial difficulties. She told me it was great to talk again. I was glad that I took the step to contact her.
March 3rd, 2009 at 8:04 pm
I’m a maui hero as an 8th grader and today we went to Iao Valley and cut down a whole bunch of trees and pulled out weeds so that the water could flow into the stream again, we made ALOT of progress. I’m a little scratched up and kinda sore and it took a while but it was totally worth it! I feel soo good to have helped our Aina
March 3rd, 2009 at 1:46 pm
Alina helped to teach her younger sister how to read.
Ambika read stories to the children in her younger sister’s school.
Kaivalya cheered up her friend.
Alina S. greeted the school nurse. (A random act of kindness)
Ebria helped a student learn spanish.
Krystal gave her brother a dollar for no reason whatsoever.
Priyanka talked to the school nurse randomly.
Matt made his sister feel better when she was down.
We made posters celebrating women’s history month which is in March.
We are planning to run a Challenge Day for the 7th graders in our school. This will be a day of sharing feelings and emotions and making our school a better place.
So far, we’ve done skits for the 6th graders based on bullying effects, how to react, and what actions we can take to make our school a better place. We signed a poster that made us promise to be kind. It will be hanging over our lockers in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade. For the rest of our MIDDLE SCHOOL YEARS!
March 3rd, 2009 at 1:10 pm
Hey Jyoti and Jon,
Today I had my challenge day and I just want to thank you for this amazing program! I had such a rewarding experience today and it is something I will always remember. I really hope that I can carry out this vision of change and spread it in our everyday lives especialy at my school. Thank you so much for everything you do I had a lot of fun.
Love, Jenna
March 2nd, 2009 at 7:40 pm
I just wanted to say again I wish I had gone to a Challenge when I was in High school It was so Powerfull and I want to say Chris and Bernice were GREAT !! I went with my daughter and I did not know what to expect as a parent being a single father I had a big eye opener and want to say Thank you so Much !!
Please keep up the good work and again THANK YOU SO MUCH !!and Thanks CAT
Your DAD
March 2nd, 2009 at 2:56 am
Hi we just had another great challenge day. I’m a peer mediator at my school and was a team leader for both days. I would like to thank Chris and Berenice for coming and sharing the experience with us. We sure had a CD for the history books! When Berenice asked if anyone would like to take the step towards ending oppression and speak with the mic. Usually most kids stay standing and a couple sit down. This time EVERY person in that room STOOD up on their chair! People were crying and Chris and Berenice were totally speechless. I have never seen a CD like it. The whole school is different, so come and visit us again. We’ll let you guys watch spongebob! lol. Thanks,
Yosemite High School in Oakhurst, Ca
March 1st, 2009 at 12:56 pm
I took my community service club to our annual regional service project at the SF Food Bank. 20 schools, 175 students, one day, one vision to stamp out hunger. In 3.5 hours, we sorted twenty thousand pounds of apples and oranges!
March 1st, 2009 at 12:52 pm
I was driving with my community service club to a project in the city and I started telling them about Acts of Change. Then our teacher chaperone ended up paying for the bridge toll for the car behind us.
February 25th, 2009 at 9:39 pm
i am praying for family friends and a person i really don’t understand
February 25th, 2009 at 8:18 pm
I dropped the waterline with my science class lab partner, a girl I had never really talked to before besides saying the usual “Hi.” She started telling me everything she’s going through right now and how grateful she was that I was willing to listen.
February 25th, 2009 at 5:40 pm
I go to Lower Lake High School in Lower Lake CA, to me that is the best school that I will say that is fit for high school students. The reason I say this is because my high school is being the change we wish to see in the world. People are treating each other with respect more now then ever this year. The school violence has gone down 12% this year. Which is amazing. The enviorment that my team and I(Be the Change Team) as well as other clubs is really taking its toll on changing. So I want to tell everyone that now matter what you hear about schools or communities, you really have to be there to really understand if people you hear things from are really telling the truth. I want to thank Lower Lake High School and all the people in it for being the change we wish to see in the world. Good luck to everyone.
Melanie Pressley
February 25th, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Today I had prayed for a freind who was really going through a hard time in thier life.I had felt that I had a breakthrough for my friend. My freind said “Thank You Very Much”. For me just doing something so simple as praying for someone can really make a difference in peoples’ live. So I challenge people to go out and really do something for someone you know or don’t know because you want to not have to. As you do that you will begin to realize whatever you do to help someonelse, make a difference in those peoples’ lives. So go out and be the change you wish to see in the world.
Melanie Pressley
February 25th, 2009 at 11:03 am
Challenge Day came to my school on Feburary 3rd and I attended. It changed my life forever. One of the things we did really showed me that I’m not the only one who has had a really hard life but it also showed me that I’m not the only one who knows and wants to make a change. At the end of the session I stood up and told the 125 some people that I was tired of being judged for what people say about me and what they see,and I was really tired of feeling like I don’t want to come to school because of all the taunt and torment. But after that day I haven’t been judged or teased by anyone that was there, in fact I have made new friends that I hope will last a lifetime because of Challenge Day.
February 25th, 2009 at 10:53 am
Today at starbucks (again) i gave the manager a stack of Pay it Forward cards and asked her to offer them t those customers who receive an act of change like a free coffee from other customers. She is thrille. We love you Sabrina Graham at the Everett Starbucks. She is an angel being the change. I think the book should be a Starbucks book. How do we manifest that one???
I texted love messages to some of my next step family.
February 25th, 2009 at 10:03 am
The other day a girl at my school dropped a bunch of her stuff so I asked if she needed some help and helped her gather her stuff together.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:41 pm
I am so excited! I have been reading my signed copy “-) of “Be the Hero”, and decided to really try it! In the last 2 days at work, I was asked to see 3 different students who came into the office complaining of “not feeling well”….I am the nurse and that’s my job! After making sure that they didn’t have a fever or worse, I just took the time to really listen, and then asked the question “what else”? And I waited and listened. And then I asked “what else”? All 3 just started emptying their balloons, sharing their sadness and what was really hurting. All 3 conversations ended with hugs and a few tears and a promise that we would talk again soon. One of them, who had been doubled over with a stomach ache, told me that nobody had ever asked before!!! I feel so empowered. I am grateful for Challenge Day, and Rich and Yvonne and everyone who is part of this. Thank you for sharing the tools and your love.
February 24th, 2009 at 8:43 pm
I gave a friend some much needed support. She’s going through a hard time and expected to vent. I sent her a message with how wonderful SHE was…it made me feel like a million bucks. Made her feel like a trillion…
February 24th, 2009 at 1:55 pm
On Saturday night, a bunch of us from my Next Step group went out to dinner. Before we ordered our food, I asked our waiter to do an “If you really knew me…” Then when our food came, I asked everyone to go around the table and say one thing they are grateful for. Before we left the restaurant, we clapped for our waitress and left an extra nice tip.
February 24th, 2009 at 1:49 pm
I wrote a letter to my friend who is away at college telling her how grateful I am to have her in my life and enclosed the Pay It Forward card.
February 24th, 2009 at 12:17 pm
Today i was in Starbucks picking up the daily donations they give my organization. I was telling the folks that know me at the store (3 have done CD) that I fell in love all over again with my hubby after this weekends Next Step. A lady was waiting for a large order of coffees for her office. She was carrying 2 of the 3 trays she ordered. I offered to take the 3rd tray for her. She was so pleased. She had overheard me speaking of my renewed love and she asked me more about it. Then said “there is a reason i met you today, thanks” i simply said “pay it forward and have a blessed day”
February 24th, 2009 at 10:01 am
After Challenge Day my school (Stillman High) has made a group called Free Your Self it is helping students in a big way. We meet for about 40mins once a week, and ive learned alot about people i would have never thought. We talk about anything from friends to problems at home. It is a big positive impact on my school and i am hoping other schools will do the same
February 23rd, 2009 at 6:38 pm
WOW! I just returned from the next step workshop…amazing. I’m still on a beautiful, natural high from this weekend with all my new friends! Thank you to everyone at Challendge Day, Be the Change, you have changed my life, forever. I am looking forward to being a volunteer at the Challenge Day in Pacifica, CA this coming Friday. As part of the pay it forward, (thank you Linda for the great CD!) I am sending an annomous Safeway gift card to a family member who is out of work and struggling to feed their family. It feels really good to help others!
February 23rd, 2009 at 6:17 pm
To CHANGED, who posted a question. The best place to find out how to get in touch with your small group leader (ie: adult volunteer) is to find the person at your school who coordinated the Challenge Day. If you don’t know who that is, ask the school secretary or any teacher or administrator who was at the Challenge Day. Different schools have different policies about this, so this is why checking with your school coordinator is the best thing to do. I’m glad to hear she had a positive impact! - Rodrigo, Challenge Day IT Manager
PS - I’ll take this opportunity to blog that my roommate did an act of change for me, he drove me to my doctor’s appointment the other day out of the goodness of his heart! I returned the act of change by buying him lunch
February 23rd, 2009 at 4:18 am
Change can be made by getting involved in others lives in the community you live in. A good friend of many in the community has been stricen with leukemia and has been getting major doses of chemotherepy at University of Michigan. We have rallied around him since he lost his job that supported his family. His medical coversge only lasted a month. On Feb.28 their will be a hugh benefit for him and his family. This will hopefully raise enough funds to keep their heads above water. Their will be a wonderful chicken dinner with all the fixings. We have gone throughtout the community to collect donations and items for the chinese raffle that will be held. When we can make a difference in each others lives I believe we have a better chance as a society to care for one another and build esch other up with hope, love and unity.
February 20th, 2009 at 4:32 pm
On Valentine’s Day morning, members of the Central Florida Be The Change Club came out to Lake Baldwin in Orlando, Florida, to give hugs to over 400 walkers in the 2nd Annual Out of the Darkness Walk. The walk takes place to bring awareness to mental health conditions and suicide as well as bringing together those affected by the death of a loved one. What a difference those hugs made for so many! Thank you!
February 20th, 2009 at 12:52 am
when i herd we wer doing challange day in my school i herd the upper class men talking about it how we wer guna cry well wen i walked into that gym i tho it was a day outa class but it was much more then that we had fun for about 20 mins then bernice and sean started teling us about there lives and y they do what they do and we go into groups and to b honest i was the first to break down in tears and when we did the activety where you chose wich side of the line you wer on it was so hard but it wasnt at the same time i had frends i didnt even know about standing be side me with there hand on my shoulder it made it so much easyer that i had ppl there that where goin threw simalir problems.
thank you
sean and bernice i aprecate you coming to my school
james stocking at west valley high skool fairbanks ak
February 19th, 2009 at 5:37 pm
I will change how hateful I am for the Emotional baggage i keep…(my balloon) and I’m going to be more open and loving to people; alot better than I have been. Thank you Tony and Jennifer!
February 19th, 2009 at 11:12 am
I bought a radiator for my friends’ car so they could take their kids to school…loren Maui Hero Project/ Circle of Change
February 18th, 2009 at 10:43 pm
I made a “FABULOUS” princess crown for my buddy, Natalie to show her how fabulous I thought she was the way she orchestrated the Challenge Day Fundraiser!
February 18th, 2009 at 10:34 pm
maui heroes
we cleaned our teachers’ class rooms and scraped soo much gum.
February 18th, 2009 at 6:58 pm
The challenge day crew came to my school today and it was the best day of my life! I first sat down thinking why am i sitting in a room with my friends and people i don’t even know very well. But by doing the activities and hearing others stories i really felt like i knew everyone there. And when we had to cross the line it really hit me that my life really isn’t bad compared to what some of my friends hve to go through every day. And i feel like my school and class are going to be better people. And the be a man box and the lady flower one of the people stood up and said “girls pick off the petals of the lady flower” and a bunch of girls rippen apart the flower and he also said “let’s get rid of this box!” and we tore it down. it was a day i will never forget.
February 18th, 2009 at 4:26 pm
Well it is only one week away from our first Challenge Day and I have to say everyone one involved is making positve changes every where they go. Our community is wonderful and my act of kindness is to publicly declare that I am proud to be a part of such a magnificent community as Williams Lake, British Columbia.
February 18th, 2009 at 3:54 pm
I’m not sure excatly where to ask this so I’ll just throw this out here-
Does anyone know if there’s a way I’ll be able to get in touch with my “family”/group leader?
She was sooooo fabulous and Challenge Day was more than a month ago at our schol and I’m glad to say that I’m still seeing people reach out to others and be supportive. I think I owe some major thanks to her.
Challenge day has seriously changed my ife! <3
February 18th, 2009 at 3:05 pm
i love challange day.and it help my family.thank you
February 18th, 2009 at 11:07 am
i invited somone to sit next to me in class who always sat alone
February 18th, 2009 at 11:03 am
I sat with someone at lunch who always sits alone.
February 17th, 2009 at 8:54 pm
I sent inspirational text messages to my friends. It was fun to see their reactions.
February 17th, 2009 at 1:52 pm
I had an amazing crew of people help me at this weekends fundraiser. I am forever grateful for the adult, teen and staff volunteers who dedicated their Valentine’s Day to Challenge Day. I couldn’t have done my job without your help and I feel SOOOO grateful for each and every one of you!!!
You are all walking acts of change!
February 16th, 2009 at 11:57 pm
When it came to my attention that two sisters that were African/Americans had been bullied at school. I went to the suoerintendent of the school and suggested we put a program in place called “UNITY”, which would have a mission statement that read,” The mision of UNITY is to raise the awareness of the world school community, concerning intolerance and replace intolerance with respect and an appreciation for the worth and dignity for all mankind”. A DIVERSITY CLUB was created in the high school and a new found challenge has been birthed to change the atmosphere of the school and make a positive impact on the world.
February 16th, 2009 at 5:02 pm
Hi, im Ashley C., a student that is attending Houma Jr. High School in Houma,La. Our scool are apart of the Be The Change Movement.This will be something very new and hopefully a learning experience.I think that because when I think of change I think of change for the better not the worst.
Love,
Ashley C.
February 16th, 2009 at 12:47 pm
I took my dad to the fundraiser for this amazing organization, so he could learn more about the work that has had such a profound impact on my life. I also read Rich and Yvonne’s new book, “Be the Hero You’ve Been Waiting For” and started practicing some of the tools explained in it. Thanks to the book, I now have a vision board hanging on my wall by my bed. Be the change!
February 15th, 2009 at 8:32 pm
The challenge day people came to my school in Jackson, New Jerseylast week on (Feb. 10 & 11, 2009) it was absolutely amazing!! Everyone had so much fun and I cried more than I ever had in front of people I don’t know!! It was a great experience. I haven’t seen much of a change in the people in my school but I’ve definitely seen a change in me. Thanks for coming to Jackson Memorial High School!! Thanks Katie and Kekoa, you guys rock!!!
Thanks,
Kristen Cladek
February 13th, 2009 at 6:28 pm
I cut my hair and donated it to “Locks of Love” to help make wigs for kids with cancer.
February 13th, 2009 at 6:27 pm
I volunteered to serve food at a homeless shelter, and made an extra effort to sit down and connect deeply to some of the visitors.
February 12th, 2009 at 10:54 pm
I had the best time and learned alot about myself and others. More people should know about Challenge Day and Chris(a.k.a. My BFF) and Aunty Nola were SOO AWSOME!!
February 12th, 2009 at 7:16 pm
This day had brought my school so much closer, and i just wanted to say the whole day changed my out look on a lot of things. Life basically, i’ve learned you really dont know what people are going through, and i would just like to say, i am the change, and many things have been going better for me, and i hope to keep it alive through my next two years of high school & through life. I cannot wait to have this again my senior year,thank you!
February 12th, 2009 at 2:59 pm
Hi I go 2 olympia high school,
I went to challenge day again. 4 the second year in a row. this year i learned that i’m loved by a lot more people then i thought! I’d like 2 thank Ray Ray 4 being an awesome leader! i love this program i’m never going 2 forget about this for the rest of my life! thanks ya’ll
Joel H. Olympia,WA
February 12th, 2009 at 2:50 pm
Hi Challengers,
I just came back from Challenge Day at my high school (in Middleton, WI) and I would like to thank Berenice and Tony for forever changing my life. You’ve made me open my eyes and realize I am not alone. You have saved me from drowning in my fears and disrespects. I can honestly tell you that I love you. Thank you for changing me. Thank you for saving my life.
Sincerely,
Cortney
P.S. You asked us what we wanted to be and my answer then was an English teacher. I’ve changed my mind. I want to save the generations by becoming a Challenge Leader. You’ve inspired a whole new life for me.
I am so grateful.
February 12th, 2009 at 9:08 am
Really looking at people before trying to make a judgment. Appreciating everyone’s differences. Realizing that everyone has some pain.
February 12th, 2009 at 5:55 am
Notice: More love for everybody
Change: Showing more love to everybody
Act: Giving more love to everybody by writing a few poems
I love to live a challenge day
I love to give a challenge day
Challenge day is giving others life
Life is life
Life is beautiful
Life is about giving
Life is about loving
Life is about safety
Life is a celebration when you are sharing love and safety
Live your life and make sure that other can live their lives.
Life is to celebrate
Life is to feel save
Life it to feel love
Living is a celebration if you feel loved and safe
Life is all about celebrating love and safety
Huge Hugs
Conrad
February 11th, 2009 at 11:12 pm
I was a small group facilatator on the sophomore retreat at my school today… helping to show these kids that I can be the mentor I never had.
February 10th, 2009 at 5:07 pm
I love reading all of these acts of change. It is truly inspiring.
I am currently planning a very special Valentine’s party for some teenagers who are currently in a drug rehab. I’m planning some special activities for them, and I’m going to bring some special snacks and drinks and valentine’s decorations so that V-Day is fun for them even though they are in rehab. 
February 10th, 2009 at 11:03 am
Aloha Again!
Gee, we are gettin’ busy around here!! Kalama School’s counselor Dede, asked us to help her with the staff development day for the school. A bunch of our mentors showed up on their day off to hang with their teachers!! Dede began with an intro and some ice breakers and games from the Project Adventure bag of tricks. The the mentors brought out the 6′ -Earthball and, I kid you not, the ground started to quake!
We tried to paint a picture of what Challenge Day brought out of the students earlier in the year for those teachers who did not attend. Then we challenged the teachers to break out of their old habits and reach out to one another as people. We encouraged everyone to remember that we all have difficulties in our lives that cause us to behave in different ways.
By the end they were sitting in their Teacher Teams and sharing, “If you really knew me you would know that I am grateful to work with young people because…” After a speak out, we finished with a tribute to teachers while “The World’s Greatest” blared in the background. They all held hands in a circle and some had tears in their eyes. We didn’t move into hugs this time, but some couldn’t resist the feeling and reached out on their own. Mahalo for letting us share…loren, Maui Hero Project/Circle of Change
February 9th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
hi i am sanjana
i am an a 7th grade in mi
and when i had challenge day (today) it was very fun and exciting and there was times where people gets very sad. this experience really made me look at people a different way
i would like to thank meads mills middle school to let us have this experience that make u see people in a way that they are not different from us…
i would like to thank Angela and Jon (i hope that i spelled that right). an ways BE THE CHANGE… MAKE IT HAPPEN… BE THE PERSON
February 8th, 2009 at 1:36 pm
I was in Ohio (-12 degrees…freezing), returning from doing Challenge Days at Kenston Middle School. Tony and I were retuning our rental car at Budget and the girl checking in our car, out in the parking lot didn’t have any gloves in the freezing cold weather, so I gave her mine. She was very grateful.
I also fixed the carpet in front of the sliding glass doors that was a little messed up, so that people wouldn’t trip on it.
I helped some passengers get thier luggage into the overhead space and put thier extra bag near my feet, since that area was clear and I wasn’t going to use that space anyway.
I encouraged another passenger with my “If you really knew me”. He was a man who was raised amid gangs, prison and drug culture, who had joined the Marines and now was an airline pilot, husand and father. I encouraged him to continue to look for ways to share his story and to pursue sharing strength and hope. I will continue to pray for Captain Gabe.
I am letting my “little girl” out to play more often and had a nice evening singing karaoke with friends. And yes, I sang!!!!
February 7th, 2009 at 8:01 pm
Challenge Day made a huge impact on my life. It made me realize all the little things I took for granted. It also made me see, that all the bad stuff I’ve been through; I didn’t go through it alone. Thank youuu
February 6th, 2009 at 9:56 pm
Pam and Jake came to Clearview Regional High School this week and helped a lot of people get in touch with themsleves and their schoolmates. I can’t thank them enough for their kindness and compassion. For my part, I will continue to notice, choose, and act every single day.
February 6th, 2009 at 8:58 pm
Me and my friends went around giving everybody hugs at school today.
February 6th, 2009 at 4:48 pm
I told my husband Rich EVERYTHING I loved about him. I turned off the TV, looked in his eyes, and let my love and appreciation be felt by me and HIM.
February 6th, 2009 at 4:42 pm
What i like about houk that it was fun because some of the children was funny and all of them like it because i made them learn mauihero.
February 6th, 2009 at 4:26 pm
The challege day experience during hoku was very fun.Talking to the 7th graders was fun cuz we were teaching them a certain subject like I got the subject “IMAGE”.At first the 7th graders were quiet they wouldn’t answer the questions but when we moved to the other groups and they started answering.I enjoyed the challenge day hoku alot cuz I like sharing what I learned cuz it helps others learn.
February 6th, 2009 at 4:17 pm
The challenge day exprerince for me was something new i never experiecnced it in my life. The ohter day we had a booster rally with the 7th graders and i thought that it was super cool seeing all my friends changing it really surprised me me in a big way. This makes me feel that if they can change and have confidence in themselves then i can do it also.
Tiana-Maui Hero
February 6th, 2009 at 4:13 pm
Hi iam Tita and iam a Maui Hero at Lokelani school. Well a couple days before we had a booster rally with our 7th graders and it was fun. So i am hoping to have another one with more people.
BE THE CHANGE!!!
love, Tita
February 6th, 2009 at 4:09 pm
hi there im part of the maui hero . two days ago we had a little mini booster rally with few seventh graders . there is about 11 mentors in our class , we all had a part . my script was The Be The Man Box . We had partners , as you can see that be the man box is basically about guys. i was asigned to do this because this made the guys really show there feelings and i was there to show how the girls have feelings too . we had about 4 students in a group, us the mentors rotated . this was a really good experience because in our world today there is many things that needs to be changed, like bullying, gossip and stuff like that. so yeahh this experience was really good cause the students showed us at the end that they really learned something . it was really fun . im really excited for the next booster rally we have !
love,
Maui Hero, Tele =)
February 6th, 2009 at 3:59 pm
I am a Maui Hero, as an 8th grader. There are 11 of us as i have informed you before. (all the way down in september) Well, I call them my second family. We all still follow through trying to get the message across to the other 7th graders, as well as the 6th graders. Two days ago (Feb. 4, 2009) we had an activity with certain 7th graders picked by they’re challenge day leaders, from challege day. Us mentor’s had different things we had to share with the 7th graders. My topic was Habits & Cliques. Well, we had rotations so we made sure that everyone got covered with everyones topic. At the end the 7th graders had a sheet to fill out asking certain questions about the activity. All of they’re responses were amazing. It showed that we moved them in a way. I didnt even expect to teach them THAT much. I felt that our activity was powerfull. We have something called a Booster Rally for our 8th graders in a couple weeks. Im really excited to open up to them. I miss Kekoa&Sela. Me & my fellow Maui Hero’s arent giving up. Were following through with this. <3
Love always,
A Proud Maui Hero, Pele.
February 6th, 2009 at 3:46 pm
what i thought about challenge day was very awsome everyone trusted us to keep there secret ……………. challenge day help me with me with my stress and problem that no one ever know about me………
love,
asilika
a.k.a. lika
February 6th, 2009 at 12:26 pm
I attended Challenge Day last year at Westerville Central and had the opportunity to help start a Be The Change club at my high school, Westerville North. This year, February 2-5, Challenge Day came to my school, I went February 4th and absolutley loved it all over again. It felt so much more effective this year since I got to go with students I attend school with, it just meant alot more to me. I am forever grateful. <3
February 6th, 2009 at 11:40 am
Challenge Day has completely changed the way I look at myself and others. Now that I know that I am not alone and that there are other people in the same situations as myself, I feel more comfortable talking to them about it. Challenge day has opened my eyes and i opened up to others. Challenge day was the best day of my life. I’am so thank full for the people who started challenge day and who are involved in challenge day.
February 6th, 2009 at 11:07 am
I bought lunch for a homeless person and paid the tolls for two people behind me on the bridge
February 6th, 2009 at 10:25 am
I have bought coffee for the person behind me each time I have gone through the drive thru at Tim Horton’s this week….cashier recognized me this morning and said she has loved being my middleman….I love it too…
February 5th, 2009 at 5:41 pm
I know that probably everyone says this that challenge day truly changed them. But, honestly it really changed my perspective on life. Now as I walk down the halls of my high school, I can feel a major difference. I have seen the troubles that everyone has experienced in their life and now it is the most amazing feeling watching everyone experience everything together as a whole school. The relationships I mended and created on challenge day have helped me to become closer with each and every person in my school. I know I will never forget challenge day! P.S. thank you Devon and Sean for changing my life and my school!
February 5th, 2009 at 9:45 am
yesterday i helped someone in my school that is in a wheelcheer get from one place in the school to another.
February 5th, 2009 at 12:28 am
I just read all 500-Blog entries!!!! Wow, I am inspired and deeply humbled by everyone’s commitment to Being the Change. Now I have lots of good ideas!!
February 4th, 2009 at 11:36 pm
We held a follow up activity today led by our Be the Change/Maui Hero teen mentors. They wrote and rehearsed scripts based on Challenge Day concepts, such as comfort zone, habits, be a man/lady flower and image all focused around the theme of cliques. Our Hero/ines met with 35-students identified as needing more support through our Sept 2008 Challenge Days. Each mentor team of 2-8th graders rehearsed their piece and presented it to a group of 7-7th graders for six minutes. Then all the mentors rotated groups until every 7th grader heard all the presentations, so each team presented 5-times. It was amazing to witness! Some mentors even dressed up like a lady flower or a be a man (no icebergs here on Maui though)!! The counselors and I just sat back and watched the process unfold. After the mentor teams presented their piece about three times, we took the scripts from them…much to their surprise!! We were all a bit anxious for a minute and then something truly magical happened. The mentors began to reach out beyond the script with their eyes and their arms and their hearts and make real connections with the younger students. They began speaking from their own experience about their topics. Dialogues began and we saw our mentors mature right in front of our very eyes. By the end, that Challenge Day “feeling” was back again. That “look” was in everyone’s eyes. We were all way stoked! Thanks for giving us a place to share our experience. Aloha from Maui…The Maui Hero Project- Circle of Change
February 4th, 2009 at 5:47 pm
I really appreciated the challenge day today at my school. i just want to thank you so much for having me let my feelings out about my biggest problem i have been holding back from everyone. ever since i was 8 my mom and dad split up and it was really hard for me to go to school and think about what’s goin to happen when i get home. why it’s my fault they split up and my fault that they are fighting.. my dad and step dad beat me everyday. im 15 years old and am growing stronger each time i say i can make it through this. i have hope in my life that i will make it through everything. i watch over my little sister who has to suffer from a.d.d/a.h.d/ people at school couselors told my mom that she was stupid, retarded. and it hurt my mom so much. i know that shes not. i love her to death. shes the angel in my eyes that keeps me from thinking of commiting suicide. ♥shes my world.♥
February 4th, 2009 at 5:21 pm
Yesterday a young man called my office. As I listened to him, I noticed I felt it would be better for him if we were talking in person, so I asked him if he was available to come in to talk instead of have the conversation over the telephone. He was, he came in, and appreciated the invitation.
February 4th, 2009 at 2:30 pm
This changed my life. Before this I used to go around judging people on how they look and what they wear instead of actually getting to know them. After this I will never do that again. I plan to apologize to anyone who I have ever put down or made feel bad about themselves. This also made me realize that I’m not the only one dealing with the problems I’m dealing with. There are other people going through the same things as me. Before this I felt that I shouldn’t be around and that everyone would be better off without me. I even thought about suicide. This program made me realize I am accepted and I am loved by the people around me, and for that I can’t be greatful enough for. I will remember this for the rest of my life. Thank you so much for making a differene in my life and a difference in other peoples lives!
February 4th, 2009 at 9:50 am
We have been very busy here in Williams Lake. I must say, I am overwhelmed with the way that our community has embraced Challenge Day. Just recently, our local newspaper agreed to put the Acts of Kindness/Change Certificates in the local newspaper with instructions on how the certificates work. They are making them a cut out and are urging residents to perform positve acts of change in our own community. Not only that, but they are also creating a “blog” on their website, so community members can blog their acts of change. Then, the newspaper will put some of these acts in the newspaper. Very cool. Also, we have started teaching the Challenge Day curriculum in both of our highschools. We are having our first Challenge Day this month and some of the kids who were not picked to attend were very dissappointed. They are going to our school counsellors and asking to be put on the list for the Challenge Days we are holding in December. They don’t want to miss it! My daughter and I just completed an article for the Canadian Mental Health magazine called Visions Journal, recounting our own experiences with bullying. It was an amazing journey writing that article. When we were done, I emailed my contact there and told her about what we were doing as a pro-active solution (Challenge Day), and now it looks like they may include a side bar to our article, talking a bit about Challenge Day and providing contact and website information so other communities can learn about it. I also read about a very bad incident of bullying in White Horse, so I wrote a letter to the editor letting them know about Challenge Day and how it could positively affect their community as well. They phoned me and are putting my letter in their newspaper and giving them my contact information in case any one is interested in the program! AND CBC Radio-BC Almanac have contacted me regarding Challenge Day, they were impressed that so many Challenge Days were happening around the province of British Columbia. So, they will be contacting me near the end of the month to find out more about Challenge Day. I just can’t stop talking about this program!
February 3rd, 2009 at 5:53 pm
THANKS JYOTI AND CHRIS YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST<33
February 3rd, 2009 at 5:51 pm
I go to BMS in hyannis,MA. I went to challenge day and it was great. I let so many emotions out. Not that much people get teased orbullied now. I stop it if i can theres been a BIG change. I’m actually in Be the change. We have onme in my school. If they have one at your school, you should definately join it!
February 3rd, 2009 at 4:21 pm
Evergreen Junior High School just had 2 Challenge Days. I was the coordinator. I never thought that it would be such a powerful experience for all. Students, faculty, and community members were so excepting of each other. Everyone is longing for more. Some of the CD participants met today to make plans to keep Challenge Day alive. I feel like every time I mention something about Challenge Day, I want to do more. I wear a ring that says, “be the change you wish to see in the world.” It has become my motto. My commitment to the Be the Change movement is to continue to spread acts of change and make positive connections with the people around me.
February 2nd, 2009 at 11:33 am
I enjoyed challenge day when it arrived at H.L.Bourgeois for the first time. i was nervous at first, but many of the students opened up very well. I learned more about my friends and my community. i hope that there will be more challenge days at bourgeois to come and i just want to say thanks to Bereniece and Khayree as they helped HL Bourgeois change for the better.
February 1st, 2009 at 7:41 pm
Challenge Day has completely changed the way I look at myself and others. Now that I know that I am not alone and that there are other people in the same situations as myself, I feel more comfortable talking to them about it. It is also nice to know that complete strangers are nice enough to come comfort me with a hug when I am crying. And I love that there is a teacher that I can now feel comfortable talking to if I need them. I loved Challenge Day and I would do it again in a heart beat.
Thank you guys so much,
January 31st, 2009 at 5:26 pm
I bought lunch for a homeless person standing outside Taco Bell
January 30th, 2009 at 3:37 pm
I made little thank you goodie bags and included a handwritten thank you card with a personal message of gratitude for 6 facilitators of an upcoming Challenge Day at Diablo View
January 28th, 2009 at 9:57 pm
I paid for the parking for a few people behind me at college. The attendant didn’t know what to do and I had to explain a few times to just tell the people behind me their parking is paid and give them the pay it forward card.
January 27th, 2009 at 11:30 pm
Yesterday I decorated my special friends’ house for an Oprah viewing party. (The episode featuring the Challenge Day founders helping teens struggling with obesity). I thought it was such a small thing, but they appreciated it SO much! Just goes to show you that it’s often the little things we do that can make a big difference to others!
January 27th, 2009 at 7:09 pm
i went to challenge day today,
it was crazy, i never thought that our school could get this connected, some of the people that said what they said really amazed me, at first i thought it was just going to be all crying and whatnot, but it turned out to be one of the best days of my life, i wouldn’t trade it for any other day.
January 27th, 2009 at 5:41 pm
Today CK McClatchy High was invited to go see two people from the Be The Change program (Jake & Sela) and I am still in shock as to what happend. Honestly, that was the most moving thing to ever happen in my life and I’m sure many kids feel the same. Trust is a big issue for me and to tell complete strangers my life stroy was a big improvment for me. People who literally hated each other apologized to one another and kids who felt like no one understood them had 50 kids going through the same thing. I did NOT expect this when I got the permission slip, but what I got in return is just insane. Now I have the upmost respect for everyone and that just feels right. I wanna thank Jake and Sela for doing this for us and I’m completely grateful for the Be The Change program. <3
January 27th, 2009 at 4:19 pm
After watching the 2 broadcasts on Oprah, I immediately shared and asked similiar questions to my children, nieces and nephews. I know it made a difference in my life as well as theirs. I would love to start something similar in my community to help teens as well. I also posted the question ” If you really knew me… on my facebook challenging my friends to release whatever is inside to share. Thanks for this awesome program
January 27th, 2009 at 4:09 pm
Challenge day came to my high school (H.L.Bourgeois High School Houma Louisiana) yesterday and today. I was apart of the Be The Change here and we helped get our peers pumped up for Challenge Day. I can not explain how amazing the program is. I have never experienced such a life changing event and I am so greatful that my school had this event. It helped open my eyes to so many things that were going on in others lives and it truely amazed me today to see everyone that particpated in Challenge Day to take what they learned and to apply it to our other peers who had not signed up for the change. It was an amazing experience and one that i will never forget. Thanks for bringing this together and showing us that we can make a difference. We are changing the world, one step at a time.
January 27th, 2009 at 10:26 am
I watched this amazing organization on Oprah, and had an anger session with one of my mentors following the show.
January 27th, 2009 at 5:42 am
i just went to a challenge day yesterday; and i walked in open minded and ready for anything. this was a life changing experience. i’d love to be more involved. and i hope we can get more kids to go through the process. it gave me a whole new look on life.
i love you jyotie and sean
January 26th, 2009 at 10:23 pm
I bought flowers for my partner
January 26th, 2009 at 6:45 pm
Jyoti & Sean — What an AWESOME day. How interesting to watch teens let the wall down. hopefully it was powerful enough to keep them thinking beyond the day. hopefully they have the tools necessary to be the change.
January 26th, 2009 at 6:27 pm
Every time I’m tempted to leave the empty toilet paper roll for the next person to take care of, I think “Be the change, Naomi…” and I change it.
January 26th, 2009 at 4:21 pm
I told my friend sorry for not understand how he used his time :)!
January 26th, 2009 at 1:56 pm
Friday, 2pm as I drove home I noticed a kid sitting on the corner. I thought ” he must be waiting for some friends” At 3:30 I drove down the hill and he was still sitting on the corner. It had begun to lightly rain. I made a u-turn and asked if he was OK? He was waiting for his ride, they should be coming. At 5pm, he is still there and I stop and ask “Are you sure your friends are on thier way? It has been 3 hours” He’s pretty sure they are. 7:20, raining and cold, I drive down the hill to dinner and he is sitting under an awning to keep dry and warm. (His pants soaked from the rain) I stop and say “Do you realize you have been sitting here for 5 hours? What happened to your friends? Do you have a phone to call them? Can I lend you my phone? I ask him to get into the car and out of the rain. He asks if I could just drive him to the nearest gas station so he can use a telephone book. Long story short, great conversation, He was from Hoover (Birmingham) Alabama with a group of young adults who were selling magazines in the neighbohrhood. He was 5 minutes late getting to his pick up spot because he had spent time talking to the person who placed his last order. He assumed since he wasnt there, the van went to pick up the other kids who were scattered in different towns. He did not have a cell phone or a phone number contact for the “lead” gal. Only assumed they would eventually come back to get him. He knew the name of his hotel and he knew the street it was on, but did not know what city it was located in. ( turns out in Santa Clara) He shared his story willingly and asked I not judge him in doing so…I told him he was in the right car! He got connect to the magazine sales out of desperation for a job. He was a recovering alcoholic who was 22 (he looked like 17!) Had been sober since July. He wanted so much to stay on path as difficult as it was. I took him to the gas station and told him there were many warm places with food here and said he should probably stay indoors until he can make his connection (he was going to call the hotel to get the number of the gal) and get something warm to eat…he said where would be the best place to go with $7? I pulled out a $20 and said he should eat well, and he could use the remainder in case he needed a taxi somewhere. I also gave him my number in case things didnt work out and he was stuck, I would be happy to help him further. He thanked me for being nice to him. I told him this town is full of nice people and he agreed he had met some this day…he also said “there are some however, who just dont like magazines” a kind way I thought of stating the obvious! I worried a bit about him after the fact, but my daughter, bless her soul said “Mom, you did a nice thing, and you dont need to worry about him anymore because if he is still lost, someone else will be there to help him the rest of the way…..tears filled my eyes…..He DID reach his destination and did so with a full tummy and a chance for his clothes to dry.
January 25th, 2009 at 5:25 pm
I did all the dishes in the kitchen sink without being asked to. It put a big smile on my mom’s face!
January 24th, 2009 at 5:14 pm
Hey Ray Ray and Deven Thank you sooo much for coming to my school[parkland middle school} you taught me sooooo much its not even funny. I realized things about other prople that I did not relize before I found the other side of people that I have been looking for. I can not thank you enough but I think it is great that you could come I will NEVER forget you and i am so excided to be able to do it again. PLEASE come back. I Love You I got your back and I support you
Love you both Hailey
January 24th, 2009 at 2:14 pm
I wrote appreciation notes to my favorite middle school teachers telling them how grateful I am for their support and engaging classes during those formative years.
January 23rd, 2009 at 12:33 am
2008 was the most difficult year of my life, thus far. I spent it dwelling on the pain, hurt, and mistakes. I have been staying with a great friend for the last few weeks (whom I met through Challenge Day) and she has been showing me and reminding me everyday of what am amazing person I am and also what amazing people I am surrounded by. Thanks Amb!!
All my love~Iz~
January 22nd, 2009 at 10:48 pm
PAM and TONY you two made me realize that differences don’t matter, especially with friends, and that we should focus on the things we have in common with each other. My teacher has a poster of Ghandi that says “be the change you want to see in the world” but it never seemed possible or ever meant anything to me until you said it at challenge day. So I’m going to work on myself and BE the change, I’m GOING to drop my water line one step at a time so I can be more honest with myself and others. THANK YOU!! Thanks for coming to Provo, Utah. GO INDEPENDENCE HIGH!! woop woop.
January 22nd, 2009 at 9:24 pm
i never want to lose the inspiration i took from challenge day… reading all of these acts of change reminds me of it at times when i have forgotten it
January 22nd, 2009 at 12:52 pm
we had challenge day yesterday and everyone was emotional and it was very touching and it made a
hhhhhhuuuuuuuggggggeeeeee change at our school which is lansing middle school!!!!!!!
January 22nd, 2009 at 12:43 am
We bought dinner for a homeless person at Buger King - He seemed very grateful!
January 21st, 2009 at 7:35 pm
DELSEA Middle school Franklinville, N.J 1/15/09-As I told Angela that day ‘You changed my life and I know will help me be a better father to all my children. Vinnie you are the best and I thank you both .I have been asked to speak to our school board on behalf of “the program” and will be shortly to hope to help to have this every year. I can’t think of a single thing thta would be more important then have every student involed in it. Again thanks, Sincerly Raymond brown
January 20th, 2009 at 3:40 pm
I am excited I am in Lindale High School In East Texas By Tyler and Lufkin and we’re moved here from The Colony and Dallas of North Texas we’re moved to the old house in Lindale and move to the new house on July 2007
I got good day
January 20th, 2009 at 11:05 am
I love my school Lindale high school i went to challenge day and all the sophmores made a packed to stick together and be the change in our class and have each others back through
anything and it was just amazing how our class can go from having nothing in common to having a lot. It’s just such amazing thing and we are going to keep the sprit that we have and the love for each other that we had at challenge day with us all in our hearts and we have sela and kekoa to thank for that!!2
January 20th, 2009 at 9:12 am
I am ALLOWING LOVE in my life.
January 19th, 2009 at 5:29 pm
Go Fisher Middle School!
Kudos to Elisa and all of the staff and students for continuing to Be the Change!
I attended Fisher’s Challenge Day and will always remember that amazing, eye-opening, wonderful experience! THANK YOU!
January 19th, 2009 at 2:08 pm
We had a free hugs week which included: a return of the hug demonstration, free hug booth, getting and giving as many hugs as possible daily, hug t-shirt making booth, Yukon’s biggest group hug in beach attire. It reakky o8ucjed everyone up before exams and after the -40 temperatures!
January 18th, 2009 at 12:37 pm
I made an effort to notice who was sitting by herself at my daughter’s hockey game and we ended up having a very nice conversation. I have also been making an effort to look (and really see) people as I talk to them - especially my own family. I offer hugs more frequently and it isn’t as scary as I thought!!!
January 17th, 2009 at 2:16 pm
Challenge day was just awesome. It made me realize that I don’t appreciate and love my younger brother as I should. When I got home that day I gave him the biggest hug ever! I also started taking my dog for daily walks to make her life that much more enjoyable!
January 16th, 2009 at 12:35 pm
I am so proud of our school! Fisher Middle School has started a food pantry and a program called, “Send Hunger Packing.” Students volunteered to fill the food backpacks for other students to take home. WAY TO BE THE CHANGE FISHER!!!
January 16th, 2009 at 7:40 am
oh my gosh i realized how many people r like me … everybudy got inti depth and 87 out of 90 kids were crying cristi..b and jake were great ……….. there stories made me cry
ive made many mistakes but i said sorry and it felt great i got closer to my friends and teachers ! it was the best expiereience of my life
January 16th, 2009 at 7:21 am
Today I went into all of my homeroom classes and asked the kids to sign a contract to commit to continue to be the change. We’re going to post the contracts in our rooms to remind us. If we do this it’s going to be one of the best years!
January 15th, 2009 at 6:22 pm
challenge day changed my life. it changed me. thank you so much. Pam and Chris are awesome. I had such a great time and realized so much. i had one amazing day, at pemberton township high school. Pam you were so cool and awesome. Chris nice hugs hahhaa. thanks guys. i will remeber that day forver
January 15th, 2009 at 4:10 pm
Thanks so much for visting our school. this exprience was:
-AMAZING
-WONDERFULL
-EYE-OPENING
-and so much more
Vinny and Angela were great. they made you feel as if they were your best friend since kindergarden.. i felt that i knew them and they knew me too.
Thankyou so much…
“you cannot change the world, unless you chanfe yourself”
be the change
January 15th, 2009 at 8:14 am
hiiiiiii i love pam and chris
January 14th, 2009 at 4:04 pm
Challenge day was such a success at my school! I have been having a lot of trouble keeping my head up lately and it felt so good to be able to get things off my chest and talk to other people who are like me. I just want to say that this has helped me so much and I am eternally grateful. I know that I speak for everyone who went to challenge dya when I say that this was an AAAAAAmazing day!
January 14th, 2009 at 3:02 pm
I went to challenge day december 3rd at my school Dennis Yarmouth Regional. I remeber walking into the gym thinking it was just a day to get out of classes. I honestly didn’t think it would get so emotional. I love the music they played during our family groups, Auntie Nola and RayRay were amazing. They really helped pull classmates and teachers together for the three days they were here. They made us laugh and feel like we were all family. They opened up and let us in and were always there to give you a hug if you needed one. They made us feel like a big family. I’m definitely doing it again next year.
January 14th, 2009 at 7:10 am
I went out of my way to pick up some bottle I found in the bushes and recycled them
January 13th, 2009 at 1:46 pm
The CMS Be the Change Club is always working to do something for others….
Jonathan complimented his dad for his knoledge of random facts.
Ebria gave her sister gum.
Alina complimented her mom for a meal.
Elysia gave 5 compliments.
Subham told a friend, “nice shirt.”
Brian complimented his mom’s scrambled eggs!
Rashika held the door for a boy with a lot of books.
Mrs Scibienski wrote a note thanking a friend for her great friendship.
January 13th, 2009 at 10:39 am
Today I purposely went to Starbucks to bring my coworker a Carmel Apple Spice because I know how much she loves them but never splurges on them herself. She was so appreciative (even though she already had her own coffee). HUGE SMILE!!!!!
January 12th, 2009 at 7:53 pm
I told the public bus driver in my neighborhood “Thank You” for being such a good driver. People hardly ever interact with the bus drivers around here, so I could see by the smile on his face that he really appreciated it.
January 12th, 2009 at 6:32 pm
Today was my first challenge day, and I must admit it was AMAZING.
I was told it was going to be a little ‘cry fest’ and I figured I would just get the day out of class. :/
Well, after today I sat down and thought over everything I have said or done that I think I should change, and now I am going to try to put it into motion.
I really feel that this challenge day was my motivation. :]
January 12th, 2009 at 5:35 pm
I took the time to help my little sister with her ipod that she’s been asking me to do forever. Evereytime she had asked me I was busy. Today I was busy also, but I decided to take time out and show her how to do it.
January 12th, 2009 at 11:58 am
One of the angel-participants at our Next Step Workshop made and wrapped cookies for us all to take home with us. I gave mine to the lady behind the hotel counter when we checked out. She gave me the biggest smile and asked me three times “are you sure these are for me?” I assured her they were and thanked her for the job she does. Who knew that a couple of cookies could be such a big deal! I’m gonna do more of this!
January 9th, 2009 at 1:00 pm
For the first time in a long time I actually had enough money to get Xmas gifts for all my family members. When I was leaving Wal-mart the salvation santa was outside and I thought about how much I had spent inside and then just as if I was tipping a wait person I multiplied how much I had spent on my family by 20% and put that much into his container. I decided then and there that when ever I see a homeless person or donation booth set up I will do the same for them. What ever I spent I will tip them 20%.
January 9th, 2009 at 11:46 am
My nephew was having some serious issues @ home & needed a place to stay, to be loved up, to find himself SOOOO I took him in!!! Now I have 2 17 year olds living with me… I’m thankful that they looked towards me & my family as a place to run to in such an important time in their lives.
January 8th, 2009 at 7:07 pm
In the last two days i have been a completly different person. i have been helping people out all over town. I have been saying please and thank you. I havent made fun of anyone. i have realized that everyone is the same we all have the same problems. i respect my mom and the rest of my family more for what they give to me and what they do for me then what i ever have before. i feel like a completely different person from the inside. i normaly hate to give hugs to people but i have been giving about 100 hug a day which is really good. today i seen someone making fun of someone else i could not figure out why he was doing it. i walked up to them and ask him why he was making fun of josh and all he could say was because josh was different. i had to ask him what was so different about josh then your self? he couldnt answer my question. i told hom to leave the kid olone and he did i gave josh a big hug when the other kid left and i told him that it was ok and he did nothing wrong to deserve that. it was not his failt and one day he would learn not to make fun of people. I told him that if he ever needed to talk that i would be here and if he ever needed to cry that i would be a sholder for him to cry on. i told him that anything you tell me will be confidential and that i would not tell anyone. i made him a promise. After i walked away from him it made me feel really good about my self to have changed and to be there when he needed me. I fell alot better know that i can hekp anyone that i want to.
January 8th, 2009 at 2:19 pm
Today, in the staffroom, I sat down with a teacher who I don’t often interact with. I avoid him as he is a bit grumpy and often negative about kids. I looked for something to talk about that we have in common. Our sons are the same age and go to school together so I started in on that. I listened to lots of negative, but without judging or even trying to change the subject. I just kept listening as he had lots to say. To my surprise, he emptied his balloon and made a u-turn into the positive. If I really knew him, I would have known this side of him. Now I do.
January 3rd, 2009 at 11:26 pm
Today when I went to the grocery store there was a couple outside collecting money for a homeless shelter. I am very intentional about my giving and always research the organizations I give to, so I didn’t give them any money, but I talked to them and told them to have a great day. They were so appreciative that someone took the time to chat with them even though I didn’t give. It was a good feeling not to brush by them in a hurry and to share a smile!
December 30th, 2008 at 12:40 am
I used the new acts of change cards and paid the toll of the person behind me. It was fun to see the toll keepers reaction to the cards and the gesture
December 28th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
Yesterday I made a sincere effort to connect with every cashier or working person that we ran across. I know what it’s like to work retail during the Christmas season, and I can’t imagine that it’s been a lot of fun for them to come to work and hear so much bad news about sales (and see it, too). It felt really good to chat with people. At one store, I asked a woman (cashier) how she was doing and she turned to her co-worker and said, “I really love it when customers ask *us* that!” Then we chatted for a few more minutes. It felt great.
December 24th, 2008 at 4:58 am
I worked with my family to create Good news celebrastions! Rich
December 24th, 2008 at 12:35 am
Today was my birthday, and for a present all i asked for was a kitten. At first my mom thought about it, but she didn’t quite give back a reply. Well, because of health issues in my household, to get a kitten, was not exactly an option. For me, a kitten was more of a friend. Someone i was garrenteed to be there for me. So, for my birthday, she got me the same exact kitten i asked for, but in stuffed animal form. I opened it and just bursted into tears, i don’t quite know why i got emotional about it, but i just ran down to my room .. and my mom took it offensively. But i came back upstairs, apologized, and told her he was wonderful. I knew that I could have stayed in my room, and just went to bed, without even saying goodnight .. but i also knew that if something happened to her, and i would have never seen her again, i would have not been able to live with myself for that. I would not have been able to live with the fact that i didn’t say thank you, or i love you before i went to bed. Thank you Challenge Day, for making me realize, that everyday, can mean a lifetime.
December 23rd, 2008 at 2:50 pm
I bought lunch for a friend who didn’t have any money on her after we spent four hours doing a gift wrapping fundraiser at Borders. She insisted on paying me back, but I happily resisted!
December 23rd, 2008 at 3:40 am
my name is ian and i go to Franklin high school in elk grove CA and at the moment i am a leader in
the be the change group at my school and so far ive been to three challenge days and i no that each
one has changed my life in more then one way, my first challenge day i went in with a poor attitude
bc i really didnt want to be there but as the day went on and i began telling my story and heard the
lives of the others in my group, i began to relize that im not much different then everyone i thought
was. i admit that i had some bad habits, i was never out going, i never talked to anyone, i even was
hurting myself, but after my first challenge day it all changed, i let it out. i cried so hard that i
didnt even know who i was anymore i was really a changed person and now i feel like my life is just
better. i hope that every kid gets some kind of chance to see challenge day for themselves.
December 21st, 2008 at 11:39 pm
I went out of my way to share more than 10 intentional true compliments today. It was fun to see people’s reactions.
December 21st, 2008 at 11:02 pm
Last week my students brought so much food to our end-of-semester party, that we couldn’t get through it all. One chocolate cake was left completely untouched. My students have to take the bus and didn’t want to bring it with them, and so they gave it to me. I wasn’t sure what to do with it, either–how would I polish off an entire double layer chocolate cake? Then I thought of the photocopying dept at my school. They process so many photocopy orders and they largely hear nothing but complaints because the machines, which are old, break down often. (This is, of course, a budget issue–not their fault!). So I enlisted the help of a custodian and set it up so that they would have the chocolate cake with a note from me in the morning. I felt like a Secret Santa! They appreciated it.
December 21st, 2008 at 10:16 am
I went out last night around the city of San Francisco and since I didn’t have much to offer out of my pockets, when I saw homeless people, I gave them hugs. I even sat down with 2 homeless people after dancing last night around 2am and listened to their stories and them held onto them real tight when we hugged goodbye.
December 20th, 2008 at 11:52 pm
Today while I was shopping at the mall a guy in line behind me at Chipolte came up and gave me a coupon for a free burrito. There’s a saying: “You get what you give.” Maybe all my little acts of change that I’ve done for people are suddenly coming back to me.
December 20th, 2008 at 8:23 pm
challenge day is awesome. highland highschool will be changed for the better and i want to thank jon & katie for being the amazing people they are! yous have the biggest hearts in this world and yous are awesome thank you for coming to my school!
December 19th, 2008 at 10:55 pm
I gave a listening ear to a friend in need, even when I should’ve been studying for finals. I stepped it up and supported her in a way I didn’t even think I was capable of. I’m proud!
December 19th, 2008 at 8:14 pm
I brought my religion teacher a present and a card today telling her how schools and students like me need more teachers like her, how she has engaged me so much in her class and in education in general. I dropped the water line and gave her my full appreciation, I can’t wait to hear her reaction; she deserved it
December 19th, 2008 at 7:07 pm
I didn’t make my son feel bad when he wasn’t able to attend an event that I had been looking forward to for months, even though I was disappointed. I told him I loved him and I understood, and look forward to being able to share his company real soon. I’m glad that I made it easier for my son to live his own life, without nagging or throwing guilt around. I must say, I’m a great Mom.;o)
December 19th, 2008 at 6:57 pm
One of the things I love about being a Challenge Day Leader is that I get to see the students in the rooms find thier voice, let go of the stories that have held them back, and walk in thier power with love and humility. It is so awesome. To see them apologise for some of the things they may have said to hurt others and to make these heartfelt commitments to do it different from now on, just warms my heart and inspires me to continue doing this work, no matter where it takes me. Thank you Rich and Yvonne for being the first stone and creating a beautiful ripple that is ever growing and spreading love all over the world. I love you and I am so glad that you are my playmates in this beautiful sandbox called Challenge Day.
December 19th, 2008 at 10:39 am
I feel honored to be part of the St.John family.
Thank you Auntie Kim for including me in your prayers.
Love you,
Nat
December 19th, 2008 at 10:37 am
I am waking up with delight everyday. That’s an act of change for the people around me.
Also, because I know my roommate likes when I do nice things for her, last night I cleaned the house. I straightened up, cleaned the bathroom, did all the dishes, put them away, and swept. I kept the Christmas lights on this morning so when she gets in this afternoon she will be filled with light, love and the Christmas spirit. I really love her and like that I get to do these types of things for her.
December 19th, 2008 at 2:34 am
Yesterday at Hammonton High in New Jersey I went to challenge day thinking I would not cry and it would be dumb. Turns out I was the dumb one. It was amazing and I cried so much. I have never felt so many people for no more or less then the others around them and now know I’m not so alone. I blieve it may hve even saved my life. Thank ken and Ray Ray. I will try to be the change and won’t forget what I have learned. <3 Smile and hugs everyday =]
December 18th, 2008 at 8:52 pm
A couple of month ago i was the same old haylei i walked around the school with my head held high. And thats good to alot of people. but not for me. I walk around and i judge i look at what they look like and what there wearing before i get to know them. I gossip and i tease. A few months ago challenge day came to our school. I was involved. I walked in the gym and judged i looked around and i was ready to walk back out. I was thinking “oh wow what did i get myself into, what did i agree to” thorough out the day i hugged people who i couldn’t even tell you the names of. people i look at in the hallway and the first thing i do is judge. When i walked out of that gym at the end of the day my head was pounding from all the crying. the day was intense. and as hard as it was for me i can now say i am different. I am willing to be the change. to make a difference and stand out. I want to thank everyone at challenge day. you changed my life forever. i don’t look at people the same. I sit down at tables with people i have never talked to before. I smile at people in the hallway who i use to make fun of. Thank you . and i hope i get an experience like that again.
December 18th, 2008 at 4:53 pm
Wow! Northern High School in Greensboro, NC, just finished the last of 4 days of CD. What an unbelievable experience for the student body. We are a new high school of just 1 1/2 years. Juniors, sophomores and freshman make up our student body. The parents and PTSA that helped bring this to the school have been working on it for almost 2 years. The students were amazing, the adults were fabulous and the CD instructors were phenomenal. The students cannot wait for CD to come back, especially those that were not able to attend. Hopefully it will happen sooner rather than later. What an exciting time in the short history of this new high school. I believe that this
school “can be the change we wish to see in the world”. Thanks to everyone that was a part of this wonderful experience.
December 18th, 2008 at 4:39 pm
wow…….
thats all i can say!!!
we held a Challange Day at Northern Guilford High school
I would go all over again…..
I AM THE CHANGE!!
December 18th, 2008 at 9:20 am
my school has had challenge day come here for 3 years now and all three years i went.every year my eyes open to something else.every year so far iv met up with old friends that i used to be tight with that i have gone separate ways with and now are friends with them again.its REALLY opened my eyes to everyones hurt.challenge day has taught me how to confort people when they most need it and what to look for if someone is down and they try to hide it.sence challenge day came into my life im more open with my feelings,and im more real.my school just had a challenge day recently and my girlfriend and i were in a fight.it helped us calm down and clear our minds and talk it out.im sooo thankful for this like you have no idea.its inspired me and encouraged me to not settle being the victim in my life anymore and to take control of my life.
December 18th, 2008 at 12:49 am
I volunteered to lead thre programs for a very active Circle of Change. It felt great to support them
December 17th, 2008 at 9:27 pm
I am making extra special time to spend with my birthmother for Christmas this year. This will be the first Christmas since our reunion.
December 17th, 2008 at 9:23 pm
I wrapped ALL of our Christmas presents this year to save my mom and my sister time.
I had a blast doing so.
December 17th, 2008 at 9:22 pm
David P., witnessed my car accident on Friday Dec. 12. He said that his daughter was in an accident about 6 months ago and no one stopped. He made a promise to himself that no matter what….if he ever witness a car accident, he would stop. Although he was running late to his business meeting, he still stopped for me. Thanks David. You are awesome!!!!!
December 17th, 2008 at 6:34 pm
challege day was so amazing.can’t wait for next year’s challenge day.made new friends and became a better friend.i told most of my friend that didn’t do it so they would try it next time around. =]
December 17th, 2008 at 5:32 pm
On December 16th, 2008, I was apart of challenge day at Fisher Middle School. Ill admit, when we first walked in, and everyone was cheering and jumping, i thought it was going to be something stupid and something just to get us out of class. In the beginning, we played games and everyone was just crazy but then when it came to breaking into groups and talking about our past, i felt i little weird. then once it came to that line. The first couple catergories weren’t that bad but once they got pretty serious, the tears began to flow. I witnessed so many people crying that i never would have been able to imagine. I never thought so many people around me had gone through just as much as me, and maybe even more. I hugged people and comforted people that ive never even talked to before. And i have to say thank you. Thank you for coming to our school and putting us through this new experience. When i do look back on my life, this is one moment i know im always going to remember. Challenge Day changed my life completely and changed how my outlook on everything and everyone around me. I hope this has effected everyone thats ever been through it because it is definitely something miraculous.
Love always,
Courtney from the 8th grade at Fisher Middle School.
December 17th, 2008 at 4:36 pm
Last Friday I was in the Drive Thru line at Tim Hortons, getting a tea. I was thinking about different acts of kindness that I could do, and being as it is getting close to Christmas, I thought I would buy a gift card and give it to the car behind me. Well, as it turned out I think the cashier at the drive thru line was more exicted! I handed him back the gift card and the Pay it forward card and explained what I wanted him to do, (give the gift card and the pay if forward card to the car behind me), he got so excited about what I was doing and asked me how it worked and thought it was very “cool”. He was thrilled that he was going to get to be a part of this movement! I have no idea how the card behind me felt, I am hoping that they enjoyed my little gift as much as I enjoyed giving it. My gift was seeing the cashier get as excited as me in doing these acts of change!
December 17th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
The other night, my friend wanted me to come to her house and meet a potential roommate, so I did. She said that I could use her computer to do some work that I needed to get done. As the night progressed the potential roommate didn’t show. She asked me to go to dinner with her which I declined because eating out isn’t in my budget, so she offered to pay for my dinner. We went to get some dinner at a Mexican place up the road, so good, and after paying for everything, we forgot that we didn’t get our other friend her burrito. We looked at the clerk with concerned faces because it was closing time. We asked if they had a BCR back there… while they were putting together our burrito we had a really great conversation with the lady at the counter. She ended up giving us the burrito for free. Look, one act of change leads to many more.
December 17th, 2008 at 1:46 pm
I called Mine and Yvonnies mother to day just to tell her how wounderful she is for taking such great care of our father and that I will always be here for her. I send prayers to my my sister Bonnie,Richy Dray , Loli, Rock, Natily and the rest of my family at challengeday!!!I love you all…KimSue : )
December 17th, 2008 at 11:48 am
baked 6 of my special ” Indo, German, Hawaiian, Brazilian coconut FLAN & delivered ( with a pay forward card) to dear unsuspecting friends. YUMMY
Nadia
December 16th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
Since attending my third challenge day, I have written cards to some of my “family” members and intend to write to each one yet. I also pledged to write a card/note to someone special in my life at least once a week! It makes me feel better at the same time - yay!!
December 16th, 2008 at 12:16 am
The other day I had the best day! Everywhere I went I was positive and loving my life! I had great conversations with store clerks, and I even made some grumpy ones smile. That’s the BEST! I came home so grateful and feeling my blessings 100%. And knowing that I didn’t keep it all to myself, but rather shared it with everyone I ran across made it even “more better.”
December 16th, 2008 at 12:13 am
Friday I stopped by a construction site down the street that I drive by every day. All the neighbors have really appreciated how they have kept the site so clean and organized and created very little traffic disruption. I told the guys locking up what a great job they’ve been doing, and that I want to tell the boss how grateful we are. They were so excited that they ran after me to give me a company card. Today I spoke to the president of the company to pass all of this along, and he was so delighted and said that I made his day! I wrote a letter to the company saying all of this (so they’d have it “in writing”!), and wrote a side note telling the president about the Be the Change movement. I told him that this act of change was really EASY for me and I was excited that he said it made his day. I sent him a Pay It Forward card and told him to check out our website!
December 15th, 2008 at 8:16 pm
Volunteered for Challenge Day at Dewey Academy in Oakland! Amazing, inspiring, and humbling experience today.
Thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you!
It was an honor to hold space for the students today, hear their hearts speak, and see them come together
December 15th, 2008 at 8:20 am
When I first saw the Challenge Day episode on Oprah I was very moved by the experience emotionally even if it was through the television. Despite being out of high school for almost nine years, I may suggest we have our own Challenge Day at our 10 year reunion.
December 14th, 2008 at 10:05 pm
I “adopted” a needy child from a shelter for Christmas and went to Toys R’ Us to buy some toys from their wishlist.
December 14th, 2008 at 4:41 pm
on december 10th i was prevlioused to attend challenge day in upperlake calif. it was the most reward
ingexperience an adult or child could possible have i loved it it was an emotional roller coaster all day
day i would do it again in a heartbeat i highly recommend you to check it out
December 12th, 2008 at 4:00 pm
I went to Challenge Day yesterday at Warwick Vets and it was one of the best days of my life. Pam, Vinny, you guys are so inspiring and you truly moved me. I wasn’t happy with who i was or who i was going to be, but now i am because of Challenge Day. It opened my eyes to see that every person deserves a chance and no one deserves to be judged. I did so many things I was afriad of at Challenge Day, I hugged a person I’ve never talked to, I sat on my teacher’s lap! I can barley put in words how much power I feel and how much I want to do now. Challenge Day saved me. Thank you so much, I will remember it for as long as I live.
December 12th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
Yesterday I printed out a huge amount of the Be The Change Movement Cards and put them in all of our staffs mail slots. I then sent around an email letting them all know what the cards were and what I asked them to do. Already, our staff is giving them out to their friends and other staff members, once they complete an act of change. I had one co-worker come up to me and tell me that she got one in her mail slot from another co-worker, just letting her know how much she was admired. Very cool. In addition, I talked to a complete stranger in the grocery store line yesterday and ended up giving her a card. I explained what they were for and the message behind them. She was very moved and then she shocked me by asking me if I would give her a hug. Well of course I did! You should have seen the faces of everyone else in the line. It was awesome. The cashier asked me for one as well! Isn’t it wonderful to see acts of change all across the world!
December 11th, 2008 at 4:12 pm
challege day was so amazing. i wish they can have it agian in a few months. i go to warwick vets memorial high shool, vinnie, pam u guys are amazing. thank you. much love.
December 11th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
Yesterday I attended Challenge Day at Upper Lake High School. Wow! I feel blessed to have been part of it and grateful to have witnessed the amazing changes that took place. It was a day filled with laughter and tears, but most important it was a day filled with hope, kindness and compassion. It was day filled with love and everyone in that room became aware of one very important thing; that we are all connected equally and are more alike than we are different. It was a beautiful day that gave me reason to hope again when everything in the world feels so hopeless and the best part is that our kids, our future, really understand that now. I am so proud of everyone who attended and took part, even those that had a difficult time are sure to take all the love that filled that room and put it in their hearts. They too now know that the future is so bright we gotta wear shades. They too now know that they are never alone in this long and difficult journey called life. Thank you for all you do and a special shout out to Auntie Nola and Randy for being the most positive, loving and awesome facilitators and being vulnerable enough to share their stories.
My love to you all,
Debbie Rivera-Collins
December 10th, 2008 at 5:42 pm
Challenge Day was a beautiful, amazing experience. I stepped into it shaking out of fear that I could not do the challenge, which was to open up and share who I am to complete strangers. I proved that fear wrong by just making the choice to be a part of it. I walked out of challenge day with more love and appreciation for myself and life. I want to help others as much as I can!
December 10th, 2008 at 1:35 pm
I also forgot to say that Challenge Day was the BEST DAY OF MY LIFE !
December 10th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
Today I had Challenge Day come to my school in Warwick, RI USA. It was a lifechanging experience for me. Me and my old worst enemy are now friends! Isnt that crazy. Vinny and Pam were the head of Challenge Day Today. And i would like to thank them with my whole heart thank you so much. I Love You! And I will start being nicer to people starting today. This has changed my life. Thanks so much!
Sincerly,
Karissa Ginaitt
Warwick, RI 02889
December 9th, 2008 at 7:37 pm
Today I simply smiled at someone because I’ve learned that one smile can save a persons life.
December 9th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
My mom and I sat down and talked about all things we want to do together. The first two:
1. Look each other in the eyes for one uninterrupted minute every night.
2. Start reading a book out loud together for 15 minutes every night like we did when I was little. What a great way to let my inner child out to play!
December 9th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
i participated in challenge day today at my school, and i have got to say that it was one of the best days of my life. it was a fantastic experience, and i wish i didn’t have to wait until next year to do it again. i loved everything we did and got to say, and i felt comfortable talking about me and “lowing my water level” which really surprised me because i have always had trouble with that stuff. i was so proud of myself and everyone else there, it was something that i will always remember, but never be able to fully explain! i would like to thank everyone who made it possible, and who was there with me today. i would also love to thank the girl i got the apology from today, because you had hurt me a lot over the years, and although it stopped bugging me years ago, you still hurt me, and it was a really great thing to hear you apologize today, so thank you. i really hope all of the thank yous and apologies given today were sincere b/c they meant a lot to a lot of people.
December 9th, 2008 at 6:47 am
I left a packet of hot cocoa on my co-worker’s desk because I know she loves it!
Go CMS Be the Change! The Change is GOOD!
December 8th, 2008 at 5:33 pm
Today I went to a Challenge Day for the 3 time this year. I had made a appriciation speach to someone who help make me the person I am today. I aslo challenged my high school fellow student to do the same because it means alot to people mor than we think. I felt really good today because of Challenge Day.
December 8th, 2008 at 5:20 pm
Hi my name is stephanie and i go to lowerlake highschool and my act of change is that when i walked
out of that room i had resepct for other people and i made new friends even though i was to afriad before
Iam here to thank each and evryone of you cause this day today has been the greatest day of my life
and i will be the change i wish to see in this worls sicereley always stephanie trout
December 8th, 2008 at 3:58 pm
Today Andraya, my best friend and co-worker did all of the dishes in the Challenge Day kitchen sink. She hates doing them and she did them so I wouldn’t have to (cuz I usually do them :))
Thanks so much Draya… you are the best in the world!
December 8th, 2008 at 10:22 am
Oops I forgot to tell you what act of of change I did today. I came to my work place where no one hugs and hugged everyone I came into contact with this morning. A couple of people even said that it made their day!
December 8th, 2008 at 10:19 am
WOW what a life changing experience that had this weekend. I miss all of you already. I never understood how difficult it would be to come back to the real world after this but it has been quite a shock. But I just keep repeating to myself, “BE the Change, Be the change, Be the change.” Love and miss all of my friends from Challenge Day Dec. 5, 6 & 7.
December 8th, 2008 at 9:15 am
I have jumped up and helped people when they needed some one to be there
December 6th, 2008 at 4:48 pm
Challenge Day was simply the best day of my life. I went in there thinking oh man what did I get my self in to I dont wanna be here. I changed my opinion real quick. I didnt know why I was sad they helped me figure out what really botherd me and helped me open up to peole and see that I am not the only one has the same problems as me. Thank you Chriss and katie.
December 5th, 2008 at 8:55 pm
It’s the first day of Next Step in Oregon and took the opportunity to once again practice what I preached. I left $5.00 extra to pay for some of the groceries of a couple in line behind me - I left the pay it forward card and both the checker and the couple beamed with appreciation and promised to do the same some time! This stuff works!
December 5th, 2008 at 3:19 pm
Challengeday was a great experience And i challenged everyone to go meet new friends and basically start over
December 5th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
I have picked up trash to help our planet stay safe for others
December 5th, 2008 at 2:02 pm
I have let people know its ok to be yous self and enjoy life
December 4th, 2008 at 11:36 pm
I decided to celebrate my birthday by giving back a bit–I made some Courageous Cards, little cards with affirmations on them. They said things like, “You are Enough” and “The World Needs your gifts” and “You give the world more than you think.” I spent 45 minutes passing out these cards during rush hour at the Powell Street BART (I wore a little sign around my neck saying what I was doing). Several people HUGGED me, which was amazing and such a great gesture. Others took their affirmation and then came back and thanked me. Lots of people wished me a happy birthday. Several seemed genuinely touched. It really felt more like a gift to me than to them, because I felt connected to others in the world.
December 4th, 2008 at 11:34 pm
On my way out of my classroom last night, the janitor smiled big and said good evening. It occurred to me that he does that every week when my class is out at 9:30, and that when he does this, I always feel energized and happy even if I’m really tired. So I went over to him and acknowledged him. We introduced ourselves and it was a great, connected conversation. Then I gave him a cookie leftover from a bevy of cookies a student had brought in!
December 3rd, 2008 at 7:39 pm
challenge day really changed my life. in language class, we are writing a “stop the hate” essay, and i included challenge day.
i had a huge fight with my friend for doing something mean to her (i dont know what), and i was nice to her today.
i luv you, aunty nola!
December 3rd, 2008 at 4:34 pm
I just arrived home from a challenge day at my school. it was the best day of my life. so much love, so much support, so much support, so. much. change. i would recomend anyone thinking about booking a challenge day to go for it. its worth it.
~Aj
December 3rd, 2008 at 3:01 pm
I’ve been looking people in the eye, wherever I go. I notice that when we first make eye contact, their eyes kind of dart away and then they check back to see if I’m still looking. Then I smile. Then they smile. It’s really this nice moment of connection between myself and another human being, and it feels like giving something and receiving something all at the same time, even though it’s just this tiny little thing.
December 3rd, 2008 at 9:48 am
I have encouraged my Mom to volunteer as an Adult Facilitator at a Challenge Day in WI. And a friend and I are going to Jersey next month to volunteer for at least one day, maybe two!
December 2nd, 2008 at 8:50 pm
I coordinated a Challenge Day yesterday and i called each adult facilitator last night to say thank you and how much i appreciated them attending the day.
December 2nd, 2008 at 1:29 pm
We are doing many kind acts here at CMS Be The Change Club, espicially during Thanksgiving.
There are many students that stepped up and became the change.
Ambika made ThanksGiving cards to her parents.
Ayushi made Thanksgiving cards for her grandparents and helped make part of her Thanksgiving dinner.
Alina thanked her mom for being a great mom.
Jonathan thanked his parents for making a fabulous thanksgiving dinner.
Mikhaela thanked her mom for buying her wanted items and listening to her.
By the way,our club’s new slogan is: “Be the Change, The change is good!”
December 1st, 2008 at 9:23 pm
I babysat my five year-old brother so my parents could enjoy their date night and not have to hire a babysitter. My parents never go on dates anymore so it was a win win situation… I made my parents happy and they got to spend time together.
November 29th, 2008 at 10:13 pm
I went out of my way to make sure I called and celebrated a few people for their birthday’s this week - I knew how good it felt to me and I returned the favor!
November 29th, 2008 at 10:12 pm
I went shopping with Yvonne and bought dinner for the entire family!
November 29th, 2008 at 10:11 pm
I baby sat my grand son so our kids could clean up their house from a flood - Another win win what can I say?
November 29th, 2008 at 10:10 pm
I played Star Wars for hours with my godson - We both had a great time!
November 28th, 2008 at 11:13 pm
I called my best friend and told her how amazing she is, she was busy and had to go, but I didn’t let the critters come and she called back in an hour saying how much that call had meant to her.
November 27th, 2008 at 5:22 pm
Today my dad, little brother and I went to visit some homebound elders at a nursing home in the city who have no one to spend thanksgiving with. We brought them each a turkey dinner, and the organization that we were working with had some extra dinners so we took two more. We brought the two extras home with us and stopped at People’s Park in Berkeley and gave them to some homeless guys. The smiles on their faces were so big because they were so grateful.
November 27th, 2008 at 5:18 pm
Last night was me and my best friend’s birthday (how rare, right?) and we went out to dinner with this big boquet of balloons in tow. Turns out that there were two younger girls ages four and five also celebrating their birthday’s in the same restaurant, so at the end of the night my friend and I gave each of them a balloon from us. Loved sharing the birthday spirit.
November 27th, 2008 at 1:20 pm
sometimes ive been a bully but ive really changed in that
November 26th, 2008 at 1:39 pm
I said a quick prayer for the stranger inside, as the ambulance passed me on the road.
November 26th, 2008 at 1:37 pm
My Challenge Day family called me and sang me a Happy Birthday song. I love this community!!!
November 26th, 2008 at 1:35 pm
My Act of Change for my family this Thanksgiving is to make Hawaiian Food for them instead of the traditional turkey.
One of the hardest things to get for our Hawaiian meal is poi. I remembered an Oriental Food store that sometimes has it frozen, which is the next best thing, so after breakfast, I went to the store. I was grateful that it was still there and when I went it, I noticed that their van was unloading food items flown in from Hawaii. And you guessed it, he had 3 bags of FRESH POI, straight off the plane from Hawaii and now all 3 bags are sitting on my kitchen counter waiting to join the Kalua Pork, Raw fish, Chicken Luau, Mac salad, Chicken Long Rice, Lomi lomi salmon and sweet potatoes that wil be part of our Celebration of Gratitude. Wahooo!!! Ummm ummmm good!!!
November 26th, 2008 at 1:28 pm
On a recent trip to Orlando Florida (and being led by God,) I asked a young woman if she would allow me to hold her in my lap for a few minutes. As soon as she sat in my lap she just put her arms around my neck and laid her head on my shoulder and cried and cried. I just rocked her for a few more minutes and told her that in her young life she has to be strong for everyone (Dad in jail, Mom in Hospital, siblings in foster care) and she’s doing an excellent job of dealing with it all… but just for a few minutes, she can just be a little girl again because I’ve got her. She said that she hadn’t been rocked like that since her grandma died, and it really felt safe and loving and she hugged me really tight and said Thank You.
November 26th, 2008 at 1:19 pm
I had breakfast with a girlfriend today. We share the same birthdate and so for her birthday, I wrote her a “What I Love about you letter. She loved it and cried. We spent the rest of the morning listening and loving.
November 26th, 2008 at 10:16 am
I am sjowing people that its ok to be your self and you don’t have to be someone your not.
November 24th, 2008 at 9:41 pm
Last week, I delivered a package to a teacher that I am not close to. It was something she had ordered and it had been in the teachers’ room all week. When I delivered it to her, she broke down unexpectedly, saying she was having trouble at home. I offered her a hug, which she accepted. Later that day, she sent me a card and a little gift.
November 24th, 2008 at 9:38 pm
I have kept really busy at work, volunteering for the Be The Change group, chaperoning the prom and homecoming dances, various other things. Friday at work, my friend and co-worker gave me a thank you card and a cute little gift of paperclips shaped liked the number 1, thanking me for all I do for the students and the school.
November 24th, 2008 at 9:34 pm
I got my hair done tonight. My stylist is in her 40’s but has health issues. She has been feeling poorly for several days now. When her boyfriend called, I raised my head to the phone and told him he needed to take her to the doctor. Then I asked if she had walked to work. She lives a few blocks away from the salon. I was her last appointment, so insisted in driving her home. She did not argue. In all that, I forgot to pay her, so called and left a message for her at her station.
I do hope she gets to the doctor, but was glad I could help her in some small way.
November 24th, 2008 at 5:25 pm
I received a thank you note in the mail today. Never think your acts of kindness are not worthwhile!
As you know, Amy and I planned to pay the toll for the car behind us. This we did, and he stayed behind us for quite awhile. When he passed us, he waved and smiled. The end, right? Read the below.
“Ms. —–,
Imagine my surprise and pleasure when coming up to the toll booth, preparing to pay the $4 toll, and being told my toll was paid by the driver in front of me. Police officers deal with horrendous situations weekly and become hardened and cynical over time. I am no exception to this. I wanted to take the time to tell you that your one seemingly random act of kindness had a distinct mental and emotional impact on me. It is heartening to know that there are people out there like you who do things out of the kindness of their heart just to make someone’s life easier and happier. THANK YOU.
If you ever drive through Scotts Valley, please give me a call so I can take you to coffee. In the meanwhile, please accept this Starbucks card as a token of my appreciation for your thoughtful and caring gesture. The world needs more people like you.
Sincerely,
John W.”
Enclosed was his business card, showing he was lieutenant for the Scotts Valley Police, and a Starbucks gift card. Wow, huh? You should have seen how excited I was as I read the note to my husband and son!
Keep sharing the love. It works!
November 24th, 2008 at 4:57 pm
Amy and I lead a BE The Change group at our high school, Lower Lake HS in Lake County. The students came up with a logo to represent Peace, Love, and Equality. We have a teacher on staff that silk screens t-shirts. He took the design and now we have t-shirts for the group. Amy and I wore them to Next-Step and since they liked them so much, we are sending Rich and Yvonne one each.
November 24th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
I made the varsity football team (Fremont HS) dinner after work and took it down to them and served as well. Paid for it and all.
November 24th, 2008 at 12:55 pm
Recently my partner was diagnosed with a recurrence of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. The hospital where she’s being treated is always so supportive, to both of us. Wednesday I am taking cookies for all of the doctors, nurses, secretaries in the oncology department to let them know - they are angels on earth.
November 23rd, 2008 at 10:08 pm
I told two new friends about Challenge DAy when they came over for dinner last night…and then showed them the 15 minute Be the Change video! They were so touched. The male friend was crying and Andy did a great “Act of Change” by admitting that he was crying, first to create some safety and get those guys out of that “Be a Man!” box. xoxo Love you guys!
November 23rd, 2008 at 8:51 pm
@ the Pleasant Hill Park today my son found a cell phone on the floor. It belonged to a gentlemen that asked my son to play with his son. We did not know him. He had left and had completely forgotten about his cell phone. We waited & waited to see if he would come back. finally I picked up the phone & started calling till we talked the his wife and she said they were new to the area. I got her address and drove to deliver her husband’s cell phone <3
November 23rd, 2008 at 7:48 pm
It has been a long beautiful week. We finished leading Challenge Days in Lake Tahoe than came home to work on our book. Rich was so tired at one point his head started nodding as his eyes closed, falling asleep sitting up. I pulled him on my lap and rubbed his back and told him all the things I loved about him. I am so lucky to be his wife.
November 23rd, 2008 at 8:07 am
I paid the toll of the unsuspecting car behind me on the bridge and left a Be the Change Pay it Forward card which inspired the toll taker as well
November 22nd, 2008 at 6:23 pm
I just want to say thank you to Aunty Nola and Vinny for coming to Fairmont. It has changed my life and is slowly changing the school. I have not been as judgemental since Challenge Day. I am being nicer to people. The shocking thing is that the person I thought was the annoying jock is one of the coolest people I have ever met. THANKYOU GUYS SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
November 22nd, 2008 at 11:29 am
I picked up a bag of spilled groceries for a woman holding a baby
November 21st, 2008 at 11:53 pm
challenge day was very inspiring and memorable.I will never forget what you guys did that helped me soo much.I saw at school today that kids were actually changing a little bit. Thank you!!
<3
November 21st, 2008 at 9:24 pm
I bought a gift card for $5 and had the cashier give it to the person behind me anonymously along with a pay it forward card.
November 21st, 2008 at 6:28 pm
After going though challenge day I learned a lot more about people then they were showing. For once I was happy to see that people were finally letting everything go and feeling better. I think it’s better to be yourself because people know more of who you are and they respect you more. I thank challenge day for letting me see the other side of people.
November 21st, 2008 at 1:18 pm
My godson has to have a heart transplant and he is only 5months old. And since my best friend has been at the hospital every single moment,and has been eating SO much fastfood, Im going to go and spend a few hours at the hospital with my godson so she can go to her familys house for Thanksgiving for some real food!
November 20th, 2008 at 7:13 pm
I e-mailed friends asking them to donate blood @ the blood drive @ NAIA GELATERIA in WALNUT CREEK this coming Sat the 22nd.
So what about you ?!
ONE PINCH of BLOOD = 1 PINCH of GELATO. I also shared this idea with COCO’S SWRILL in Pleasant hill and turns out the honor loved the idea (he also donates blood every 3months and saves 3 lives every time he donates)
November 20th, 2008 at 5:48 pm
I said thank you to, (and hugged!) my boss today.
November 20th, 2008 at 10:44 am
i was at the mall at foot locker and this lady with a baby were walking through and they dropped the baies bottle the baby started crying a little bit and she couldnt find the bottle and i picked it up and gave the bottle to them and they said thank you
November 20th, 2008 at 10:42 am
I found a pair of car keys out side El Zarape when I went to eat there. I took them into a
worker at the restruant and they said, ” Thank you, a guy said he lost some yesterday.” When I got
done eating I asked the worker if they found the owner and he said, “Yes.”
November 20th, 2008 at 10:39 am
My friends were getting in a fight and I helped them come to a resolution!
November 20th, 2008 at 10:36 am
my dad gave me 20 dallers for keeping my room clean and at the end of the day i earned money for
baby sitting so i gave the money back to my dad
November 20th, 2008 at 10:33 am
I am going to start stoping the fights that go on at school and out in public.
November 20th, 2008 at 10:25 am
My name is Arie and I cleaned my teacher’s desk for him and left a Pay it Forward card for him!
November 19th, 2008 at 9:16 pm
I found a organizer with someone’s credit cards and cash - I turned it in to the hotel office in Tahoe - I sure I made someones’s day
November 19th, 2008 at 8:44 pm
I bought my son a gingerbread house kit and kept him company while he put it together! It was a warm-up for when his aunt comes over to show him how to make a “real” one!
November 19th, 2008 at 5:03 pm
Challenge Day was probably one of the best, if not the best, day of my life. I learned so much about all of my friends and even people I don’t know. Friendships were repaired and strengthened. I’m so glad that Challenge Day came to my school. I never thought it would actually work, but now everyone wears their shirts, we have a club (which I am proud to be a part of), and people are giving hugs left and right. Thank you so much Challenge day team. Hugs!
November 19th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
i made an effort to help stop people who bully
November 19th, 2008 at 2:30 pm
Challenge Day was so Amazing. I loved it. It was just so amazing to see how many of my friends go through rough times to. My mom died when i was 9 i didnt know any of my friends mom have died but i found out so know i can be a help. i love and care for everyone now. I say hi to people all the time and most of all i come out of my COMFORT ZONE how awesome is that.
November 19th, 2008 at 12:35 pm
I usually like to get off the phone and end my conversations with my father as quickly as possible to deny him of his nagging or save myself of the chance the conversation might turn ackward. When I started to actually listen, his nagging turned into what I heard as a father conserned for his son’s well being and an attempt to being included into my life. So I let him in, we started talking, it was a long time since we talked for over 20 minutes! And it felt great to let him give me his gift of carring.
November 19th, 2008 at 12:19 pm
Yesterday at work the District Mangaer was at our store and the tension with my co-workers was really high since our Store Mangaer just got fired and everyone was feeling like they were next… There’s this one sale’s associate who feels like she is in direct competition against me in sales that said she was having a hard time catching her breath. I talked and breathed with her until her panic attack passed. I remeber how embarrassed I had been from panic attacks, so I shared some of my experiences with her of my past panic attacks. She thanked me, and we continued working… She was much nicer to me for the rest of that day then she ever had been before.
November 19th, 2008 at 12:46 am
Today while getting gas a man asked me for money. I gave him a 20 and he looked at me in disbelief. Then he said ” you are going to be blessed”. For the rest of the day I thought to myself all the ways I already am. I figure we reminded eachother….
November 18th, 2008 at 10:59 pm
I went out of my way to spend special time with my god kids! It was a great adventure!
November 18th, 2008 at 5:17 pm
challenge day i can say made a positive infulence in my life. I learned so much.
thank you
November 18th, 2008 at 12:40 pm
My boss got fired yesterday. He has a girlfreind, who he is madly in love with and is expecting his first child with her in less than a month. I called him on my lunch break. Before I had time to speak, he was already appologizing to me about how sorry he was thta he couldn’t be there to finish my training, to help and watch me become a great sucess at work and that he had faith that I still will even with out him, but he was still so sorry that he couldn’t be there for me now. I remember how I felt when I got fired, and told him something like “I’ve never told you this before but I was meant to met you and you’ve done far more than just train me at this new job, but you have inspired me by being the man that you are. Your courage to love your girlfreind as much as you do, and by just being around and allowing me to witness your love for her has inspired me in ways that I cannot describe. You are a huge man, with a huge heart. You are still that man even if you are no longer my boss, you are not any less of a man just because you got fired.” He cried on the other side of the phone and said “Thank you so much, that means so much to me.”
November 18th, 2008 at 9:31 am
I collected money for Hoops for Heart, I earned $55
November 18th, 2008 at 9:30 am
i saw someone in the hall being bullied so i haelped them she was very happy and she gave me a hug
and walked way
November 18th, 2008 at 9:29 am
BE THE CHANGE”:) Today we played a game called “Guess Who?” You put a blank peice paper on each
person’s back then you write a nice thing on each of their backs. LMS BE THE CHANGE ROCKS!!!!
November 18th, 2008 at 9:28 am
i helped clean an elderly neighbors yard
November 18th, 2008 at 9:28 am
BE THE CHANGE”:) Today we played a game called “Guess Who?” YUo put a balnk peice paper on each
person’s back then you write a nice thing on each of their backs. LMS BE THE CHANGE ROCKS!!!!
November 18th, 2008 at 9:25 am
Today my students each had a paper taped to their back. They went around the room and wrote a positive comment on everyone’s paper! They came up with some great messages. My favorite was “You have a beautiful soul!” Good job LMS 5th grade!
November 18th, 2008 at 9:25 am
one time i was walking down the hallway and i saw someone being bulled. i went over there and asked
what was going on and they said that they were going to beat she or he up. i asked what she did and
they said that she had done nothing ,and i said why
November 18th, 2008 at 9:24 am
i cut 18 inches off of my hair and sent it to locks of love AND MADE THEM WIGS.
November 18th, 2008 at 9:23 am
I earned “prizes” for being the change:->
November 18th, 2008 at 9:23 am
Please stop bullying at school! If I see someone bullying, I’m going to tell them to stop!
November 18th, 2008 at 9:21 am
My friends fight a lot at lunch and I’m going to start telling them to stop fighting and think of nice things to say.
November 18th, 2008 at 9:20 am
I wrote nice stuff on other peeps back in the classroom and they wrote nice stuff back. :):):):):):):):):)::):):):)
November 18th, 2008 at 9:19 am
I have wrote complements about people today!!!!!!!!!!
November 17th, 2008 at 11:20 pm
I don’t know if my act of change is really relevant to another person but it is to me. My mother’s brother is in town. For a long time til probably this moment i feel he could really careless for me. I also feel that we have no connection whatsoever except in blood. I can remember a time when i admired him and was glad to have an uncle. Then there was a fallout and it seems since then that there is no uncle in him for me. Well i still feel that BUT, i could hear my aunty Nola in my heart. so, he is here in hawaii visiting and I went to go see him. Now here on this island 30-40 miles is far. Anyway i went out to the other side of the island to say hi. Exactly what i thought would happen, he said hi, i said hi, he asked how i was and vice versa then we said bye. All of 3 mins. Now here is the change….. before i would never go. I would think why go there? he doesn’t care? He talks to the other cousins more… yada yada just downing myself. Not this time no downing on Elizabeth. I went and for 3 mins it was ok. Nothing extravagant just ok. I am good with ok. I was the change for me. Something that is sometimes harder than making a change in someone elses life. I hope the minutes get longer next time.
November 17th, 2008 at 8:24 pm
We started a Be the Change Club at my son’s school today!
November 17th, 2008 at 8:24 pm
I was feeling really tired and a little down today, so I bought myself some flowers! When I got home, I realized that my bright yellow, happy daisies had sparkles on them - BONUS!
November 17th, 2008 at 6:16 pm
I saw a word war on the doors at work today, one person’s door said “Fat” under the name. The other said “Stupid”. When nobody was around I crossed them both out and re-wrote them to say,”Perfect” and “Brilliant”.
November 17th, 2008 at 4:01 pm
I just gor home from the Be the Change workshop and I gave my parents the card I wrote for them at the workshop and I bouhgt my mother flowers. I have never been close with my parents or told them how much I appreciate them and love them and I finally DID IT!!!!!! And I FEEL FABULOUS ABOUT IT!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you Yvonne, Rich and everyone at the workshop in Concord.
November 17th, 2008 at 11:41 am
Rich, you deserve your birthday wish. 5000 Acts of Change blogged on this page, comming right up! ARE YOU READY?!! GET READY!!! Because here they come!!!
November 16th, 2008 at 10:28 pm
I was standing in line to get dinner, and struck up a conversation with the woman in line behind me. I offered to buy her dinner. She was completely surprised, flabbergasted–and thankful. She didn’t quite know what to say. I paid and we stood chatting, waiting for our food. Then she said, “You know, it’s kind of amazing that I would be standing in line behind you tonight. You see, I’m gay and my partner and I got married a few months ago. We’ve been pretty heartbroken and sort of ‘down on’ humanity since Proposition 8 was passed. I don’t understand why there would be so much hatred in the world; that people would hate me just for being gay.” We talked for awhile longer. I felt convinced that it was no accident (there are no accidents!) that I would be standing in line next to someone who needed that little reminder that there are people in the world who are about love, love, love.
November 16th, 2008 at 9:07 pm
Challenge Day is awesome, ^__^!
These guys come to my high school just about every year, and it was awesome. I wish I was still in high school. HPHS, Class of ‘08
Keep it real people, ^__^! Be down with the real you and always show respect, =)!!
November 16th, 2008 at 7:24 pm
When my two best friends and I went out to dinner last night, we wrote a note to our waiter saying how he was so accomodating,and just appreciated what he does on a daily basis. Right before we left, we tucked the note in with our tip.
November 14th, 2008 at 11:16 pm
hey guys ! to whoever reads this, I am a senior in a school in Long Island, NY. we have a class called “Lead” and it is basically a class full of leaders and people who are willing to change something in society for the better. we tackle important issues through doing skits, and today we were brainstorming, and we LOVED the idea of Challenge Day. We are thinking of putting it in our own perspective to change it up a bit, but we really think it is going to be ground breaking. I just am typing away because I think it’s amazing you guys are stepping up in the world. We need people like you<3
November 14th, 2008 at 2:18 pm
So many wonderful changes here is a few….. I live in a home with my sister and parents. We are all adults and we have assigned chore days. Normally i get upset when i have to pick up the slack. Well, i did dishes without being asked on a day that was not mine…. I have this neighbor who i really did not like, or so i thought. Well, long story short we were both waiting downstairs at the apartment building for our rides, she asked me how my daughter was. I said fine. Like i said i at the time did not like her. Anyhow, i for some reason smiled at her and decided to continue the conversation. 10 mins. later we were laughing. In 10 Mins I made a person i thought was a “Meanie” a friend. I say hi to her everytime we run into each other.
November 14th, 2008 at 8:47 am
I intentionally stopped looked my wife in the eyes and told her how much I love her and how incrediably beautiful I think she is.
November 14th, 2008 at 8:46 am
I played tag with my GodSon even though I really didn’t have time
November 14th, 2008 at 8:45 am
I took my daughter to dinner and just listened and loved
November 14th, 2008 at 8:44 am
I collected toilet paper and paper towel rolls for a co-workers daughter who was building log cabins at school
November 14th, 2008 at 8:43 am
I made an extra effort to stop and really listen to co-workers
November 14th, 2008 at 8:42 am
I smiled and acknowledged everyone I passed for a full day - It felt great!
November 14th, 2008 at 8:41 am
Today I picked up glass that was dangerously close to a nother persons tire
November 13th, 2008 at 11:09 pm
I have had the blessing of being a part of the Challenge Day Community for almost 10 years now. I was inspired by my first Challenge Day, and then I went to my first Next Step Training and I realized that my passion in life was to improve the world for young people. The last ten years have been bumpy but the passion I found in Challenge Day stays with me. I recently had a complete stranger, a 16 year old girl, find me on Facebook when I asked her if I knew her she said, “No, but I saw you in the Challenge Day group so I knew you gad to be great!” I had forgotten the influence and affect that Challenge Day can have on your life. Challenge Day truly was the first Community that I ever found that I fit into perfectly.
R&Y, thank you for your passion, love, dedication, and support over the years.
To My Challenge Day Community…thank you for showing a 14 year old girl at the time what her passion in life would be. I have been working with kids ever since, and am currently getting ready to get my Masters in Education.
Much love to all~Iz~
November 13th, 2008 at 10:53 pm
Today my sister Yvonne(bonnie) sent me a email thanking me for making sure that our Mother finished some very inportant papers that hade to get done. Thank you Bonnie that made me feel very supported. This weekend my husband James and I are taking our oldest granddaughter so to give her mother a break. Thank you again Yvonne and we love and miss you bunches!!!!Kim and James..Hi Rich we love you too!!!!!!!!!!
November 13th, 2008 at 8:46 pm
I brought my freind over to use my washer and dryer.
November 13th, 2008 at 7:25 pm
You know when it is around 5:30 pm and you loading your groceries in your car and that same homeless person comes to ask you for $$$ ? We are always in choice. Being busy and getting on with our lives or stopping taking the time to do an act of kindness. That’s just what I did today. I took him to the Burger king just in front of the Safeway I was shopping & treated him (whatever he wanted). He had that kid @ a Candie store look… He might be 50, 55. I left him and he said : ” God bless you ” To what I answered: ” He just did “.
November 13th, 2008 at 1:03 pm
Challenge day was a great experienced. I was able to tell my peers and my teachers about how hard my life is. I was able to let everything out because i hold in everything. I absolutely loved challenge day. It was an awesome experience and it challenged me to make changes around my school. Ken and Jay Jay were awesome.
November 13th, 2008 at 11:22 am
I learned so much from Katie and Randy they made me think long and hard about some of the things i have done and the things i want to do. I think every teenager should experince this program. I never new what students my age have gone through and have to go through every day. I will take this with me the rest of my life and i thank god that i am healty and have time to change the person i have been and be the young lady i want to be. Thank you so much katie and randy and all of the team that take there time and go school to school and do this.
Love, Peace, & Happiness to everyone all around the world.
-Ashley-
Mott High School
waterford, Michigan
November 13th, 2008 at 12:43 am
I took my first ever “mental health day” off from work. I slept, read the Bible, read a book, and made some over due doctor appointments. Now I can go back to serving th