As a 6 hour and 30 minute experiential workshop designed for 100 students, Challenge Day’s goal is to build connection and empathy and to fulfill the vision that every child lives in a world where he or she feels safe, loved and celebrated. Evidence-based research has shown that Challenge Day helps remove impediments to student success by developing leadership in high school students through its day-long programs, including intellectual flexibility, emotional control, self-confidence and social competence. After our programs, the support network of teachers and administrators can expect the youth participants to: • Increase their skills in noticing oppression and isolation • Practice safe and effective intervention tools in the midst of conflict • Perform acts of change in their schools and communities
At a Challenge Day, leaders invite youth to make at least one conscious, positive contribution (also known as an act of change) each day in their communities and schools. The acts of change most often exhibited by students after a Challenge Day are: • Helped peers and family • Connected and reached out to peers • Gave hugs and expressed love • Resolved conflict • Took care of self The program has proven results which demonstrate that schools participating in the programs see a reduction in violence, bullying and substance abuse, and an increase in school safety and emotional connections among peers. The number of incidents of violence also decreases for schools that participate in Challenge Days and the follow-up program. Challenge Day was designed as a comprehensive and multi-dimensional program that increases social support and networks and centers on community building.
