Local Spotlight: Rachel’s Challenge
One kind word. One small favor. One simple smile. Each is a spark that can set off a chain reaction of good. When done at the right moment, they’re enough to change a person’s life.
Sometimes, they can even change the world.
This is the philosophy behind Rachel’s Challenge. Born from tragedy, the goal of this non-profit is to change the current state of America by, “Awakening individual transformation and promoting safe, more connected schools”.
At McDonald Volkswagen, we believe in a community where everyone can grow to their fullest potential. That’s why we’re devoting this month’s spotlight to spreading the word about this transformative cause.
Who is Rachel?
On April 20th, 1999 Rachel Joy Scott stepped off the school bus and into the halls of Columbine High School. A typical, loving 17-year old, it would be one of her last moments on Earth.
Those who know the horrific details of what happened that day might think this is where Rachel’s story ends. But Rachel, like the 12 other students who lost their lives that day, continue to inspire children throughout the world to be a kinder, more loving version of themselves.
You see, among being a normal teenaged girl, Rachel was also a writer. In her diary, she would recount the things she witnessed each day with poetic detail. Some things she saw upset her: bullying, people with needs being overlooked. It brought tears to her eyes.
So, Rachel decided instead of just going with the flow, she’d do something about it. Any time she saw someone being picked on she’d speak up. Any time a student with special needs needed a hand, she’d lend hers. If a new kid didn’t have a place to sit at lunch, she’d make room at her table.
One evening, Rachel wrote it in her diary, “Compassion is the greatest form of love humans have to offer” and she generously spread compassion throughout her brief but impactful life.
What is Rachel’s Challenge?
In the weeks and months following Rachel’s death, people who felt transformed by her kindness began to reach out to her family. They described with full hearts Rachel’s sweet nature. They’d recount her kind words and detail each thoughtful act. In doing so, they also revealed how much she had changed their lives for the better.
Not only did it bring much needed comfort to the Scott family, it really made them think: if one person’s small deeds can impact so many lives, what would happen if everyone acted more like Rachel?
In the following years, Rachel’s Challenge was formed.
The vision of this organization isn’t just to see schools free from harassment, bullying, and violence but to be a place where “students are awakened to learn”.
Awaken the Learner
Working hand-in-hand with school administrators and faculty, Awaken the Learner adopts Rachel’s belief that kindness causes a chain-reaction and puts it into a working framework.
This evidence-based process has already reached over 1.5 million students and faculty. Its effects are shown to greatly reduce instances of bullying, suicide, and other forms of violence while improving a school’s overall culture.
Learn More About Rachel’s Challenge
To learn more about the organization’s school-based programs, volunteer opportunities, and more, you’re welcome to visit them online.
To stay up to date on local events and fundraising opportunities, make sure to follow Rachel’s Challenge on social media today!
