Volunteer FAQ
Everything you need to know about volunteering at Challenge Day
I'm a Parent. Is it OK for me to attend a Challenge Day?
Absolutely! We encourage parents to attend Challenge Day. You'll gain valuable insight into your teen's experience and learn tools to continue meaningful conversations at home. Many parents describe attending Challenge Day as one of the most powerful parenting experiences they've ever had.
What does it mean to volunteer at a Challenge Day?
Adult volunteers serve as "Adult Facilitators" during Challenge Day. You'll participate alongside the students in all activities, sharing your own stories and experiences while supporting the young people in their journey of connection and growth.
This is not a traditional volunteer role where you observe from the sidelines. You'll be an active participant in creating a safe, supportive environment where authentic connection can happen.
Do Adult Facilitators need to be trained beforehand?
No special training is required! Our experienced Challenge Day Leaders will guide you through everything. Here's what you need to know:
- •Arrive by 7:30 AM for a brief orientation
- •Program runs from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- •Stay until 2:30 PM for a short debrief
- •Come with an open heart and willingness to participate
What will I do?
You'll participate in the same activities as the students - sharing in small groups, participating in interactive exercises, and being part of the Challenge Day experience. Your role is to model authenticity, vulnerability, and connection while supporting the young people around you.
Can I just observe?
No, observers are not permitted. Challenge Day is designed as a participatory experience for everyone in the room. Full participation from adults is essential for creating the safe, connected environment that makes Challenge Day so powerful for students.
Can I come for just an hour? Can I leave at lunch?
Challenge Day requires a full-day commitment from all participants. The program is carefully designed as a complete experience, and leaving early disrupts the process for everyone. Please plan to stay for the entire program from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM.
Do I need to bring anything?
Please bring:
- ✓Yourself and a caring heart
- ✓A bag lunch (we don't provide lunch)
- ✓Water bottle
Please leave at home:
- ✗Cell phones and pagers (they'll be collected at the door)
- ✗Cameras or recording devices
What Volunteers Say
Hear from adults who have experienced Challenge Day
"Challenge Day changed my perspective on teenagers completely. I walked in thinking I was there to help them, but I left realizing they had taught me so much about courage, authenticity, and connection."
Sarah Mitchell
Parent Volunteer
"As an educator, I've attended many professional development sessions, but nothing prepared me for the profound impact of Challenge Day. It's not just about the students - it transforms the adults too."
David Chen
School Counselor
"I volunteer at Challenge Day because I believe in the power of connection. Every time I participate, I'm reminded of our shared humanity and the incredible resilience of young people."
Maria Rodriguez
Community Volunteer
Program Details
Learn more about what Challenge Day is and how it works
What is Challenge Day?
Challenge Day is a powerful, evidence-based program that builds connection, empathy, and inclusion in school communities. For over 25 years, we've been creating safer, more connected school environments where every student feels seen, heard, and valued.
Our one-day intensive experience brings together students, educators, and community members to break down barriers, challenge assumptions, and create lasting positive change in school culture.
What exactly happens during the program?
Challenge Day is a carefully crafted 6-hour experience designed to create authentic connection and positive culture change. Here's what you can expect:
Opening & Community Building
Participants engage in activities designed to break down social barriers and create psychological safety.
Sharing & Connection
Small group discussions where participants share their stories and experiences in a supportive environment.
Challenge Activities
Interactive exercises that challenge assumptions and encourage empathy and understanding.
Action Planning
Participants commit to specific actions they will take to create positive change in their school and community.
How do we sustain the experience?
Challenge Day is just the beginning. We provide schools with comprehensive follow-up resources, including:
- •Be the Change Team formation and training
- •Monthly check-ins and support calls
- •Additional programming and workshops
- •Access to our online resource library