Greenies Take 22 Push-Up Challenge
Initiative to recognize military one of many planned for this school year
Maybe their form was not always perfect. The intent more than made up for it.
Shortly after the morning Angelus bell rang Monday, about 30 boys got down on their hands and the balls of their feet in front of Wetmore Hall. Once again this year, Christ School is doing the 22 Push-Up Challenge to raise awareness for veterans suicide prevention as well as honor those who have served, or are currently active in the military.
The Challenge is what its name implies – participants do 22 push-ups for 22 days. Why that number? In 2013, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs estimated that 22 veterans commit suicide each day.
Celebrities such as Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, John Krasinski, Chris Pratt, Chris Evans, and Scott Eastwood have brought global attention to the Challenge through social media. This year's Challenge at Christ School was organized by the new Veterans Service Club, which is headed up by James Coleman '20.
"It's really amazing to see the support, to see how many guys showed up," James said. "It's great to bring awareness to this issue. My grandpa is a veteran, and I've got uncles and cousins who have been in the military. I think they'd be proud of what we're doing."
The Veterans Service Club has other initiatives planned for the rest of the school year. The club's faculty advisor is Olga Mahoney.
"It's exciting to see that the commitment is there," Mahoney said. "The men and women in our military make so many sacrifices."
