Challenge Day, an innovative program aimed at fostering empathy and reducing bullying in schools, was founded in 1987 by Yvonne and Rich St. John-Dutra. Born from their personal experiences with bullying in the California public school system, the program quickly gained recognition for its transformative impact on students and school communities.
Over the years, Challenge Day has achieved significant milestones, including features on popular television shows like Oprah and MTV's "If You Really Knew Me." The program's success led to its expansion beyond schools, with corporate programs introduced at companies like Coca-Cola in 2007. Challenge Day has continually adapted to meet changing needs, even pivoting to virtual programs during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. As it celebrated its 35th anniversary in 2022, Challenge Day continues to break down barriers, curb prejudice, and foster connection among participants, staying true to its mission of creating positive change one person at a time.
Challenge Day started in the United States of America and has spread worldwide including Canada, Belgium, Germany, The Netherlands, some countries in Africa, India and now here in Aotearoa!
Elenor Aleksich, a primary school trained teacher who graduated in 2008, was in her first year of teaching when she came across Challenge Day on the internet. She was looking for solutions for bullying in the school, where she was working, then later on at other schools. Elenor decided it was time to do something different to help. She contacted the USA co founders Rich Dutra-St John and Yvonne Dutra-St John about training as a Leader, and bringing the program to New Zealand.
In 2023 the program piloted at Broadgreen Intermediate in Nelson, Whakatū. It all started with 200 students over 2 days and more than 100 adults from the community over 3 days which included a community workshop.
Founders of Challenge Day
Rich Dutra-St John and Yvonne Dutra-St John: Rich was a former high school teacher and championship wrestling coach, Rich has worked with teens and families since 1978. Rich is a graduate of St. Mary’s College and JFK University with a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology.
Yvonne has been working with teens and adults in schools and communities since 1980. Yvonne has been instrumental in designing and implementing over 20 different nationally recognised prevention, intervention and Leadership programs for teenagers and adults.
Rich and Yvonne's background, vast experience and accolades can be found here: About Us (challengeday.org)