In 2014, the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge took hold of social media, in order to raise awareness and funds for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). This trend raised over $220 million world wide, with $100 million aiding the ALS Association. The funds helped support research, patient services, and increase public awareness.

Today, the Ice Bucket Challenge has made a comeback, to the surprise of some Sentinels. “I saw one or two videos prior of random people posting it, and then I searched up what the meaning was”, explains Victoria Calderon, one of the first students at Minot North to do the challenge on April 17th.

Calderon soon found out that the new challenge was not for ALS, but mental health. The shock of pouring ice over the head symbolizes how sudden and overwhelming mental health struggles can feel. Mylee Ackerman, sophomore, admits that she wishes she would have done the challenge, due to the admirable cause.

Started by students at the University of Southern Carolina, the USC Speak Your Mind Challenge aims to raise awareness and funds for mental health and suicide prevention. The students are part of the Mental Illness Needs Discussion (MIND) Club.