Mrs. Ulmer's $20 Challenge: A Lesson in Kindness

The Description

In 2014, my sister died in a car accident, leaving behind some money in her wallet. Because she was so focused on helping those in need during her lifetime, I knew this money had to go towards helping others.

Therefore, after saving and contributing some money of my own, I decided to use the money to teach my students a lesson in giving and kindness. I gave each student $20 and challenged them to use it to do an act of kindness. My students took this challenge seriously and thoughtfully used their $20 to bring smiles to many faces. 

After completing my $20 Challenge with one class in the fall of 2018, I received enough donations to continue my kindness challenge every semester since. This spring, we reached our 300th act of kindness in my sister's honor.

Unfortunately, after this semester, I am out of funds, and I would love for this challenge to continue and for me to be able to teach this important lesson to more students in future years to come.

If you like to help spread kindness and help others, please consider donating to our $20 Challenge. Your money will go directly toward making the world a better place, $20 at a time. :-)

 

NOTE: Donors will receive an email with the video link when their funds are used (I'd like to show you what acts of kindness were done with your donation!). If you wish to remain anonymous when being thanked in the video, please let me know; otherwise, your name will appear at the end of the video. 

 

For more information, please view our 6ABC Action News segment or Philadelphia Inquirer article.

To view previous $20 Challenge's, please visit this playlist. 

 

 

Back Up Plan

If I do not reach my goal, I will use my money to fund future challenges until I can no longer afford it.

No Updates

Comments (13)

Pam Ward October 31, 2024

Both of our girls did this in your 9th grade class, and they absolutely loved it! It's such a thoughtful and meaningful experience, hopefully you can continue this for years to come!

Diane Oloughlin October 28, 2024

This is an awesome undertaking. Best of luck this year!

Diane Manser October 28, 2024

I love you, Kristina!! Thank you for all you do for all of us to inspire us!!! I love you!
Diane

Anthony Adamucci October 25, 2024

I was lucky enough to be a recipient of this as one of the students used their $20 to do something nice for me. It made my day when I was having a rough week. It’s an honor to give back. Keep doing your amazing work Kristina!

Barb Lelli October 22, 2024

This is an amazing project and message to inspire high school students!

Shawn and Dawn Poole October 19, 2024

Keep up the good work!

Donna Warriner (Adrey) October 19, 2024

I grew up with your mom and Aunt Joanne. I remember when you started your act of kindness challenge and absolutely loved the outcome and lesson it taught your kids along with the and message it sent. I’m so proud of what you’re doing and am more than happy to support it. ❤️

David Baker October 18, 2024

Kate was the best person I've ever known.

Kay McBride October 18, 2024

This is in honor of Helen

Camille Perretti-Fiato October 18, 2024

Katie’s legacy lives on ❤️

Carol Clift October 18, 2024

God bless you and your family!!

Elizabeth Daleandro October 18, 2024

Such a beautiful and powerful lesson.

Renie October 18, 2024

I so proud of my niece Kristina for continuing this beautiful tribute. I will always miss and love Kate.

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About the Creator

I am an English teacher in the suburbs of Philadelphia and have been teaching for 20 years. I feel that teaching is my calling and that I am privileged to play a role in developing my students into adults.

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Wayne Arminavage II

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Pamela Ward

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Diane Oloughlin

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