The Keith Valley Challenge is a heartwarming testament to the power of community and compassion among 8th graders at Keith Valley Middle School. This annual event began as a tribute to Billy Whitehead, an 8th-grade student who passed away from a rare congenital heart defect. Initially a hockey marathon to raise funds for St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, it has since evolved into a multifaceted fundraising initiative that now supports the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Throughout the Challenge, students engage in various activities such as floor hockey, kickball, volleyball, and tennis baseball, all while raising money for their chosen charity. This year, the students raised an impressive $12,000 for Make-A-Wish, contributing to a remarkable total of over $1.5 million raised since the challenge's inception.
More than just a fundraiser, the Keith Valley Challenge provides students with invaluable lessons in empathy and teamwork. The students hear from wish recipients and their families, deepening their understanding of the impact of their efforts. As the challenge is in its 49th year, it continues to honor Billy Whitehead’s memory while instilling a legacy of giving in each new generation. The Keith Valley Challenge exemplifies how young people can come together to make a significant difference in the lives of others.