The Bullying Pull-up Challenge isn't a charity or an educational program. By its design, it's a movement that combines fitness and social media to spread awareness about bullying, but doing pull-ups doesn't prevent bullying. It's a first step and a call to action. As the movement grows and evolves we will look at ways that the challenge can directly affect positive change with youth and adults alike to prevent bullying. Until then, here are 3 ways to prevent bullying or help children who are experiencing bullying that need help.
1. Seek Educational Resources
A quick internet search will usually garner some information and programs put on by organizations or governmental bodies within your country or local region. In Canada, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) offers some programs and resources listed on the RCMP Website.
In the United States, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services hosts a wealth of information, programs, and resources through their website, stopbullying.gov. Some states also have their own state funded programs.
Other countries such as the UK have organizations like the National Children's Bureau that organizes the Anti-Bullying Alliance or Bullying UK that's put on by the Family Lives organization.
There are other resources too. Just like getting certified in first-aid or CPR, there are educational programs for parents, teachers, and anyone who's interested in learning more. Some of these programs offer insight that help identify bullying behaviours and teach skills in how to intervene safely.
Of course, these are just a few examples.
2. Donate to a Local Bullying Prevention Program
Not for profit organizations that wholly or in-part support bullying prevention programs often operate through donations and subsidies. Sometimes they'll host events to help raise awareness and money for their cause. It's always a good idea to check an organization's charity status to see how you can contribute.
Although, contributing to an organization doesn't necessarily mean donating money, contributions can also include volunteering or joining awareness campaigns.
3. Get Involved with your Community
The best way to prevent bullying is to be involved in your community. We don't doubt that doing pull-ups in your home gym and posting videos to social media won't get far. Seek out a local club such as Bikers Against Bullying or volunteer with a local organization that prevents bullying.
So, what else can you do to help prevent bullying? First get educated, then support bullying prevention organizations, and finally get involved in your community. Now, it's time to crank out some more pull-ups for bullying!
Photo Credit: Martine Jacobsen, Unsplash.com