It was Challenge Day at Toms River High School North! Challenge Day is an organization that has been around for 35 years. The mission is to connect the youth with programs that celebrate diversity, inclusion and self-awareness.

News 12 New Jersey’s Syma Chowdhry was invited to volunteer. She graduated from Toms River High School North.

About 100 students were chosen to participate in Challenge Day, along with around two dozen adult volunteers. The all-day workshop was filled with open and honest conversations, leading to the conclusion that everyone has their own struggles and kindness can go a long way.

According to Challenge Day organizers, there are beneficial outcomes from social and emotional skill-building. This includes positive attitudes about self, school, and civic engagement. Improvements are seen in social behaviors, conduct problems and academic performance.

The initiative was introduced by the School Resource Officer Victor Tamaro. The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office supported the program.

Officer Tamaro said the Challenge Day program is set to return at the school in 2024.