Whatever It Takes

WitKids Clean The Beaches Event!

2010-03-31T08:33:00.000-07:00

Thank you to the 300+ volunteers that came to Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach and Oceanside on Saturday, March 27. WitKids and WitFans picked up a total of 406.25 pounds of trash!!

As is always the case at a WitKids event, the kids are the leaders from start to finish. On Saturday the kids lead with enthusiasm and respect! The kids also picked up the most trash. The boys in this picture collected over 50 pounds of trash! They were unstoppable!

I think we also met our youngest WitKids to date. Our friends in these pics prove that no matter your size you can still make a big difference!

Also, I invite you to check out highlights from the event on our latest video. Watch it here.

Thank you again for spending your Saturday making the world a better and cleaner place!

Until next time...

Keep doing Whatever It Takes!

Sarah

Talented WitKids

2010-03-12T14:17:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I was invited to stop by and watch the 1st rehearsal for an upcoming WitKids Talent Show. What a treat! I took my video camera and captured a few moments. I even got the chance to interview Mikayla- the M.C. of the show.

Watch the video here!

These WitKids are putting on a Talent Show to raise money for a water well at The Daraja Academy. I love that they are using their talents to raise awareness for a cause they feel passionate about. They truly are doing Whatever It Takes to make the world a better place!

Thank you for a wonderful afternoon.

Go Westwood D-29 WitKids!

Miss H

Website & WitKids

2010-03-12T14:05:00.000-08:00

The countdown has begun for the launch of our updated WitKids website!

When: April 1, 2010

Where: Worldwide Web- www.witkids.org

Why: WitFans asked for a place to learn more about us and interact with others doing Whatever It Takes!

Look forward to seeing you at www.witkids.org on April 1!

WitKids Urban Race- May 1st!

2010-03-04T22:27:00.000-08:00

Looking for a fun event to do with your friends, family, classmates, siblings....?

Do you like scavenger hunts...solving puzzles...completing obstacle courses?

YES!

Sign-up for the WitKids Urban Race!

Who: You and your team!

What: Urban race- using a map you and your team make your way through the park solving puzzles and completing challenges

When: May 1, 2010 start time- 9:00 a.m.

Where: Balboa Park

Why: Because it's gonna be FUN! (and there are prizes!)

Visit active.com and sign-up today! Click here.

See you at the race!

The WitKids Team

WitKid Rosie Tours WitKids-Dinner Garden Event on Feb. 27

2010-02-28T20:38:00.000-08:00

Rain couldn't keep the amazing WitKids volunteers from coming out to the WitKids Dinner Garden Event!

Check out WitKid Rosie as she takes you on a tour of this great event! Watch the video here.

Volunteer San Diego Blogs About WitKids!

2010-02-16T10:08:00.000-08:00

Extra..Extra...Read All About It! Volunteer San Diego blogs about WitKids! Read it on their website here or check it out below!

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2010

Project Highlight: WitKids' Dinner Garden

WitKids, one of our fantastic member organizations, educates, inspires, and empowers kids to make a difference in their school, community, and the world through volunteer work and community service, Whatever It Takes!

WitKids has partnered with the The Dinner Garden, a national organization that fights hunger, for a project in Amici Park in Little Italy. On Saturday, January 30, volunteers spent the day bagging seeds, making pots out of newspaper, and distributing seed packets to families in need. Sixty-four families participated in this spectacular volunteer event.

Several WitKids volunteers shared their experiences:

"My day started off with getting one of the WitKids t-shirts, and thinking that I can do whatever it takes just by packaging seeds. I soon start my day at a table packaging many different seeds, making cards, and planting seeds in a newspaper vase. What I also like is that everything is environmentally safe and everybody there is so friendly. And when it came to the end of the day Ms. Hernholm [the Director and Founder of WitKids] gave an announcement that we did Whatever It Takes and that we the kids are successful when we all work together as one whole, and remember keep on doing," Whatever It Takes."
- Emily W. (age 10)

"I had a good time helping WitKids! I got to have fun and make the world a
better place at the same time. No matter what you do, you are always
someone. I got to bag seeds (broccoli, parsnip, mustard etc.), make pots out of
newspapers to use to grow the seeds in, make cards to make people smile and
I got to meet the designer-girl of the WitKids t-shirt. I had the most fun telling people about WitKids and the seeds at the Farmer's Market in Little Italy. I met so many nice people! There is nothing like WitKids!"
- Brody E. (age 8)

A parent's perspective: "WitKids was a special adventure for our family. Not only was it a 'feel good' day doing something good and 'passing it forward', but the day had extra magic as we got to watch our kids GIVE from the heart and do Whatever It Takes to bring a smile to others we walk on the planet with."

Many thanks to the WitKids volunteers for making such a difference in our local community! Interested in other projects with WitKids? Clickhere. Want to volunteer with your entire family? Click here for family-friendly projects.

WitKids-Dinner Garden Feb. 27 Commercial

2010-02-12T11:21:00.000-08:00

A group of WitKids invites YOU to:

WitKids-Dinner Garden Event

February 27th

9:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Amici Park in Little Italy

Get FREE seeds for you, your family, friends, neighbors, etc.!!

Enjoy the local Farmers' Market- Mercato, too!

Hope to see you there!

WitKids-Dinner Garden Disney Day Feb. 27 Press Release

2010-02-10T11:24:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

February 9, 2010

Contact: Sarah Hernholm

Title: Founder, President

Office: 619.677.2238

Email: sarah@witkids.org

WITKIDS AND THE DINNER GARDEN PARTNERING AGAIN FOR

FAMILY FRIENDLY “GIVE A DAY.GET A DISNEY DAY.” VOLUNTEER EVENT

San Diego, CA, Feb. 9, 2010- Last month the WitKids-Dinner Garden Disney Event proved to be a huge success. On January 30, sixty-four families from all over Southern California made their way to Amici Park in Little Italy for a day of volunteering. They spent the day bagging seeds, making pots out of newspaper, learning “Go Green” tips, and in the end earned a free ticket to Disneyland. Emily Wilson, a 5th grader from Rancho Bernardo, said, “My day was spent packaging many different seeds, making cards, and planting seeds in a newspaper vase. Everything was environmentally safe and everybody there was so friendly. When it came to the end of the day an announcement was made that we did Whatever It Takes and that we the kids are successful when we all work together as one whole.” They were successful! At the end of the day over 10,000 seeds were bagged. Many of the bags were distributed to locals interested in growing their own food, community gardeners and students growing their own school gardens. Some seeds were sent to schools in different states where people are solving the hunger problem by growing their own food. Brody Ensor, a 5th grader, summed it up best when he exclaimed, “We are WitKids making the world a better place!”

Due to the great response, WitKids and The Dinner Garden are hosting another “Give A Day. Get a Disney Day” event on February 27, 2010. Everyone is invited to come down between the hours of 9:00 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. to Amici Park in Little Italy to pick up bags of seeds for family, friends, neighbors and classmates. Those interested in volunteering at WitKids events can send an email to info@witkids.org or go to www.witkids.org for more information.

About WitKids, Inc.

Founded in 2009, WitKids, Inc. is a non-profit organization, started by a former San Diego teacher, with a mission to educate, inspire, and empower kids to make a difference in their school, community, and the world through volunteer work and community service. The WitKids program is currently in four San Diego schools (elementary, middle, high school), three states, and at The Daraja Academy in Nairobi.

For more information, please contact:

Sarah Hernholm

WitKids, Inc

sarah@witkids.org

619.677.2238

About The Dinner Garden

The Dinner Garden is a national hunger fighting non-profit organization that gives free fruit and vegetable seeds to anyone in the USA who wants to grow their own food. To date, the Dinner Garden has supplied seeds to over 20,000 individuals, families, and communities.

For more information, please contact:

Holly Hirshberg

The Dinner Garden

holly@dinnergarden.org

210-979-1776

WitKid Brody!

2010-02-08T23:20:00.000-08:00

Enjoy watching this video of WitKid Brody at the WitKids-Dinner Garden Event on January 30, 2010!

It's Been A Whirlwind of WIT!

2010-02-08T12:32:00.000-08:00

Since New Year's day it's been a whirlwind of WIT activities: locally, nationally, and internationally! My favorite highlights from January...by the numbers:

276 ~ Emails received within the first 3 hours of launching WitKids-Dinner Garden Disney Event on January 1, 2010

3,000+ ~ Volunteer emails expressing interest in WitKids event

19,382 ~ Miles traveled by our WitKids International Representative

to launch our first WitKids International Project in Nairobi at the Daraja Academy

500 ~ Fans on our Facebook Page, a great start towards our goal of 2010 Fans in 2010

10,000~ Seeds (at least) bagged during WitKids-Dinner Garden Disney Event.

64 ~ Families that participated in WitKids events

Yet, I think my favorite number of all is one I actually lost track of. It's the number of times kids have come up to me, smiled proudly and said, "I'm a WitKid!".

Thank you to all the WitKids and WitFans out there that made January 2010 a month to remember. I'm so excited to see what the rest of 2010 brings.

Keep doing WHATEVER IT TAKES,

Sarah

WitKids-Dinner Garden Event Commercial

2010-01-28T17:29:00.000-08:00

"Hey WitFans you're so fine....you're so fine you blow our mind!

Come on down and get some seeds in Little Italy this Saturday!"

WitKids-Dinner Garden Event Invitation

2010-01-27T13:18:00.000-08:00

If you've been reading the Union-Tribune, walking around Little Italy, or following our updates on Facebook, you probably already know about the upcoming WitKids event. Those of you learning about it for the first time, we would like to extend an invitation to you~

WitKids-Dinner Garden Event

Get Free Seeds!

Saturday, January 30th

9:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Amici Park, Little Italy

*Get bags of seeds for yourself, friends, classmates, and neighbors

*Learn more about WitKids and The Dinner Garden

*Sign-up for the upcoming WitKids Urban Race

*Stroll through the Little Italy Mercato~

Farmers Market

See you Saturday...

Keep doing WHATEVER IT TAKES! to make the world a better place,

WitKids

WitKids @ T.M. School in Room B-5

2010-01-22T16:28:00.000-08:00

We told the WitKids at Taft Middle School that we would post them doing the WIT Cheer....here they are!!!

p.s. These WitKids are AMAZING~ they are currently working on a "Can't Be Missed" Talent Show and ticket sales are going to help kids living in the local shelters.

Happy 2010!

2010-01-03T18:20:00.000-08:00

WitKids New Year Celebrations!

We are celebrating all those who decided to start off 2010 by giving! Already over 500 volunteers have signed up for the "Give a Day. Get a Disney Day." WitKids-Dinner Garden event on January 30th. Due to the high number of sign-ups we are working with Disney and the HandsOn organization to add more dates. If you and/or your family want to participate in this great event, it's not too late to sign up! Make sure you sign up via Disney to qualify for the Disney ticket (while supplies last).

WitKids Go Urban Race

Are you and your friends/family fans of Amazing Race? Do you enjoy scavenger hunts and obstacle courses? Then our WitKids Go Urban Race is the right choice for you! This kid-friendly technology based scavenger hunt is packed full of physical and mental challenges. Mark you calendars and sign-up now on Active.com! WitKids Go Urban Race is happening in San Diego's beautiful Balboa Park in May 2010.

Way to Go Westwood WitKids!

The WitKids in Room D-29 did WHATEVER IT TAKES! to start the

new year with new sports equipment! When their school was unable to provide the P.E. equipment needed, the WitKids fundraised, hunted for the best deals, and made the trip to Dick's Sporting Goods store over Christmas break to make their final purchase. Thank you to Jeanine, Ted, Meghan, and Vito for helping the WitKids!

WitFans Rock!

Thank you to all the WitFans that supported WitKids in 2009 through donations, volunteering, and moral support! We appreciate you being there for us during our beginning stages, so we've got a little surprise for you...stay tuned. For those of you just joining us, feel free to visit our Facebook page and become Fan! Our new goal? 2010 Fans in 2010!

Here's to a year full of giving and doing WHATEVER IT TAKES! to make this world a better place!

Keep doing WHATEVER IT TAKES!,

Miss H

Weekly Reporter, Seena, Interviews Miss H

2009-12-16T18:58:00.000-08:00

Enjoy watching this fun interview!

Also, don't forget to cast your vote for

your favorite WitKids Logo Design!

Voting ends THIS FRIDAY at 8 a.m..

Pics of Top 4 WitKids Logo Designs- VOTE!

2009-12-13T15:43:00.000-08:00

Here are the Top 4 WitKids Logo Designs

Vote for your Favorite!

1. W.I.T.-WHATEVER IT TAKES!

2. W.I.T.-Flag

3. WitKids -Around the World

4. WitKids-Save The World

It's Time to Vote-WitKids Logo

2009-12-13T13:58:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

You still have 7 more days to vote for your favorite WitKids logo design.

Watch the video to meet the WitKid artists and then cast your vote. You can vote by email sarah@witkids.org or write in the Comment section.

Keep doing WHATEVER IT TAKES!

WIT @ Work

2009-12-04T19:36:00.000-08:00

Another week of WitKids changing the world...1 WitProject at a time!

WitKid Book Drive

5 WitKid boys organized a school-wide WitKid Book Drive. They are now collecting new and/or gently used books to be given to kids at the Holiday Magic for Kids event being put on by the San Diego Coalition for Homeless. These WitKids organized their book drive in less than 24 hours and already have boxes of donations! I can't wait to see the final collection!

WitKid Daraja Academy Well Project

A local classroom full of WitKids chose their International WitKid project! They will work on getting clean water to the girls at The Daraja Academy in Kenya. Their fundraising ideas include recycling water bottles, putting on a talent show, and writing/selling a recipe book. When asked how much they would charge for talent show tickets, Claire said, "$10...since we'll be better than a movie...we will be live." In addition to these fundraising events WitKids, Inc. has also been talking with H20 for Life about the Daraja well project.

WitKid...She Can Dance!

Jackie, a 5th grader, has launched her own WitKid project. She is working on getting her dance troupe prepared for a very special project. Jackie and her dancing friends are getting ready to put on a performance for kids that are in a local hospital. Her WHATEVER IT TAKES! attitude will make this happen and bring smiles to many faces!

WitKids Honor Our Veterans

A group of WitKids are helping get 100 Christmas cards to our local homeless veterans. They are working with Friends of Homeless Veterans. This organization is made up of

a group of individuals that raise money to support homeless veterans. You can see more pics of the WitKid designed Christmas cards here. If you would like to make cards for our veterans, create your own and mail them to

WitKids, Inc.-WHATEVER IT TAKES

1501 India Street
Suite 103-5
San Diego, CA 92101

Each week I get emails from kids locally, nationally, and/or internationally asking how to get involved with WitKids. There are many ways to do WHATEVER IT TAKES!. You can create your own WitProject, participate in an existing WitKid WitProject, or show up for one of our monthly WIT Volunteer Projects through Volunteer San Diego. If you're ready to launch your own WitKid project, visit our website and send us an email. We'll get you started with your own WitKit, and soon you'll be doing WHATEVER IT TAKES!.

All our WitFans...thank you for your support! WitKids love watching our fan number grow on Facebook, so if you haven't already become a fan, visit our page and join! We're at 99 Fans right now...hmmm....I wonder who will be our 100th Fan!

If you'd like to follow us on Twitter....join WitKidsWIT.

I'll leave you with a message from this week's WitKids Weekly Reporters...

Keep doing...WHATEVER IT TAKES

Miss Hernholm

THANK YOU

2009-11-24T17:40:00.000-08:00

Today at the WitKids' Thanksgiving Food Drive I spoke with a little boy, "J", who came with his family to pick up donations:

J- "Where does all this food come from?"

Me- "Well, there was a group of kids that decided all kids should have a Thanksgiving dinner, so they organized a food drive, and kids and people from all over made donations."

J- (long pause...smile) "So, they were being generous?"

Me-"Yes...you could say that."

J- (long pause...eyes widened...big smile) "So, they are like the Rainbow Fish that shared all his scales. He was generous."

Me- (high-fives) "Wow! That's so true!"

As J and I kept talking, I continued to think about the connection he had made to the book The Rainbow Fish and his word choice..."generous".

Thanks to the generosity of WitFans & WitKids, all families (at least 40 kids) received a turkey, a box full of Thanksgiving dinner supplies, and a week's supply of groceries. Each box was decorated with art work by WitKids from different schools in San Diego.

There are so many generous people and businesses that did Whatever It Takes to make this WitKid Thanksgiving Food Drive a success. Thank you....

Caffe Italia-

Thank you for letting us have our WitKid donation box at the caffe for 3 days! Locals, make sure you stop by the caffe for one of their signature drinks...delicious!

Albertson's 14th Street-

Those of you living and/or working downtown I encourage you to do your grocery shopping at this great store. The manager, Tommy, helped us stay on budget and get turkeys for our families. If you see Tommy while you're shopping, thank him for helping the WitKids. He really did Whatever It Takes!. (D- your generous donation provided the turkeys!)

(Me and Tommy + a cart full of turkeys!)

City of Refuge-

I'm often amazed at how much this organization does for San Diego's homeless and families in need. When I was teaching, City of Refuge helped many of my students get food and clothing. When I needed their help yesterday...once again they delivered! Last night I asked for extra groceries, and when I showed up today there were bags ready for me. Thank you! All WitFans...City of Refuge welcomes your donations of clothing, furniture, etc.. They will even come to your house and pick it up!

Go Postal!

Your donation guaranteed that all the kids had pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving dessert! I think the kids were most excited about seeing that yummy pie in their box.

There are many of you out there that anonymously contributed and dropped food in our WitKid box. Thank you! (We especially enjoyed the brown bags that were decorated with Thanksgiving messages and full of goodies.)

The 2009 WitKids' Thanksgiving Food Drive was a success because all the WitFans & WitKids worked together and did Whatever It Takes!

Thank you for your generosity...

Keep doing Whatever It Takes,

Miss Hernholm

D-29 WitKids- Food Drive News

2009-11-19T12:28:00.000-08:00

WitKid Weekly Reporters

2009-11-16T11:25:00.000-08:00

2009-11-15T18:56:00.000-08:00

WitKids @ Work
We kick off the WitKid Thanksgiving Food Drive this Wednesday, November 18th at Caffe Italia. Come to Little Italy, donate a non-perishable item(s), and help us do WHATEVER IT TAKES!. We will be accepting donations Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 7 am - 10 pm. Our goal is to help at least 15 families this year. If you can't make it to Caffe Italia, you can send a donation to:

WitKids, Inc.- Whatever It Takes

Thanksgiving Food Drive

1501 India Street Suite 103-5

San Diego, CA 92101

(pic is from last year's food drive...let's do it again this year!)

VSD + WIT

This week Volunteer San Diego (VSD) asked if WIT would be interested in partnering with VSD. My answer? Yes! You will now be able to find our monthly volunteer projects on their Event Calendar. I'm excited about the opportunities this partnership will bring.

WitTV

This week I found myself on the set of The Singing Bee waiting for a meeting about WIT. Many of you know how much I like to break into song, so when the band started to play one of my favorite songs...I really had to hold back. So, instead of singing loudly...I just sang softly to the guy sitting next to me.

As for the status of WitTV? I hope to tell you more in 2-3 weeks. It's so exciting!!!

WitKids

To all the WitKids and WitFans out there, we are still accepting logo submissions. You can email them or mail them to me. Want to get inspired? Check out some of the logo ideas we have received here.

WitFan of the Week

Steve- owner of Caffe Italia

Thanks to Steve for always being willing to help out when it comes to the kids! He is doing whatever it takes to make this year's Thanksgiving Food Drive a success. Thank you!

WitKid of the Week

Garrett from W.W.

Garrett's enthusiasm and dedication for doing WIT deserves to be applauded. He spent many hours preparing and helping out at the first W.W. fundraising event. Garrett also submitted an inspiring and creative logo idea, and he earned a spot as a WitKid Reporter. Way to go, Garrett!

All of my students past and present...I'm proud of you!

All of the WitFans and friends that have been supporting WIT...I appreciate you!

Everyone....keep doing WHATEVER IT TAKES!

Love,

Miss Hernholm

Extra..Extra..Read All About WIT!

2009-11-05T22:15:00.000-08:00

Words of WIT

What does WIT mean to WitKids?....

We do whatever we can do to make our school better.–Cameron 9 years old

Whatever It Takes is not just a name

It’s a way to help….

It’s you, it’s me, it’s we.

-William 11 years old

We fix the school

We fix the world

We spread the word so everyone can hear

-Michael 10 years old

WIT Schools

Sunset Room 5- Check out the video WitKids Macallister and Allyson made about doing WIT. Room 5 WitKids have done an amazing job inspiring others to do WIT. They even encouraged the Room 8 kids to start their own WIT project- fixing the basketball hoops on the playground.

W.W. Room D-29- Congrats on raising $300 at the Fall Festival!! A big thank you to Mr. Mitchell for donating some of the supplies. It’s exciting to think about how close the D-29ers are to meeting their goal. New sports equipment is right around the corner. J

Taft Room B-5- Exciting news! A WitFan saw the video Dashaun and Layla made about wanting to have Easy Turf on part of the school’s field and…..they want to help! So, the WitKids in B-5 are in meetings trying to get everything figured out. Way to do WHATEVER IT TAKES!

WitWorld

Nancy Hanssen is taking WIT to Kenya’s Daraja Academy in early 2010. This will be a fact-finding mission as Nancy researches the 1^st International WIT Project.

WIT @ Work

Thanksgiving Dinner- WIT has chosen 15 families for our annual Thanksgiving Dinner Drive. These families were chosen based on financial need and family situation. If it wasn’t for WIT and all of you WitFans, these families would not have a Thanksgiving meal, and as WitKid Michael said, “It’s not the kids’ fault, so we should help the whole family, they shouldn’t miss out on Thanksgiving.”

Michael’s Proposed Thanksgiving Menu- Turkey, Bread, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Green Beans, Pumpkin Pie

If you would like to donate food or make a monetary donation, please email me at shernholm@hotmail.com

November Volunteer Project- Come join us on November 28^th for a beach clean-up in Ocean Beach. Maybe we can even have lunch at Hodad's? Yum! Hope to see all of you there. Feel free to email me if you need more information.

WIT Beach- WIT has adopted a beach through San Diego's Adopt-a-Beach program. Our part of the beach is located in Mission Bay. We will be planning the first clean-up of WIT Beach soon. Stay tuned.

WitKids

Keep those emails and drawings coming. The t-shirt designs all of you are coming up with are wonderful! You have until the end of the month to submit your design ideas.

I'm so proud of all you WitKids! You are changing the world...one WIT project at a time.

Keep showing Character Counts..and

Keep doing WHATEVER IT TAKES!

Love,

Miss Hernholm

Remember to check us out on our WitKids Facebook Page...become a Fan!

p.s. The pic is of last year's Thanksgiving Dinners. Let's do it again this year...we can do it..WHATEVER IT TAKES!

W.I.T. in The Big Apple

2009-10-26T14:17:00.000-07:00

NY State of Mind

Sitting on the plane about to depart NYC, I can't help but think back on one of the highlights of the trip. Two hours into cleaning up the neighborhood park, a young girl turned to me, leaned on her rake, and said, "I'm so tired, but this is so much fun." She sighed, smiled, and then went back to raking. We continued to work together and with the help of some other kids, we picked up litter, cut back overgrown ivy, cleared a path, and planted some bulbs.

It rained on and off throughout the morning, but nothing could dampen our spirits. As my time there came to an end, I was struck by what had occurred in only a few hours. A dozen people ranging in ages, and from different parts of the country and city, had come together and bonded over one common goal- to make a difference...and we did. I left the park soaking wet, smiling, and thinking, "I'm so tired, but that was so much fun."

D-29ers do WHATEVER IT TAKES!
Wow, with only a week to prep for a fundraising activity, the D-29ers managed to pull off a great event and raise $300! This $ will go towards purchasing new sports equipment for their school. They are wonderful examples of teamwork and of what it means to do W.I.T.!

Play Ball!
Now the Room 5 students no longer have to use rocks for bases. As William said, “It gets really confusing to figure out which rock is what base.” Recess games should run more smoothly now that “Bases on the Field” is completed. High-fives all around!

B-5 Students Stay Positive…
Despite the fact they were told that their project will cost between $500k-$1mil., the students in B-5 are staying positive. As one kid said, “We’re gonna have to sell a lot of lemonade!” They think the next step will be meeting with the district personnel to explain their project and seek more support. They are also considering starting a smaller project (perhaps a school garden) that they can work on as they continue to get a field built at their school. I don’t think anything will keep these kids from doing W.I.T..
W.I.T. Around the World
As many of you know, W.I.T. projects are done locally and around the U.S., but did you know that we are going international?! This spring we will be partnering with a school in Lithuania and our next stop is Kenya. Mrs. Hanssen had a chance to visit the young women at Daraja Academy in Kenya and found them to be an intelligent and inspiring group of learners. She also found out that their school might close because there isn’t any clean water for the students. They need a well which will cost about $3,000.
Back to the Big Apple
I’ve been invited to come back to NYC in a couple months for another community service project. If I can…I’ll be there. Thanks to the supporters and fans of W.I.T. we continue to grow and get busier and busier. We’re thrilled about the progress and although it can be tiring… “this is so much fun!”
Keep showing CHARACTER COUNTS! and….
Keep doing WHATEVER IT TAKES!
Love,
Miss Hernholm
P.S. To all you WitKids out there from 2005- the present you are inspiring & amazing!
P.P.S. Check out our WitKids Facebook page and our Cause Page…become a fan. J

Some Firsts for WHATEVER IT TAKES!

2009-10-18T23:05:00.000-07:00

1st Fundraiser

Last Thursday Room 5 did their lemonade stand for "Bases on the Field", and it was a success. They sold over 100 cups of lemonade, and when the staff in the district office heard what Room 5 was doing, personal checks were written to support the Room 5 cause. The students reached their goal in 1 day! I am so impressed with what the students have done, and happy to see them walking a little taller. They have made a difference, they are feeling empowered..they have done "WHATEVER IT TAKES!".

1st Graduate Class

As most of you know, I've taught preschool, 2nd grade, 4th grade, and 5th grade. Last week I got to add another "grade" to that list. I was asked by Mrs. Hanssen to be a guest lecturer for a graduate class at USD. At first I was nervous, but once I started talking about one of my favorite subjects (Character Education & Community Service) I relaxed and had a fabulous time! I can't wait to get back there tomorrow night. I think there are some future W.I.T teachers in that class.

1st Donation

WHATEVER IT TAKES! is in the process of becoming a non-profit, and in the meantime we raise money by selling WHATEVER IT TAKES! bracelets and accepting donations. This week we sold our 1st bracelets and received our first donation. We are celebrating!

1st International W.I.T. project

This spring we will be doing our 1st International W.I.T project in Lithuania. Next stop...Kenya.

1st Timers

All of you who haven't been able to make it to a monthly W.I.T. volunteer project...mark your calendars for Saturday, November 28th. We will be doing another beach cleanup. Can't wait to see all of you there. (Ashely & Kaela, I hope you can come again!)

1st Place

Would you like to win 1st place in our W.I.T. t-shirt design contest? If you think you have an award winning design idea for our 1st t-shirt, email me for more details at shernholm@hotmail.com.

Many of you have asked how you can learn more about W.I.T.. You can always become a fan on our WHATEVER IT TAKES! Facebook page and/or check out our Causes Facebook page- WitKids WHATEVER IT TAKES!. You can check out pictures, video blogs, and meet other WitFans.

Have a wonderful week & keep doing WHATEVER IT TAKES!

Miss Hernholm

Week of W.I.T.

2009-10-11T19:56:00.000-07:00

W.I.T. Bracelets...

A big round of applause for the 100+ WitKids that are sporting the blue bracelet! You are carrying the WHATEVER IT TAKES! message far and wide. You should be so proud of yourselves! All of you are making a difference in your school, community, and the world. Go WitKids! (the pic is of some B-5 students showing you their W.I.T. bracelets)

Lemonade for Sale...

Room 5 students hung their fabulous posters around the school last week and are getting ready for their first sale on Thursday! Mrs. Hanssen deserves a big "Shout Out" because she has managed to get 4 grade levels involved in this project. Each student has an important job and they are excited to start selling!!!

WitKids Around the Country...

Soon we will be starting WitKid groups in different parts of the country. These groups will be run by my previous students. So far Virginia, Colorado, and Florida are all possible places. If you'd like to run a WitKid group, email me and let me know.

On Our Way...

Steps are being taken to register WHATEVER IT TAKES! as a non-profit organization. This is an exciting process and when it is completed it will be a dream come true!! We are doing WHATEVER IT TAKES to make it happen. Stay tuned...

Tune In...

The video blogs are much cooler now that kids are in them! I think you'll like watching them. You can find this week's here. I know the sound quality is a bit off, but the boys are just so great...I had to post it! Next week there will be more kids making videos and sharing how they are doing W.I.T..

New York City...

In less than two weeks I will be heading to NYC to do a couple volunteer projects and catch up with W.I.T. fans. It's exciting to see the W.I.T. message reaching all the way to the east coast!

I'm so proud of all you WitKids and am grateful for all the WitFans. (WitFans are the adults out there wearing the W.I.T. bracelet and doing W.I.T..) Thank you for believing in the message...and the kids. We couldn't do it without you!

Keep on doing W.I.T.,

Miss Hernholm

W.I.T. in San Fran

2009-10-04T16:17:00.000-07:00

Greetings from San Francisco!

First off, I LOVE this city! I appreciate its beauty, history, and most importantly the people here that are doing WHATEVER IT TAKES!. On Saturday we saw parents and children working together to landscape their school and plant a school garden. They were offering those that passed by bagels and coffee to lend a helping hand. Everyone was pitching in! I'll be posting the before & after pics for you to enjoy.

The Latest in San Diego-

I'm now working at 3 schools and with 3 different classrooms. Each are full of talented, intelligent, and inspiring WitKids...Room 5, Room B-5, and Room D-29.

I continue to be impressed by the students' enthusiasm and willingness to do WHATEVER IT TAKES!. Their W.I.T. projects include a Field Improvement Project, a Samoa Fundraiser, a Playground Remodel, and as you know Room 5 is taking good care of an orphaned elephant, Mutara.

(Picture is of B-5 students prepping for their final pitch...their project won the most votes!)

Upcoming Events-

Next Saturday is the monthly W.I.T Volunteer Project. It looks like we will be doing a San Diego River Cleanup. If you’d like more information email me at sarah@witkids.org.

Do you have a good idea for the monthly W.I.T. Volunteer Project? If so, let me know!

Shout Outs-

Way to go Justin & William! They met with their principal and got approval for their fundraising event. Start squeezing those lemons…you’ve got over 250 people to serve!

B-5…I like how you’re wearing your W.I.T. bracelets with pride and passing on the WHATEVER IT TAKES! message.

Sports Chalet- Thanks for supporting the kids and for doing WHATEVER IT TAKES!.

I'm off to enjoy more of San Fran....

Keep doing WHATEVER IT TAKES!....

Miss Hernholm

W.I.T. Questions & Answers

2009-09-27T22:53:00.000-07:00

There are certain questions that I am frequently asked in classrooms, emails, and meetings. So, this post is all about giving you the answers……

Q: When did “Whatever It Takes!” start?

A: One night when I was setting up my first classroom, I grabbed some paint and butcher paper. I painted “Whatever It Takes!” and hung the banner above the whiteboard. It became our classroom motto, and we applied it to everything we did. When Hurricane Katrina hit, we did our first “Whatever It Takes!” fundraiser. Since then over 100 students have been involved in doing “Whatever It Takes!”.

Q: What’s a “WitKid”?

A: A “WitKid” is a kid that does “Whatever It Takes!” to be successful at school, in their community, and as a citizen of the world. You can often find “WitKids” doing community service and organizing local and international volunteer projects. You will often notice that “WitKids” show Character Counts whenever they are doing “Whatever It Takes!”.

Q: Is there a website?

A: We are currently working on getting our website www.witkids.org up and running. We hope to have you using it by early October.

Q: Can any classroom get involved in the “Whatever It Takes!” program?

A: Yes. If you want us to come to your classroom and help you get a “Whatever It Takes!” project started, just email me at shernholm@hotmail.com and tell us why we should come to you!

Q: Are there other ways to get involved in “Whatever It Takes!”?

A: Yes. Even if your class isn’t involved, YOU can come to our local monthly community service events. A couple of weeks ago we did a Mission Beach cleanup, and next month we might be doing a San Diego River cleanup. If you have any suggestions for our "W.I.T." monthly community service activity, just email them to me- shernholm@hotmail.com.

Q: Is there a “Whatever It Takes!” TV show?

A: Many of my D-9 students know that I have been working on the show idea for 3 years. Recently, I partnered with my friend Ellen (we met on ELF) and we have been working on getting it produced and distributed. I’ve really enjoyed being back in the TV world. I trust that all of my students will be loyal viewers!

Q: When are the bracelets coming?

A: We hope to get them in 2 weeks. I think you will like the message we had printed on the inside.

Q: Do you still sing and dance in the classroom Miss Hernholm?

A: This is one of the most frequently asked questions. The answer is.....YES!!!! Of course!

A Week of "Whatever It Takes!"

2009-09-20T19:44:00.000-07:00

Highlights From The Week….

Room 5-Dreaming and Believing is happening in Room 5. The kids are doing “Whatever It Takes!” to turn their playground dream into a reality. They believe in their project and are working hard to get it done! Next week they are meeting with their school principal to present their project idea. So exciting!

Whatever It Takes Beach Cleanup- Saturday the sun was shining and the largest number of volunteers (750) showed up to participate in the 25th Anniversary California Coastal Cleanup Day. Together we picked up more than 1,400 pounds of trash. Our “Whatever It Takes!” group got to learn more about what is happening with The Great Pacific Garbage Patch from San Diego Coastkeeper. They showed us a jar full of Pacific Ocean water and as Kaela said, “That sample from the ocean was amazing! There was so much garbage in that tiny little cylinder!”. We also got to snack on treats

from Ben & Jerry’s, Whole Foods, and even Whale Tails. The event ended on a screaming note as we enjoyed a ride on the Belmont Rollercoaster! Hope all of you can make it to the next event.

B-5 Students- Congrats on being the next class chosen to do 'Whatever It Takes!'. Based on what Mrs. Victor has told me, you are a creative, intelligent, and lively group of 6th graders! I'm looking forward to meeting all of you...and Bubbles. Have you decided what project ideas you are going to pitch to me? Look around your school, community, and neighborhood and decide what YOU want to change! See you soon.

“Whatever It Takes!” TV Show- Ellen and I were in LA for dinner with a TV program developer from Mosaic. Another meeting…another step in the right direction!

Have a fantastic week and keep those emails and comments coming,

Miss Hernholm

Special “Shout Outs!”

M thanks for the support.

Mary & Ray thank you for making the effort!

Kaela & Ashley you make picking up trash fun!

Wendy we appreciate your time and advice.

Doing 'Whatever It Takes!' Locally

2009-09-11T16:13:00.000-07:00

Many of you know that while Ellen and I work on the TV version of 'Whatever It Takes!' in Los Angeles, I work on a local version right here in San Diego. I spend time with different kids and support them as they do 'Whatever It Takes' at their schools and in their communities.

Here's what's going on with Room 5.....

This morning I listened to different groups pitch me their ‘Whatever It Takes!’ project ideas. So creative! Some students put their presentation to song, others drew pictures, there was even a dance routine! The one thing they all had in common was the conviction that their cause/project should be chosen. Yet, there could only be one winner…and the winner was…(drum roll please)…… Group #2!

Group #2 proposed a revamping of the school’s playground field, which is in need of bases. Instead of waiting for the school to fix the problem, they are going to raise the money by organizing a recycling fundraiser. As one of the student's said, “It may be hard, but if anyone can do it, Room 5 can.” I believe him!

Do 'Whatever It Takes!' September 19th…

I’m thrilled to announce that our local ‘Whatever It Takes!’ group is going to participate in the 25^th Annual Coastal Cleanup Day! Our group is going to do the beach cleanup in Mission Bay near the Belmont Roller Coaster (yes, you get a free ticket to ride the rollercoaster if you participate in the cleanup J). I’m happy to hear that Kaela and Ashley are hoping to be there. Anyone else? It would be great to get as many of you as possible. If you want more info email me at shernholm@hotmail.com .

"Shout Out!"….

Recently I asked how many of you were still doing ‘Whatever It Takes!’ in your life. “Shout Out” to Valerie for getting her friends together to do a community service project. I can’t wait to hear what they come up with! If you want to get inspired visit Do Something and/or Kids Care. Let me know how you do 'Whatever It Takes!'.

Keep those emails/posts coming...

I love hearing from you,

Miss Hernholm

Lights...Camera...Room 5

2009-09-04T15:05:00.000-07:00

First things first: the voting results….

Title of Show- Based on the emails I received the winning show title is 'Whatever It Takes!'. That’s right, the name of the TV show is going to be our classroom motto ‘Whatever It Takes!’. Thank you to everyone for submitting their suggestions/ideas!

Theme Song- The winning song (based on emails + blog voting results) is ‘Send It On’ by Disney Friends. So, we are going to try and get that song connected to the show. Cross your fingers!

Now onto….Lights…Camera…Room 5…..

While Hollywood gets onboard with ‘Whatever It Takes!’, I have been meeting with kids who are already doing ‘Whatever It Takes!’. Today I met with Room 5. I knew Room 5 was going to be a special group of kids when I heard about their recent effort to do ‘Whatever It Takes!’ in Africa. After hearing about their teacher’s recent adventures in Kenya, they decided

to adopt an elephant named Mutara, who had recently been orphaned. In order to fund this project they have started ‘Pennies for Mutara’. I was so proud of their efforts that I decided to pay them a visit today.

While cameras were rolling the words, “Little hands can make a big difference,” were spoken. The young boy spoke them with such conviction and confidence that I knew I had chosen the right class for the first ‘Whatever it Takes!’ local project. They came up with some wonderful ideas and their enthusiasm was contagious. I look forward to sharing their progress on their most recent local project with all of you!

Are you someone who is doing ‘Whatever It Takes!’? Are you making positive changes in your community? If so, write what you’ve been doing in the Comment section or email me at shernholm@hotmail.com. Maybe my next visit will be to YOU!

:-),

Miss Hernholm

(the picture is of me with the Room 5 Teacher-Mrs.Hanssen)

S-U-C-C-E-S-S...Success!

2009-08-27T14:04:00.000-07:00

Let's get this blog started...Clap those hands and bang those desks...cause here we go...

"Who's in the house? ___is in the house!

We do whatever it takes! We do whatever it takes!

To be a S-U-C-C-E-S-S...Success!"

Remember doing that cheer in class?!

Well, I had it going through my head at 6 a.m. this morning as I was getting ready for my meeting with abc. When I turned on my computer I discovered that my powerpoint presentation was not working properly (yikes!). As our cheer was running through my mind, I solved the problem, made a few changes and was out the door!

The meeting was a S-U-C-C-E-S-S! They loved the idea and enjoyed hearing about my "kids" and how much you inspire me. I talked with them about our class motto, showing Character Counts, and some of the volunteer projects you did (remember the Katrina Library fundraiser, the school in Afghanistan, the Olympic mural, and all the donations for the families hurt by the wildfires?). I even gave examples of times you showed Whatever It Takes in the classroom.

Right now it looks like I will be back up in LA next week for a couple more meetings. It's such fun having all of you on this adventure with me. Just think of how exciting it will be to watch it on TV! Do you think we should have a party?!

Keep doing Whatever It Takes...

Much Love,

Miss Hernholm

P.S. Hmmmm...Who can guess what I wrote after the meeting?

Ellen took this picture of me after

our celebratory lunch!

Whatever It Takes

2009-08-19T10:35:00.000-07:00

I have to start my first blog by thanking all of my fabulous students from Calvary, Midland Elementary, Westwood Elementary and Washington Elementary. All of you have taught me the importance of doing Whatever It Takes and showing Character Counts! You have been my inspiration!

As many of you know, I have decided to leave the classroom and work full-time on my kids reality TV show. I'm excited about getting this show on TV, as I know it will change the lives of thousands of kids and millions of viewers.

Since I am out of the classroom and no longer able to talk with all of you in person, I decided to create this blog. I'm hoping that all of you (and your friends) will follow this blog and share your comments and opinions. Remember all the times you got to vote and express your opinion in class? Well, think of this blog as our classroom. Since I am making this show for you...for kids...I need to know what you want!

My first question for you is.... "What should the name of the show be?" As you know, it's a show about kids getting out there, having fun, and learning. Any ideas? Feel free to post your idea on here or send me an email. We will do a vote and the winner receives a prize. I can't wait to see what you come up with!

I'm so happy to have all of you on this journey with me. I couldn't do it without you!

Thanks for being the most fabulous students!!! :-)

Keep doing whatever it takes...

Miss Hernholm

P.S. Guess who my producing partner is? A friend I made while making ELF. I know many of you loved that movie and you will love Ellen...she is awesome!

P.P.S. Just like in class, if I make any spelling and/or grammar mistakes in my writing, feel free to let me know! :-) Hmmmm...maybe I will even do some on purpose to see if you catch them. ;-)