Together We Rise: Mental Health Fitness Challenge

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Montreal, February 4, 2026-  Two high schools- John F. Kennedy and LINKS High School- and four primary schools- Pierre de Coubertin Elementary School, Nesbitt Elementary School, John Caboto Academy, and Carlyle Elementary School - are proud to announce their joint participation in the Push-Up Challenge for Mental Health Awareness, taking place from February 5 to February 23.

Inspired by the national initiative The Push-Up Challenge, this program encourages participants to complete daily push-ups while learning about mental health and supporting those who may be struggling. Originally launched in Australia in 2017, the challenge has grown into an international movement, engaging thousands of participants across Canada and around the world.

Otis Grant

This collaborative initiative is being led by Personal Development and Community Involvement Animators (PDCIA) Vince Lacroce, Veronica D’Agata, and Mary Poullas, in partnership with the Physical Education departments and administrative teams from each participating school, as well as valued community partners: retired Canadian boxer and founder of the Otis Grant & Friends Foundation, Otis Grant; Director and Owner of MIKE FM 105.1, Warren Haughton; and Co-Owner of Bernie Beignes, Dean Giannarakis.

The challenge highlights the importance of mental well-being and promotes open conversations about mental health within school communities. Each push-up represents a person facing mental health challenges and serves as a reminder that, although life may sometimes push us down, we all have the strength to rise again.

“Our goal is to remind every student and staff member that they are not alone,” said Vince Lacroce. “This challenge is about more than fitness; it is about building resilience, compassion, and a culture where people feel safe to speak up and seek support. When our schools come together like this, we send a powerful message that mental health matters.”

Throughout the challenge, students and staff are encouraged to participate at their own pace and ability level, emphasizing inclusion, personal growth, and community support rather than competition. By working together, the participating schools aim to reduce stigma, strengthen connections, and foster environments where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. Each school will be challenged to achieve 2,000 push-ups as a collective.

On  Monday, February 23 at 12:45 p.m., legendary Montreal boxer Otis Grant will address all participating schools virtually, speaking about perseverance, giving back to the community, and the importance of ending the stigma surrounding mental health. Schools involved in the campaign will also receive a sweet treat from Dean Giannarakis (Bernie Beignes) for a select group of students who have exemplified the campaign’s values and demonstrated leadership, empathy, compassion, and determination.

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