Redefining Possible

Since losing his legs from the pelvis down at the age of five, Spencer has defied all odds. Among other things, he climbed and summited Mt. Kilimanjaro, opened for Demi Lovato for her concert tour in North America, and was recognized by Congress for his contributions to society. When Spencer speaks to a group, he encourages all to stand up, face challenges, and accept change. “We all have the ability to make a difference," is Spencer's take-home message. 

The WE Schools Program challenges students to identify a local and global issue that they are passionate about and work on taking action to make a change on that issue. Students who take action on their initiatives or raise the appropriate funds are eligible for a ticket to a WE Day celebration in their area. This event brings thousands of students together to celebrate how they have made a difference and change in the world.

Harbor Day is one of the first schools in Southern California to take part in the WE Schools Program. Harbor Day Parent and WE Schools Program co-chairwoman for WE Day Southern California 2016, Stephanie Argyros (‘84), introduced the program to Harbor Day in 2015. A group of Harbor Day upper school students have embraced the WE Schools mission and are working on a water initiative this school year to provide people in the developing world access to clean water for life. This project is completely student-driven and reflects their concerns, passions, and talents. The students have worked on this project since the fall by participating in Harbor Day School’s Make A Difference Day, hosting bake sales, and selling slime and Rafiki bracelets. In total the students helped raise $1,500, which is $500 more than their goal amount. These funds will help rehabilitate a community well and provide lifetime access to clean water for two families in a developing country.

Many students like eighth grader Emma Peets wanted to join a great cause. “The reason why I wanted to join is because all of my friends were doing it, and I knew it was a great way to stay involved and donate my time.” Just like Spencer, many students across the country and the world are thinking of ways they can redefine possible.