Walk SONJ Cool Schools Challenge

Walk SONJ Cool Schools Challenge

April 1- May 31, 2026

Through the Cool Schools Challenge, Unified Champion Schools participate virtually to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics New Jersey and their own school.

Schools benefit directly from their efforts: 50% of every dollar raised beyond the registration fee is returned to the school to support future UCS programming. The more you raise, the more you give back to your school! There are no restrictions to this funding, so you can use the money however you’d like – to buy new uniforms, throw a pizza party, purchase hoodies for your team, etc.

How to Register Your Team

• Designate one primary contact per school to register as a team.
• Visit the registration page and select “Create a Team”
• Once the team is registered, that individual should share the team name with the school community.

How to Join Your School’s Team

• Students, staff, and supporters should visit the registration page, select “register,” and select “join a team”
• Type in the team’s name and select the correct team
• Each registrant will pay the registration fee online and begin fundraising

Participating Virtually

The Cool Schools Challenge will take place virtually!

Schools can participate in a way that best fits their community. Virtual participation options include:

• Team Participation: Schedule a day and time for team members to come together and complete an activity. This can be the original challenge (a walk), a shortened version, or any team-building activity of your choice. 
• Individual Participation: Encourage team members to complete a challenge on their own – such as a full 5k, a shorter walk, or another personal activity. 
• Fundraiser-only option: Participate by fundraising without organizing a physical activity or event. 

In-Person Participation

If you’d like to participate in person, you’re welcome to join one of the 13 Walk SONJ events happening across the state on May 16 at 10:00AM. Register here.

Please note: The Cool Schools Challenge applies only to virtual participation and does not apply to in-person Walk SONJ events. 

Additional Information

Please contact UCS@SONJ.org with any questions!