Compiled by The Bedford Citizen
Bedford’s Rob Ackerman is known to many as a third-degree black belt black and instructor at Callahan’s Karate Studio. He is also an elementary education major entering his sophomore year at Endicott College in Beverly.
The Breaking Through ALS Challenge was started by the martial arts community to honor Kevin Thompson, a grand master in karate stricken by ALS. Similar to the well-known ice bucket challenge, this event has participants breaking boards for their donation.
Ackerman lost his grandfather to ALS before he was born, and with his personal commitment to karate, the Challenge was a natural fit. Supported by his instructors, Richard and Winnie Callahan, the Challenge has raised $7,201. The total has increased solidly each year: in 2015, the Challenge raised $1,841; in 2016 we raised $2,360, and this year the total was more than$3,000.
“For me, the Challenge is a great way to engage all our students from the Mini Dragons at age 3 up through the adults,” said Ackerman, “and to raise money in a fun way for an important cause. I can teach children valuable life lessons in charity and helping others, and along the way have some fun by breaking boards.
As he has done in years past, Ackerman created a video wrap up showing each of Bedford’s Challenge participants, and the total funds raised as they accumulate. Watch for Dave Venuti, Sue Baldauf, Chief Grunes, Chief Bongiorno and a host of others, even some who break multiple boards with a single blow!
Further donations are welcome and can be made at https://bit.ly/CKALS17
This year’s Challenge included both Bedford’s Fire Chief David Grunes and Police Chief Robert Bongiorno.
Editor’s Note: Endicott College opened a new Pete Frates Dorm and completed an ice bucket challenge with 2000 participants. Earlier today, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh declared Tuesday to be Pete Frates Day in Boston to honor Frates’ personal battle with ALS and the ice bucket challenges it has inspired.
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