Ice Bucket Challenge

Ice Bucket Challenge

Ice Bucket Challenge is a viral internet activity that gained significant popularity in the summer of 2014. The challenge involves dumping a bucket of ice water over a person's head to promote awareness of the disease Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and encourage donations to research.

Origin

The Ice Bucket Challenge originated in the United States in June 2014 when professional golfer Chris Kennedy was nominated by a friend to participate in the challenge. The challenge quickly spread among professional athletes and eventually reached the wider public.

Procedure

Participants in the Ice Bucket Challenge are expected to film themselves having a bucket of ice water poured on their heads. They then nominate others to do the same within 24 hours or donate money to ALS research. Many participants choose to do both.

Impact

The Ice Bucket Challenge has been credited with raising significant funds for ALS research. The ALS Association reported that they received $115 million in donations from July 29 to August 28 in 2014, compared to $2.8 million during the same period in 2013. The challenge also significantly increased public awareness of the disease and the need for further research.

Criticism

Despite its success, the Ice Bucket Challenge has been criticized for various reasons. Some critics argue that it promotes slacktivism, a form of activism that requires little effort or commitment. Others have raised concerns about the environmental impact of wasting water, particularly in regions affected by drought.

See also

• Viral phenomenon
• Charitable organization
• Social media activism