Our generation of young people is one that needs dreams to hold onto. The whole mission of Destination ImagiNation is to become the global leader in teaching the creative process from imagination to innovation while also developing leadership and integrity, among many other skills. DI is a nation-wide, volunteer, non-profit organization that allows youth of all ages to solve real world problems through creativity and teamwork.
There are several different types of team challenges. These challenges are broken down into the categories of technical, scientific, fine arts, improvisational, structural, service learning, and early learning. All team solutions are assessed at a regional tournament, an affiliate tournament, or global finals. Local volunteers help run over 200 Destination Imagination tournaments every year worldwide.
Since its inception 30 years ago, Destination ImagiNation has impacted more than 1.5 million young people who have gone to attend top-tiered universities, receive national awards and launch successful careers in art, science, and math.
The Bob Jones High School DI team, lead and directed by Mrs. Robin Dauma, gives students an opportunity to learn creative skills and engage in teamwork. Being able to work well with others in a crucial skill that should be developed at an early age. It is a skill that we will need each and every day of our lives. Not only does DI stress the importance of and teach effective teamwork, it also teaches students leadership. Being able to utilize these skills effectively builds character, confidence, and most importantly, gives students a sense of self worth and purpose.
“The kids that do exceptionally well in my group are the kids who are willing to take risks and use their energy to come up with their own unique ideas while working with others and their ideas to improve their own,” says Mrs. Dauma about her DI students. She has been involved with Destination ImagiNation for several years. “I participated in the 80’s, then I was a judge for the competition during college, and I later became a sponsor in 1995 and have been one ever since.” Mrs. Dauma is one of many teachers that aspire to allow youth to express themselves through creativity, and learn to solve real world problems through the power of teamwork.
Destination ImagiNation has worked persistently for nearly 30 years to give every youth the opportunity to learn crucial skills such as leadership, integrity, honesty, and collaboration. Kids are exposed to several different scenarios that help build their character and self worth. DI just may be the change that our generation needs. Destination ImagiNation beautifully expresses to these youth that they have a divine purpose in this world, and that nothing should ever hinder them from reaching even their wildest dreams.
