The Ice Bucket Challenge is making a powerful comeback in 2025, but this time with an even broader mission. The viral sensation, which was originally launched in 2014 to raise awareness and funds for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) research, has returned to promote mental health and strengthen community engagement. Students from around the world, including those at BVH, started to join the trend by dumping buckets of ice water over themselves and sharing the videos online to show their support.
This modern revival of the challenge has taken on a deeper meaning, with students uniting across platforms to spotlight local communities and the importance of mental wellness. By nominating friends, encouraging donations and supporting local shops and initiatives, participants created a ripple effect of positivity and activism.
An article published by NCB News shared the Mental Illness Needs Discussion (MIND Club) started a #SpeakYourMIND campaign on Instagram in early March. The Ice Bucket Challenge was brought back to help raise money for Active Minds, a group that supports young people and works to make mental health easier to talk about.
One of the key voices behind this renewed movement is Wade Jefferson, a junior at the University of Southern Carolina (USC) who founded the MIND club after losing two friends to suicide. His club launched the campaign to help make conversations about mental health feel more normal and easier for people to have. What first started as a small effort quickly turned into something much bigger. Jefferson had only hoped to raise $500 and expected the campaign to stay within the USC campus. Instead, it went viral, spreading across social media and inspiring students nationwide. This unexpected momentum has sparked even more creative efforts from students looking to make a difference in their own communities.
According to journalist Nina Tran in the article, Ice bucket challenge back with a splash: Why University of SC students are reviving the trend,“Noteworthy participants of the latest revival include makeup artist James Charles and NFL players Peyton Manning and Emmanuel Sanders.”
The challenge’s comeback has reminded many of just how powerful the original movement was. According to the article, Ice Bucket Challenge returns with a twist in 2025. Here’s what cause it’s supporting:, the Ice Bucket Challenge raised millions of dollars.
The return of the Ice Bucket Challenge shows just how much can happen when people come together for a good cause. What started as a way to raise money for ALS has now grown into a movement that also supports conversations surrounding mental health issues and local communities. With students leading the way and getting creative, the challenge is making a big impact nationwide again. Whether it’s pouring ice water over their heads or spreading the word online, everyone who takes part is helping to make a more caring, engaged and united world.
