They identified the basic needs for human life as nutritious food, uncontaminated water, sufficient shelter, basic health care, heating and energy, and sanitation. Although the physical needs are so strikingly evident, participating students discovered that poverty has an enormous emotional impact as well. They identified causes that contribute to poverty, including poor agricultural results, medical catastrophes, changes in family structures, geographic factors, and natural disasters.  Because these teams recognize that only a truly holistic approach will make an impact both locally and globally, they see that the main methods of addressing poverty over the next 20 years are through education and action steps that focus on sustainability. Keeping the issue of poverty a focal point of the middle school community will include providing ample information about the various dynamics of poverty.

The teams have developed a website that will be maintained in the future. It will inform other students how they can make a difference in their respective communities, nations, and in the world. On a local level, the teams will work to provide food, clothing, and toys for local, needy families. They hope to involve others within their local communities in the efforts to eradicate poverty.

The use of technology supported initial contact and early relationship-building for this two-school team. The schools will continue to use technology to track one another’s progress toward achieving the goals and to inspire each other with new ideas and stories of success.

Information about this team's collaboration on Challenge 20/20 and their projects:

• Website:  http://www.polytechnic.org/challenge2020/
• Statement from Deborah Reed, the Head of School at Polytechnic School, Pasadena, CA
• PowerPoint Presentation "Poverty Around the World and at Home"
• Slideshow on Poverty
  
  Contacts: 
  Polytechnic School:  Carmie Rodriguez, crodriguez@polytechnic.org
  Strathcona Tweedsmuir School:  Sarah Wiley, WileyS@sts.ab.ca