School Community Officer Constable Nate Worthington and 10 Manawatū officers are joining with Palmerston North Boy’s High School (PNBHS) students to raise awareness about men’s mental health.
At midnight tomorrow (Thursday 11 September), Fortress 40 will kick off – a 40-hour endurance challenge designed to push participants to their physical and mental limits.
They aim to raise awareness and raise funds for the Movember Foundation – a charity dedicated to tackling men's mental health issues.
The school invited Nate and his colleagues to participate alongside senior prefects, embarking on a challenging journey together and engaging in intense training activities.
Through this demanding experience, the officers and students aim to highlight the importance of mental resilience and wellbeing, especially among young men.
Nate says the Police team will host a two-hour slot this Friday at midday which will consist of 40 bodyweight exercises x 40 reps of each with a 40 second run.
“This is an awesome opportunity to support a great cause and have some really positive engagement within the school community,” says Nate.
“We will work as a team alongside the students matching them set for set, team members will take turns to complete one set before tagging the next person.
“While it’s a challenge, it’s not a race – it's more about working alongside these young men and showing support through fitness and mental resilience.”
Sport Manawatū will be supporting Police conducting the vertical jump test, grip strength test and push-ups for students wanting to test their ability.
PNBHS Leadership Director Anthony Lobb says that by coming together and pushing our limits, we can shed light on the challenges faced by men and encourage open discussions about mental health.
“Prominent on the PNBHS Fortress 40 crest is the castle from our school crest – the castle represents strength, physical strength, mental strength and strength of character,” says Anthony.
“Our strength comes from our dedication, our determination and the resilience we develop through our willingness to take on challenges and striving to do our best when faced with adversity.
“Another measure of strength is our willingness to ask for help and support from others when we need it - and that’s OK.
“Strength also comes from the way we look out for our brothers by offering help and support.”