Meadow Ridge Steps Up Anti-Bullying Message

What does BMX motor cross training and anti-bullying have in common? BMX Champion and youth motivational speaker Matt Wilhelm. Wilhelm visited the intermediate grade students at Meadow Ridge School recently to share his story of perseverance and hard work that helped him achieve his World Champion status.

Wilhelm started by sharing his experience as a grade school student who was the target of bullies. He still remembers those years but also remembers those who stood up for him, sending the message to Meadow Ridge students to think “How would you like to be remembered by your classmates?”

Intermixed in his powerful message were tricks and stunts Wilhelm demonstrated to the students, noting that some bike tricks had taken up to eight years of practice to perfect. His second student message: Don’t give up on your dreams and keep practicing!

A native of Oak Lawn, Matt Wilhelm’s talents and dedication has led to being a semi-finalist on “America’s Got Talent” and most recently filmed a documentary with President Obama as part of the “Stop Bullying; Speak Up” campaign that seeks to empower all kids to take part in the growing movement to help bring an end to bullying.