PeppTalks with Jeanne Pepper Ep 228 Brayden Werschmidt Upstander Project

Brayden Werschmidt, a compassionate 13-year-old, celebrated his Bar Mitzvah with an inspiring Bar Mitzvah project that not only honored the memory of a my son, Blaze Bernstein but also took a firm stand against bullying. Brayden's story is one of proactive kindness and a desire to create a more inclusive world.

Touched by the life and tragic passing of Blaze, whom he knew from religious school at University Synagogue, Brayden dedicated his Bar Mitzvah project to the Blaze Bernstein Memorial Fund. With a creative and engaging approach, he raised $300 for the "Blaze It Forward" initiative by selling river rocks to children, which they then had the opportunity to paint. These colorful symbols of hope and community were later placed in the rock garden at Borrego Park in Foothill Ranch during a community cleanup event.

Brayden's commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond his successful fundraising efforts and from his own experiences with bullying in elementary school. Determined to prevent other children from enduring similar pain, he has developed a slideshow that educates his peers on the crucial distinction between being a bystander and an "upstander." His presentation emphasizes the importance of standing up for those who are being bullied, transforming a personal struggle into a powerful lesson for others.

Through his thoughtful actions and courageous voice, Brayden Werschmidt has not only honored the memory of Blaze Bernstein but has also emerged as an impressive young leader, demonstrating wisdom and empathy beyond his years. His efforts serve as a powerful reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of positive change within a community.

Brayden also demonstrated a profound understanding of community, empathy, and the importance of standing up for what is right. His work serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of "Blaze It Forward" and offers a hopeful example of youth leadership in action.

Episode 228

Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper

Guest: Brayden Werschmidt

Producer: Eli Moskowitz

Original Theme: Jay Bernstein

Special Thank You to our volunteers

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