'Courage Wall' Coming to Arlington

The Courage Wall is coming to Arlington. Haven’t heard of it? It’s a giant chalkboard where residents fill in “I wish I had the courage to...”

The Wall concept got its start in Alexandria’s Del Ray neighborhood and was an instant hit with residents and even grabbed the attention from first lady Michelle Obama and “The Today Show.”

The Courage Wall makes its debut in Arlington Thursday. The 8x12 foot chalkboard with the words “I wish I had the courage to…” will be unveiled at Welburn Square, located across from the Ballston Metro Station.

Ballston residents and visitors are invited to use a piece of chalk from one of the buckets hanging on the Courage Wall to share their wishes and express their joys and fears on the blank lines.

The Courage Wall provides an opportunity for reflection as the community begins celebrating the Fourth of July. Prior to erasing the board when it becomes full, a picture will be taken and posted on a Facebook and Instagram page.

WHO:

· Alexandria native and leadership coach Nancy Belmont created the Courage Wall in May 2015 to create a conversation about fear and allow those passing by to reflect on what is holding them back from achieving their dreams

· Community Resources of America, a non-profit organization providing services to the community by persons with intellectual disabilities, will be monitoring the Wall to ensure all commentary remains appropriate

· Sponsored by the Ballston Business Improvement District (BID) and Piedmont Office Realty Trust

WHEN/WHERE: Thursday, July 2 at 4 p.m.

Ballston Mega Market

Welburn Square

The Courage Wall will be located in Ballston until July 31