2019 STATISTICS
Driven by our dedicated, worldwide community of volunteers, countless students across the U.S. and more than 30 nations were able to take part in the 2018-19 Destination Imagination Challenge Experience.
47 U.S. STATES
A total of 23 employees were involved.
31 nations
A total of 35,000 individuals volunteered their time.
14,062 Teams
Over 77,000 Participants
Team Counts by Country for the 2018-2019 Period
TEAM OBSTACLES
Every season, DI teams can choose to tackle one of the seven available Team Challenges. These Team Challenges are crafted by diverse panels of specialists, including educators, engineers, and artists. Fresh Challenges are introduced each season.
Overcoming the Technical Obstacle
Teams were assigned to create and construct an aircraft capable of taking off, flying, and landing successfully. Additionally, they needed to design the aircraft to transport a payload developed by their team.
Scientific Endeavor
Teams were required to investigate the human body and various health disorders, then develop and deliver a narrative centered on a medical enigma impacting a person. Additionally, teams needed to engineer and construct a device employing Technical Methods to demonstrate the medical mystery along with at least one associated symptom.
Creative Arts Showdown
Teams developed a unique narrative based on an actual game and incorporated a custom-made game gizmo, which utilized Technical Methods to trigger an action or event during their Presentation.
Creative Spontaneity Test
During their DI competition, teams devised an impromptu performance featuring historical characters in their narratives. They were required to deliver the skit in two segments, shifting from comedic to tragic tones, and to perform it in dual formats, transitioning from spoken to silent expression.
Design Challenge in Engineering
Teams were assigned to design and construct a structure capable of bearing weight without collapsing. Additionally, they developed and delivered a unique narrative featuring a special effect produced by the team.
Service Learning Initiative
Teams tackled an actual need in the community and showcased their project’s influence by crafting an original narrative centered on characters trying to break free.
Early Learning Initiative
The younger groups (preschool to 2nd grade) developed and performed a unique play blending fictional and nonfictional aspects. Additionally, they constructed and incorporated a technical gadget along with an interactive, full-scale pop-up book to enhance their storytelling.
WORLDWIDE CHAMPIONSHIPS
Over 17,000 students, parents, and volunteers came together in Kansas City, Missouri, for Global Finals—the planet’s biggest event honoring creativity.
Global Finals Marks Two Decades and Relocates to a Fresh Venue
Following almost two decades of holding Global Finals in Knoxville, Tennessee, Destination Imagination relocated its worldwide competition to Kansas City, Missouri. This shift enabled the organization to more effectively serve its 17,000 participants from over 15 countries, introduce an enhanced prop room feature for teams to develop and showcase their Challenge solutions, and consolidate all Challenge Presentations in a single venue.
At Global Finals 2019, Destination Imagination honored bestselling author, actor, singer, and DI graduate Chris Colfer by presenting him with the inaugural . This recognition is awarded to a former DI participant who has revolutionized their field and motivates today’s DI members to pursue their limitless potential.
Teams Present Innovative Solutions in Enhanced Prop Storage Experience
At Global Finals 2019, each team received dedicated booth space within our new venue at the Kansas City Convention Center, covering an area close to eight football fields in size. The setup featured multiple prop garages where teams could refine their solutions, showcase their projects, and connect with fellow participants from across the globe.
OUR SUPPORTERS
Thanks to the support of our sponsors, we can continue our mission of equipping students with vital skills like creative and critical thinking, complex problem-solving, and decision-making—abilities that are crucial for their success in future careers and life.
DI Creates Financial Support Fund for Teams
In 2019, Destination Imagination established the Global Finals Financial Assistance Fund to support teams that earned a spot at Global Finals 2019 but needed financial aid to participate. With contributions from sponsors and private donors, Destination Imagination distributed $131,350 in aid to 301 of its teams.
Motorola’s Grant Supports DI in Broadening Initiatives for Underprivileged Areas
With the support of a $50,000 grant from Motorola Solutions Foundation, Destination Imagination strengthened its efforts to promote STEAM and 21st-century skills among students in underserved U.S. communities. This funding enabled the organization to supply Challenge materials, offer teacher stipends, and cover transportation costs for 46 DI teams across Title I schools and partner organizations, including Boys and Girls Clubs and the YMCA of Metro Chicago.
WE APPRECIATE OUR DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS
The efforts of our organization would not be possible without the dedication of our global network of almost 40,000 volunteers. We extend our deepest gratitude to each volunteer for their steadfast commitment and tireless contributions, which bring Destination Imagination to life for students everywhere.
View our annual Financial Statements by clicking here.
