You’ve seen the YouTube videos on Facebook. It seems like everyone from Kelly Clarkson to grandmas are pouring buckets of ice water over their heads. The ALS Association has made charity viral in a campaign that’s brought awareness and controversy.

The challenge started on July 29 as a way to raise money to find a cure for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The illness, which is also known as the  “Lou Gehrig’s Disease,” kills motor neurons until the patient loses control of their muscles. ALS is fatal, and there is no cure. According to the ALS Association, people have donated $41.8 million for the Ice Bucket Challenge as of August 21. Last year, without the challenge, the organization raised $2.1 million.

While many applaud the fundraising technique, it has also drawn criticism. Some religious groups have pointed out that the ALS Association uses embryonic stem cells in their research testing. Others, including Pamela Anderson, have taken a stance against the organization because of their use of animal testing. In California, where there are significant droughts, the challenge goes against the conservation practices government officials are promoting. Some Californians have been pouring dirt instead of water and have taken to Twitter using the #droughtshaming hashtag. Despite the arguments against the ALS Association,  the Ice Bucket Challenge has succeeded in raising awareness for the disease.

Quinnipiac students didn’t miss out on the trend over the summer. Q30 Entertainment wants to see who has the best Ice Bucket Challenge video. The winner will have their video featured in two Q30 Television shows, #THAT and The Morning After. To enter, comment with your name, year, and the link to your video. Visit the link below to add your name to the poll and vote. Voting ends Saturday, August 30 at noon.

http://www.poll-maker.com/poll133278xa4304aB8-5