kindness

A recent survey of 2,000 Americans reveals that 40% are increasing their charitable actions as 2024 draws to a close. Conducted by Talker Research and commissioned by Avocado Green Mattress, the poll indicates that 43% of respondents are seizing the year’s end to enhance their generosity through increased volunteering and donations. Younger generations, specifically 59% of Gen Z and millennials, reported a greater commitment to doing good compared to 37% of Gen X and baby boomers. Among the latter group, 47% felt they had contributed sufficiently to their communities this year. Notably, 19% of younger respondents awarded themselves an “A” for their charitable efforts in 2024, while only 10% of older participants did the same. The survey also identified barriers to giving, with 45% citing financial limitations, 34% health issues, and 25% time constraints. Participants shared that even small gestures, such as checking in on a colleague or helping someone solve a problem, can significantly impact others’ lives. Julie Murphy, a director at Avocado Green Mattress, emphasized that “even a small deed can have such an incredible ripple effect,” highlighting the importance of reminding people of their capacity to contribute. Looking ahead to the end of the year, respondents plan to dedicate an average of eight hours per week to charitable activities, with 44% intending to participate in Giving Tuesday. Motivations for giving back include the satisfaction derived from helping others (47%), a sense of purpose (43%), and the desire to improve the world (40%). Additionally, 38% believe that the holiday season makes it easier to engage in charitable acts. WHAT MOTIVATES RESPONDENTS TO GIVE BACK TO THEIR COMMUNITY? ● Satisfaction of giving — 47%● A sense of purpose — 43%● Wanting to make the world a better place — 40%● Emotional well-being — 33%● Community connection — 23%● Showing my children how to support their community — 19%● A concern for responsible, ethical practices in my community — 18%● Physical health benefits — 12%● Skill development — 8%● Networking opportunities — 7% Hoping the holidays inspire you to be more generous and kind… While there abounds a plethora of reasons to always extend kindness, it is safe to say Kindness should be allowed to freely flow without strings of hidden agenda or motives. Embrace the challenge of kindness; strive to be the parent, partner, sibling, friend, and acquaintance that you wish to see in others.

A coffee shop in Middleborough, Massachusetts, has taken a unique approach to attract customers, and it’s capturing hearts and views online. Coffee Milano Cafe recently displayed a sign at its entrance that read, “Walk in and give us your BEST dance moves for 5 seconds,” inviting patrons to showcase their dance skills in exchange for free coffee. Inspired by a similar promotion from a pizza shop, the café’s initiative was initially intended as a fun way to enhance the customer experience and highlight their cozy atmosphere. However, they never anticipated the overwhelming response it would receive. The online video showcasing customers dancing has amassed an astonishing 7.6 million views, turning the café into a viral sensation. Olivia Svenson, a barista and social media director at Coffee Milano Cafe, shared her surprise with ABC News: “We just thought it was going to be a small thing for the people that come in every day.” She emphasized the joy of seeing people express themselves through dance, stating, “Everybody likes to see people happy.” The café’s owner, Josh Rashid, also reflected on the positive impact of the event. He noted that sometimes life can be challenging, but moments like these—where laughter and joy are shared—can make all the difference. “Life isn’t always easy… sometimes, you encounter something that brings the biggest smile to your face,” he said. Given the success of this event, Coffee Milano Cafe is already planning another dance-themed promotion for Black Friday. Ideas are being brainstormed, including a potential “dance with your dog” event. The café’s social media accounts have hinted at more fun gatherings in the future, encouraging everyone to keep dancing because “life’s short.” This delightful initiative brought smiles to many faces and also fostered a sense of community and connection among customers. So if you’re in the area, don’t forget to bring your best moves and enjoy some free coffee!

In India, two police officers have successfully reunited 104 missing children with their families within a span of just nine months, according to the Times of India. Head constables Seema Devi and Suman Hooda, part of the Delhi Police’s Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU), have received significant recognition for their efforts in this initiative known as Operation Milap. Hooda shared with the Times, “We don’t have fixed duty hours. Whenever we receive information about missing kids, we just leave our homes,” adding with a smile, “There are days when I don’t see my kids.” Their extensive work has taken them across northern states such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana, where they faced numerous challenges including poor-quality photographs, uncooperative locals, unfamiliar territories, and language barriers. Operation Milap commenced in March when Hooda joined the AHTU and continued through November. The officers often dealt with cases where children had been missing for years, relying on outdated images as their primary leads. This necessitated door-to-door searches with assistance from local residents, including some who were homeless. In other instances, they utilized cyber resources to track mobile phone locations and traversed long distances in rural areas where transportation was scarce. Hooda noted that while many locals were eager to help, some feared that aiding the police could lead to legal complications. Throughout their operation, the majority of cases involved children who had gone missing due to elopement, drug addiction, or inadequate parental supervision. Delhi Police Director General Nidhin Valsan praised the remarkable achievements of Seema and Suman in Operation Milap, emphasizing their commitment to combating child trafficking and protecting communities.

A 12-year-old schoolgirl, Lily-Rae, who is gradually losing her sight, was overwhelmed when actress Kate Winslet stepped in to help her achieve her “visual bucket list.” The star of Titanic contributed $5,000 for Lily-Rae to experience the Northern Lights and also invited her and her mother for a theater night in London. Lily-Rae, from Nottingham, England, was diagnosed with Stargardt disease last December, a genetic condition that leads to central vision blurriness. Her mother, Emma, initiated a GoFundMe campaign to fund various visual experiences for her daughter before her condition worsened. Moved by Lily-Rae’s courageous journey, Winslet reached out personally to offer her support. The two traveled to London, where they met Winslet before attending a performance of My Neighbour Totoro at the Barbican Theatre. Emma described the encounter as feeling like they had known each other forever, praising Winslet’s warmth and humility. Additionally, Winslet arranged for Lily-Rae to fulfill another item on her list: feeding tigers at Knowsley Safari Park in Prescot. Emma expressed immense gratitude for Winslet’s contributions and efforts to raise awareness about Lily’s condition. To express her thanks, Lily-Rae created a Braille card for Winslet and her family. The GoFundMe campaign successfully raised over £10,000 for various activities on Lily-Rae’s visual bucket list, which includes dreams of visiting iconic sites such as the Eiffel Tower and Pompeii. Lily-Rae’s eyesight issues began at age five, leading to difficulties in reading at school. Stargardt disease affects approximately one in 10,000 individuals and primarily causes central vision blurriness; however, there is hope that she may retain some peripheral vision. Currently, she can see only up to six feet away and requires a font size of 64 on her laptop. Despite these challenges, Lily-Rae maintains an optimistic outlook.

The ripple effect of kindness is truly profound and often difficult to fully articulate. In just one-week, numerous reports have emerged highlighting remarkable acts of kindness in the Middle Belt region of Nigeria. One notable instance involves a young woman who faced discrimination due to her appearance and was unjustly denied a job despite meeting all the qualifications. Msendoo Ageva took to social media to share her experience of rejection and the challenges she faced during her interview. Her story resonated with many, garnering widespread sympathy. In a heartwarming turn of events, Haakyav Tombu Peter, a distinguished son of Benue, was moved by her plight and offered her immediate employment at his company, Harrypee Logistics. Indeed, times are tough and life can seem unfair, but we all have the capacity to make a difference. Let us prioritize our shared humanity over personal ambitions. Let’s continue to practice kindness and express gratitude for every act of generosity we receive, as kindness begets kindness.

Adoo Eugenia Ter, a prominent entrepreneur from Benue State, has recently garnered significant attention for her remarkable impact and generosity within her community. Her lifestyle exemplifies the difference that one individual can make when they choose to share their blessings with others. While many may find success and wealth, Eugenia stands out for her strong commitment to philanthropy, embodying the essence of kindness and community spirit. The genesis of Eugenia’s philanthropic journey began as a humble birthday giveaway in honor of her mother. What started as a personal celebration quickly evolved into a series of outreach initiatives that have touched countless lives. Her endeavors include providing data subscriptions for hundreds of individuals, covering school fees for students in need, offsetting medical expenses, and offering substantial discounts on rice—an essential commodity for many families in the region where economic realities seem to be biting hard. This transformation from a single act of kindness into a broader movement highlights how small gestures can catalyze significant change within a community. Eugenia’s actions have not only provided immediate relief but have also fostered a sense of hope among those who have benefited from her generosity. The month of November has proven to be particularly transformative for many individuals who received support from her initiatives. The gratitude expressed by beneficiaries reflects the tangible impact of her contributions, illustrating how acts of kindness can create ripples that extend far beyond the initial gesture. In response to the overwhelming appreciation she has received, Eugenia remains humble, attributing her actions to a sense of duty rather than seeking recognition. She emphasizes that her efforts are merely what every human should aspire to do—help others in need. This perspective underscores a powerful message about the importance of community involvement and the responsibility that comes with privilege. Eugenia’s modus operandi is an inspiring one, and a good example for other entrepreneurs and individuals in positions of influence. Her ability to leverage her resources for the betterment of her community demonstrates that success is not solely measured by personal achievements but also by the positive impact one can have on others. As more people take notice of her initiatives, there is potential for a broader movement toward philanthropy and social responsibility within the entrepreneurial landscape in Benue and Nigeria at large. It is worthy of note that Adoo Eugenia’s story is not just about personal success; it is about the transformative power of generosity and the positive effects it can have on individuals and communities alike. Her commitment to uplifting those around her serves as a reminder that kindness is an invaluable currency that enriches both giver and receiver.

A touching tale of love and sacrifice emerges from Texas, highlighting the bond between a father and son, as well as a man’s decision to relinquish his dream car for the sake of fatherhood. On Earl Guyness’s 65th birthday, he found himself at a car dealership where a magician was performing. To his astonishment, his son Jared presented him with the keys to a 1967 Chevrolet Camaro parked nearby—a car Earl had sold 40 years prior to cover diaper expenses for his newborn son. Earl, then a 22-year-old working in the automotive industry, had been captivated by the Camaro when an employee brought it into the shop. He described it as a loud and attention-grabbing vehicle that turned heads as it cruised down the street. However, after marrying his wife Mona and welcoming their son Jared, Earl made the responsible choice to sell the car for family needs. He often joked with Jared about this sacrifice, saying, “I let it go for diaper money.” Jared grew up hearing these stories and developed a fascination for the Camaro. He meticulously learned about its specifications: a Marina blue SS model equipped with a 350 small-block V8 engine, automatic transmission, and distinctive features like Crager chrome wheels and a cowl hood. Over time, Jared dreamed of bringing that car back into their lives. In 2021, after a successful business year, Jared decided to pursue this dream instead of opting for more practical financial decisions. He located a Camaro identical to his father’s old one and began restoring it in secret over three years. On Earl’s birthday, Jared orchestrated an elaborate surprise involving a magician who led Earl through a series of tricks that culminated in revealing the restored Camaro. Initially thinking it was part of the act, Earl was overwhelmed with emotion when Jared handed him the keys and thanked him for the “diaper money.” The moment brought Earl to tears as he embraced his son, expressing gratitude and love. Earl remarked on how surprised he was by the gift, stating he thought it was “the greatest magic trick” he had ever seen. Looking back, he affirmed that he would make the same choice to sell the Camaro again if it meant supporting his family. Meanwhile, Jared’s heartfelt gesture aimed to show his father how much he appreciated his sacrifices and to remind him that those sacrifices were not forgotten.

A United Airlines pilot has gained widespread attention on social media after personally overseeing the order and distribution of 30 pizzas to 155 passengers on his flight. Dubbed the “Pizza Pilot,” Scott Wardle, who has three decades of experience flying for the Air Force and as a civilian, empathized with the passengers’ plight, stating he felt compelled to show that “we care.” The incident unfolded when Wardle, based in Boise, was en route to Phoenix with a stop in Houston. Approximately 45 minutes into the flight, he was alerted by the crew that a passenger had lost consciousness. Despite having two nurses and a medic aboard, Wardle opted for an emergency landing in Albuquerque at 11 p.m., just as the airport’s food court was closing. After confirming that his cabin crew had exceeded their working hours and would need to be replaced, Wardle sought a way to support his stranded passengers. He decided on pizza, reasoning it was a universally liked option. “I started exploring some options at that point for what I want to do. I came up with the idea of doing pizza for everyone,” he explained. Wardle expressed that his primary concern during this episode was compassion for his passengers. He promptly ordered dozens of pizzas and began serving them with plates and napkins. The heartwarming scene quickly went viral, with photos and videos capturing him in his pilot uniform handing out slices. Despite the attention, Wardle remained humble, noting that many pilots engage in similar gestures of kindness. United Airlines recognized his actions and offered to reimburse him for the pizzas while celebrating him as a hero of the skies. He made sure every passenger received their slice before enjoying a pizza himself.

Cale Wrenn faced challenges during his initial days at Reidsville High School in North Carolina, struggling to forge friendships and dealing with bullying due to his height. The 14-year-old freshman confided in his older sister, Leah Edwards, expressing his distress over having to eat lunch alone because some classmates labeled him a “loser.” Heartbroken by her brother’s situation, Leah shared screenshots of their conversation on Twitter, appealing for supportive messages for Cale. The response was overwhelming; not only did Cale receive encouragement from numerous social media users, but Leah’s post also caught the attention of several seniors at the school. Among them was Demontez Canada, a member of both the football and basketball teams, who stated, “We decided to catch Cale off guard at lunch and have lunch with him and show him around the school and make sure he was OK and give him new friends.” In a heartwarming turn of events, Demontez and other members of the basketball team, along with the Boys to Men Club, joined Cale for lunch, offering him friendship and support. Cale sure radiated astonishment at their kindness and gratitude for their intervention, stating, “It felt really nice to know that there are people who care.” He now hopes that sharing his experience will inspire other bullied students to remain hopeful and recognize that circumstances can improve.

When the Whirlpool laundry brand heard about this hidden problem of chronic absenteeism o students due to laundry problems, it decided to break down this barrier to attendance by providing schools access to clean clothes—and it’s actually working. Embarking on its fifth year, the Care Counts laundry program has grown to support students in need across 18 U.S. cities, providing laundry machines for more than 38,000 students in 82 schools around the country. “New data this year continues to show the program has contributed to decreases in chronic absenteeism,” said Chelsey Whitehead, senior brand manager for Whirlpool. “And we are just getting started.” This year, for the first time, Care Counts is inviting schools that serve low-income families nationwide to apply for a laundry pair to bring this program to even more students. “We hope to make even more progress by expanding the program well beyond the footprint of our pilot program.” In analyzing the most recent data from the school, Whirlpool found more promising results: “We know every day counts. Getting students back in the classroom can make the difference between staying on course with their academic performance, or falling behind in a significant way,” said Dr. Richard Rende, a developmental psychologist, researcher and educator. “Since its inception, the program has contributed to decreases in chronic absenteeism and increases in grades and levels of self-esteem in at-risk students. The data indicates substantial promise for the program and at-risk students nationwide.” With research over the years showing the program has the greatest impact on high-risk elementary school students, the nationwide expansion will focus on qualified Title I elementary schools. Whirlpool is partnering with CSC Serviceworks, an industry leader in installation and service, to help more schools combat the laundry crisis. “This program is such an easy way to help solve a very difficult problem in our schools,” said Jo Carrigan, principal of Doull Elementary. “We’ve been lucky enough to be a part of the program to see the results firsthand, and I’m so happy that the program is opening applications because there are countless schools not just here in Denver—but all over the country that will benefit. Our new washer and dryer are an amazing resource for our students.” With the help of Dr. Rende, Whirlpool collects and analyzes anonymized laundry and school attendance data to prove that access to clean clothes improves attendance and more. At every point in time, we can always leverage kindness to improve on situations and get things done properly.