Sunday, August 2, 2026
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What’s Working

For readers looking for what’s still working in the world

HopeResilienceGratitudeConnectionCourageKindnessCreativityGrowth

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Connection

The quiet, durable work of belonging to one another.

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ConnectionUpworthy

‘Old Ladies’ are free-diving on Cape Cod. They’ve excavated 6,000 pounds of trash.

In a world often dominated by narratives of decline, the 'Old Ladies Against Underwater Garbage' (OLAUG) on Cape Cod provide a refreshing counterpoint. These women, all over 64, have taken to free-diving in local ponds to clear out submerged trash, extracting an impressive 6,000 pounds since their inception in 2017. Their efforts go beyond environmental cleanup; they offer a sense of purpose and community to women often overlooked by society. As Susan Baur, the 85-year-old founder, puts it, these activities are not just about removing waste but about reviving vitality and connection among the participants.

  • Perseverance
  • Gratitude
  • Courage
YouTube
ConnectionUpworthy

‘Love on the Spectrum’ star reveals secret benefit of her neurodivergence: Autistic joy

Kaelynn Partlow, a star from Netflix's 'Love on the Spectrum,' has brought to light a lesser-known aspect of living with autism: the phenomenon of 'autistic joy.' While autism is often discussed in terms of its challenges, Partlow and others in the autistic community are highlighting the intense, full-body happiness that can accompany their neurodivergence. This joy, which can be triggered by special interests or sensory experiences, is described as all-consuming and deeply fulfilling, offering a counter-narrative to the predominantly challenge-focused discourse around autism.

  • Gratitude
  • Hope
  • Courage
Instagram
ConnectionUpworthy

Autistic 16-year-old and his dad perform a gorgeous cover of Dan Fogelberg’s ‘Longer’

In a heartwarming display of talent and connection, 16-year-old Jack, who has level 2 autism, and his father Eric have captivated audiences with their renditions of classic songs, most notably Dan Fogelberg's 'Longer'. This father-son duo has not only shared their musical gifts through social media but also offered a glimpse into the harmonious blend of Jack's passions for singing and LEGO building. Each performance showcases Jack's impressive vocal abilities and his unique way of engaging with music, as he meticulously constructs LEGO sets while singing.

  • Love
  • Hope
  • Perseverance
TikTok
ConnectionUpworthy

Cheesecake Factory broke every rule with its massive 21-page menu. Here’s why it works.

The Cheesecake Factory's sprawling 21-page menu defies conventional wisdom in the restaurant industry, where simplicity and specialization are often prioritized. Instead, the restaurant's strategy is a masterclass in organization and logistics. Each of the over 250 menu items is prepared fresh daily, with intricate systems in place to manage the complexity. This includes multiple walk-in refrigerators, precise timing algorithms, and a detailed kitchen architecture with micro-stations dedicated to different types of dishes. The result is a dining experience that caters to a wide range of tastes, ensuring that everyone finds something they love.

  • Curiosity
  • Perseverance
  • Courage
Facebook
ConnectionUpworthy

Professor shares why the key to improving your luck is having ‘more collisions’

Professor Sean Johnson's insights into the dynamics of luck, as inspired by James Austin's work, offer a compelling narrative: luck is not merely a fortuitous happenstance but a phenomenon that can be cultivated through intentional action. By embracing the 'Kettering Principle'—the idea that 'chance favors those in motion'—Johnson emphasizes the transformative power of increasing our interactions and engagements with the world. His advice to 'collide' more with new people, ideas, and experiences underscores a proactive approach to life, suggesting that by stepping outside our comfort zones, we enhance our likelihood of encountering serendipitous opportunities.

  • Curiosity
  • Courage
  • Hope
YouTube
ConnectionUpworthy

Lonely North Carolina 4-year-old brings neighborhood of strangers together with his friendly wave

In the face of loneliness following his parents' divorce, four-year-old Roman Butzlaff from North Carolina took a simple yet profound step to change his world: he waved hello to passing neighbors. This small gesture of friendliness rippled through his community, transforming a collection of disconnected individuals into an interconnected support system. Roman's friendly waves gradually drew in neighbors, particularly senior citizens, who began to form bonds not only with him but with each other, turning Roman's neighborhood into a vibrant, supportive community.

  • Kindness
  • Hope
  • Courage
TikTok
ConnectionUpworthy

Gen Z women are co-buying homes with friends. Here’s their ‘dream house’ wish list.

In a striking shift from traditional homeownership, young Gen Z women are increasingly co-buying homes with friends, embracing a model of 'chosen family' that prioritizes financial pragmatism and deep interpersonal bonds. This trend emerges as a savvy response to soaring mortgage rates and stagnant wages, allowing young people to pool resources and achieve homeownership earlier than they might alone. Notably, this movement is not merely about financial gain; it is deeply rooted in the desire for community, with nearly half of surveyed women expressing that co-owning would enhance their happiness and sense of belonging.

  • Hope
  • Courage
  • Love
YouTube
ConnectionGood News Network

Dad Turned Weekly Library Trips with His Daughter into Beloved Community Event: Meet ‘Library Dads’

In the heart of Atlanta, Khari Arnold has transformed a simple father-daughter library outing into a flourishing community event known as 'Library Dads'. What began as a personal bonding experience with his daughter, Ariah, has blossomed into a beacon of fatherhood and literacy. By inviting other fathers to join him, Arnold has created a supportive network that not only strengthens paternal bonds but also fosters early childhood literacy in an engaging and social environment.

  • Kindness
  • Love
  • Hope
Instagram
ConnectionReasons to be Cheerful

What We’re Reading: Helping Older Americans ‘Age in Community’

As America's population ages, the concept of 'aging in community' is gaining traction over traditional 'aging in place' strategies. The approach emphasizes a broader social net, where older adults are supported by services like medical transportation, meal delivery, and community engagement activities. This model aims to preserve dignity and independence by fostering a sense of belonging and purpose within familiar surroundings, as exemplified by a couple in a walk-up building who thrived due to their supportive neighbors.

  • Kindness
  • Hope
  • Perspective
Instagram
ConnectionUpworthy

Woman pulls up and invites strangers to do yoga on the spot. They get a mat and so much more.

In a world where yoga is often perceived as a privilege reserved for those who can afford upscale studios, Blu Inoarg is redefining accessibility by bringing yoga directly to underserved communities in Cincinnati, Ohio. Her initiative, 'Pull Up N Yoga,' involves driving around neighborhoods, offering free yoga sessions to groups of people she encounters. Armed with yoga mats and an infectious spirit, Blu invites these groups, often teenagers or young adults, to experience yoga right on the sidewalks, breaking down barriers and preconceived notions about who yoga is for.

  • Kindness
  • Courage
  • Hope
YouTube
ConnectionUpworthy

‘The Princess Diaries’ turns 25. It wouldn’t exist without Whitney Houston.

As 'The Princess Diaries' celebrates its 25th anniversary, it's a moment to recognize the pivotal role Whitney Houston played in bringing this beloved film to life. Often remembered for her extraordinary musical talent, Houston's influence extended into film production through her company, Brownhouse Productions. Her vision was to create 'good films, quality films, for young people,' a mission she fulfilled with 'The Princess Diaries,' which has charmed a generation with its modern fairy tale narrative.

  • Hope
  • Courage
  • Kindness
Instagram
ConnectionUpworthy

Tara Lipinski shares her ‘paranoid’ moments on ‘Traitors’ and spills on the cast group chat

In her candid reflection on participating in the reality TV show 'Traitors,' Tara Lipinski opens up about the intense psychological journey she experienced alongside her lifelong friend Johnny Weir. The duo faced the challenge head-on, navigating the unpredictable nature of the game with a strategy rooted in loyalty. Despite the show's psychological toll, Lipinski describes the experience as both 'traumatizing' and 'amazing,' highlighting the deepened bonds formed with fellow cast members and the enduring friendship with Weir.

  • Courage
  • Love
  • Kindness
TikTok
ConnectionUpworthy

Art historian explains why truly ‘reading’ Mark Rothko’s abstract paintings makes people cry

Mark Rothko's abstract paintings, often dismissed by skeptics as simple colored rectangles, have a profound emotional impact on viewers who engage with them deeply. Art historian Tatyana Kalaydjian Serraino explains that Rothko's work, which relies on painstaking layering techniques to achieve its depth and luminosity, invites viewers to experience a spectrum of human emotions. By encouraging viewers to stand close and spend time with the paintings, Serraino reveals how Rothko's intent was to create a mirror for the viewer's emotions, leading to moments of profound personal reflection and sometimes tears.

  • Curiosity
  • Perspective
  • Gratitude
TikTok
ConnectionUpworthy

Two behaviors make people more likable. Just be sure to use them at the right time.

The article explores the dual nature of social interactions by highlighting two key behaviors—communal and agentic—that influence how we connect with others. Communal behaviors, characterized by warmth, empathy, and active listening, are essential for creating genuine connections and fostering trust. These behaviors enable individuals to make others feel seen and heard, thereby increasing likeability and building deeper relationships. On the other hand, agentic behaviors, which include assertiveness and confidence, are effective for leading and initiating actions but may not always foster personal connections.

  • Curiosity
  • Kindness
  • Perspective
Instagram
ConnectionNice News

He Drove Cross-Country in a “Giant Purple Van” to Interview Inspiring Americans: Watch Footage From the Project

Scott Shigeoka embarked on a cross-country journey in his 'Curiosity Mobile,' a vibrant purple van, to counter the pervasive pessimism he felt about the state of the United States. His mission was to connect with ordinary Americans making extraordinary contributions to their communities, thereby addressing the 'belief gap'—the dissonance between Americans' desires for a cohesive democracy and their skepticism about its feasibility. Among the many stories he encountered was that of Canopy, a refugee resettlement organization in Northwest Arkansas, which extends a 'Long Welcome' to refugees, fostering deep community integration over five years rather than the typical six months.

  • Curiosity
  • Hope
  • Kindness
TikTok
ConnectionUpworthy

Dallas IMAX projectionist explains what makes the 70mm ‘Odyssey’ is so special. People are riveted.

In an era where digital reigns supreme, Brandon Valdez's enthusiastic explanation of the 70mm IMAX format offers a refreshing analog detour, captivating audiences with the tangible magic of film. His pre-movie talks at the Dallas Cinemark have become a viral sensation, drawing nearly 30 million views on TikTok. Valdez's passion is palpable as he details the weighty, 800-pound reels and the immersive auditory experience that analog technology uniquely provides. His presentations do more than inform; they engage and inspire, demonstrating the power of genuine enthusiasm to enhance an audience's experience.

  • Curiosity
  • Love
  • Perspective
YouTube
ConnectionUpworthy

Northern Virginia homeowners are hiring a flock of sheep instead of a lawn service

In an innovative twist on lawn care, Northern Virginia residents have turned to a flock of Babydoll Southdown sheep to manage their yards, replacing traditional lawn services. This approach, spearheaded by Cory Suter of Lamb Mowers, not only handles invasive plants like poison ivy and kudzu but also enriches the soil naturally with the sheep's droppings. The small, friendly sheep provide both a practical service and an unexpected source of joy, as families and communities gather to watch them work.

  • Curiosity
  • Hope
  • Kindness
Instagram
ConnectionUpworthy

11-year-old boy shows his American pride by crocheting 8-foot flag using 60 skeins of yarn

In a heartening display of youthful creativity and patriotism, 11-year-old Greyson Moore has crafted an 8-foot American flag through the art of crochet, using 60 skeins of yarn. This impressive feat, completed in less than two weeks, was inspired by the United States' 250th anniversary and Greyson's desire to contribute something meaningful to his family's celebrations. Learning the craft from YouTube tutorials, Greyson's project evolved not only as a personal achievement but as a bridge of unity, capturing the admiration of thousands who followed his journey online.

  • Courage
  • Perseverance
  • Hope
TikTok
ConnectionUpworthy

His wife went into a coma after childbirth. He made sure she’d be the first to hold their son.

In a story that intertwines vulnerability, determination, and deep love, Ben Rosenberger's actions during an unimaginable crisis reveal the profound strength inherent in human connections. After his wife Casey went into a coma following childbirth due to peripartum cardiomyopathy, Ben was left to navigate the early days of fatherhood alone. Yet, in his commitment to ensure Casey's envisioned moments of motherhood were preserved, he orchestrated a poignant act of love: ensuring that she would be the first to hold their son, Archer, upon waking. This decision, filled with foresight and compassion, provided a narrative of resilience and hope amidst uncertainty.

  • Love
  • Hope
  • Courage
Instagram
ConnectionUpworthy

An old woman and a young man improvised a dance together. It’s pure, tender intimacy.

In a heartwarming dance captured on video, choreographer Damian Malvacio and an elderly woman share an improvised moment of connection that transcends age and words. As they move to a haunting piano solo, their dance becomes a silent dialogue, a testament to the power of physical expression to convey intimacy and understanding. The video, shared widely on social media, invites viewers to interpret their own stories into the dance, highlighting the universal language of movement.

  • Gratitude
  • Kindness
  • Hope
Instagram
ConnectionNice News

Why Gen Z Is Falling in Love With Film Photography

In a digital age dominated by pixels and screens, Gen Z's embrace of film photography is a refreshing divergence, one that speaks to a deeper yearning for connection and authenticity. This revival is not simply a nostalgic nod to the past but a conscious rejection of the algorithm-driven, often isolating experiences of social media. As digital fatigue sets in, these young photographers are rediscovering the tactile joy of analog processes, creating physical artifacts that foster genuine social interactions and personal reflection.

  • Curiosity
  • Hope
  • Perspective
TikTok
ConnectionUpworthy

40 years ago, a Black woman’s parents named her Christopher Stewart. Her stories are wild.

Christopher Stewart's story is a testament to the creative resilience of parents navigating a world rife with bias. By naming their daughter with a traditionally white, male name, Stewart's parents ingeniously attempted to circumvent the systemic obstacles that often hinder Black women in professional spaces. Their plan was not without risks, yet Stewart's experience underscores their foresight and her own remarkable adaptability. Her name, far from being a burden, has become a tool that opens doors, turning initial surprise into opportunities for genuine engagement.

  • Courage
  • Hope
  • Perseverance
TikTok
ConnectionUpworthy

An atheist poet wrote about her Muslim husband’s faith. It’s bringing people to tears.

In a world often divided by ideological lines, G. Zeeshan’s poetic exploration of her interfaith marriage offers a poignant reminder that love can transcend belief systems. Her poem, 'The Man Who Speaks to God for Me,' reflects on her admiration for her Muslim husband's faith, despite her own atheism. Through her words, she navigates the complexities of loving someone whose spiritual practices she does not share, yet deeply respects. The verse captures her longing and acceptance of her husband's devotion, suggesting that love itself can be a form of faith.

  • Love
  • Curiosity
  • Perspective
Instagram
ConnectionInstagram

Anthony Bourdain: Move. Eat their food. Walk in their shoes.

Anthony Bourdain, with his signature blend of warmth and wisdom, reminds us that the world is both vast and accessible, urging us to traverse it with curiosity and openness. His philosophy champions the idea that empathy and understanding are cultivated not through distant observation but through genuine interaction and shared experiences. Bourdain's emphasis on food as a universal language illustrates how a simple act of breaking bread with others can dissolve cultural barriers and foster deep connections.

  • Curiosity
  • Courage
  • Perspective

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HopeResilienceGratitudeCourageKindnessCreativityGrowth