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Kindness

Everyday generosity that compounds.

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KindnessUpworthy

Utah police officers respond to an assault call with a sensory bag. The result speaks volumes.

The story from Salt Lake City, Utah, provides a compelling demonstration of how specialized training can transform potentially volatile situations into moments of understanding and safety. Faced with what initially appeared to be an assault, police officers quickly recognized an autistic child in crisis. Thanks to their Sensory Inclusive® training and the use of sensory bags, officers were able to de-escalate the situation without resorting to force. This approach not only ensured the safety of the child and his caregiver but also highlighted the importance of empathy and adaptability in law enforcement.

  • Perspective
  • Kindness
  • Courage
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KindnessUpworthy

Kid with cancer bullied for police uniform gets his teen bullies to apologize

In an era where bullying is often met with outrage and punitive measures, the story of Devarjaye 'DJ' Daniel, a young boy with terminal cancer, offers a refreshing perspective on the power of empathy and education. Mocked by teenagers for wearing a police uniform, DJ's response was neither one of anger nor retaliation. Instead, DJ and his father, Theodis, chose to educate the bullies, sharing DJ's story and the struggles he has faced due to his illness. This approach not only led the teenagers to apologize but also transformed a moment of ridicule into one of respect and learning.

  • Courage
  • Kindness
  • Perspective
TikTok
KindnessGood News Network

Woman’s Viral Video Raises More Than $174K for Disabled Veteran She Spotted Working at Airport

In an era marked by digital connectivity, a heartfelt gesture has transformed the life of a disabled veteran, James Blair, who was seen struggling at his job at John Wayne Airport. LaCinda Thackery, a passenger moved by Blair's determination, captured a video of him and shared it on TikTok, sparking a wave of compassion. Her call to action resonated with over 6,000 people, who collectively donated more than $174,000, enabling Blair to consider retirement and support his elderly mother's care.

  • Kindness
  • Hope
  • Gratitude
YouTube
KindnessGood News Network

Montana Teen Uses Rodeo Lasso to Rescue Drowning Man on Yellowstone River

In a remarkable act of bravery and quick thinking, 14-year-old Jory Thomas from Big Timber, Montana, used his rodeo skills to save a man from drowning in the Yellowstone River. During a family gathering on the 4th of July, Jory heard cries for help and saw a man clinging to a cooler, being swept away by the river's swift current. Without hesitation, he grabbed his lasso, waded into the river, and executed a perfect throw, catching the man around the neck and arm, allowing him to be pulled to safety.

  • Courage
  • Perseverance
  • Kindness
TikTok
KindnessUpworthy

She wanted to get married in her childhood backyard. Her dad spent 8 months rebuilding it for her.

In a heartwarming testament to paternal love and dedication, Nina Salci's father transformed their family backyard into a dream wedding venue for his daughter. This was not just any renovation; it was a labor of love that spanned eight months, during which he meticulously tended to every detail, from power-washing the deck to planting and pruning. For Nina, the backyard was more than just a physical space; it was a vessel of cherished memories, from prom nights to graduation milestones, and her father's dedication ensured that it would be the perfect setting for yet another monumental life event.

  • Love
  • Perseverance
  • Gratitude
YouTube
KindnessGood News Network

Volunteers’ Tiny Bamboo Bridges Have Helped Double Migratory Crab Populations on Taiwan

In a heartening display of grassroots environmental stewardship, volunteers in Taiwan have ingeniously crafted tiny bamboo bridges to aid the annual migration of mangrove land crabs. This initiative has resulted in the doubling of the crab population in just one year, as observed near Taijiang National Park. By constructing these simple structures and occasionally closing roads, the local community has addressed the ecological challenge posed by new waterways that disrupt the crabs' traditional migratory paths. This effort not only safeguards the crabs, which are crucial for maintaining the nutrient cycle of the coastal forests, but also exemplifies how small, compassionate interventions can lead to significant ecological benefits.

  • Kindness
  • Perseverance
  • Hope
Instagram
KindnessUpworthy

Artist gives astonishing temporary tats to kids in hospitals so they feel confident in their own skin

Benjamin Lloyd, a New Zealand tattoo artist, has transformed the sterile environments of children's hospitals into spaces of joy and self-expression by offering non-toxic, temporary tattoos to young patients. Inspired by his own childhood experience of covering a burn scar with drawings, Lloyd's project has grown from a social media promise to a beloved practice over nearly a decade. His intricate designs, ranging from butterflies to metallic stars, have not only provided aesthetic delight but have also bolstered the confidence of countless children, making their hospital stays more bearable and even enjoyable.

  • Kindness
  • Courage
  • Hope
YouTube
KindnessGood News Network

Last Circus Elephant in Portugal Can Now Romp-and-Roll on 1000-Acre Sanctuary After 40 Years of Working

In a heartening turn of events, Julie, the last circus elephant in Portugal, has found a new home at the Pangea Elephant Sanctuary after four decades of performing. Captured as a calf in Africa, Julie's life has been one of spectacle and confinement, until the Portuguese government's 2018 ban on wild animal performances paved the way for her retirement. The Pangea Sanctuary, the first of its kind in Europe, offers her a sprawling 1,000-acre expanse to roam, symbolizing a profound shift in how we care for animals that have long entertained at the expense of their own freedom.

  • Hope
  • Kindness
  • Perseverance
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KindnessUpworthy

A chance 2008 encounter with a wounded warrior led John Mayer to raise $13 million for veterans

John Mayer, known for his musical prowess, has transformed a spontaneous encounter with a wounded warrior in 2008 into a mission-driven journey, raising $13 million for veterans through his Heart and Armor Foundation. This foundation, which he established in 2019, focuses on innovative research into PTSD and other health issues affecting veterans, aiming to reframe these challenges not just as mental but also physical, thus encouraging a more empirical approach to treatment and support.

  • Gratitude
  • Courage
  • Hope
Instagram
KindnessUpworthy

Paralyzed kitten was too small for a wheelchair. So the shelter made one out of random junk.

In a heartwarming tale of ingenuity and compassion, Cincinnati Animal CARE faced a unique challenge when a paralyzed kitten named Gelato arrived at their shelter. Too small for any available animal wheelchair, the staff, led by Veterinary Assistant Lead Mallory Smith, crafted a custom mobility aid using unexpected materials: wooden rulers, zip ties, tape, and a set of Hot Wheels. This inventive solution not only allowed Gelato to move and play but also showcased the shelter's dedication to problem-solving and creativity.

  • Creativity
  • Perseverance
  • Kindness
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KindnessGood News Network

4 Beluga Whales from Shuttered Canadian Park Arrive at Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium After Rescue (LOOK)

In a remarkable display of international cooperation and dedication to animal welfare, four beluga whales from the now-closed Marineland theme park in Ontario have found a new home at Chicago's Shedd Aquarium. This translocation effort, involving intricate logistics from cranes to specialized aircraft, underscores a commitment to providing these animals with a better life after years of controversy surrounding their previous habitat. The whales, aged 21 to 27, are part of a larger group of 30 belugas being relocated to various aquariums, with the operation representing a significant step forward in addressing the challenges of long-term captivity.

  • Courage
  • Hope
  • Kindness
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KindnessUpworthy

Terminal patients reveal exactly what to say, and what not to say, to someone who’s dying

In a poignant exploration of how to converse with those facing terminal illness, terminal patients themselves shed light on the delicate balance between empathy and overbearing sympathy. The article unpacks common missteps, such as expressing pity or suggesting unlikely cures, and instead offers guidance on how to engage meaningfully. Terminal patients express a preference for humor, normalcy, and practical offers of help, highlighting the importance of maintaining dignity and agency in their interactions.

  • Kindness
  • Courage
  • Perspective
Instagram
KindnessUpworthy

Mom buys her 3-year-old son a baby doll. His affectionate parenting skills are melting hearts.

In a heartwarming story from Philadelphia, a young boy named Sylas has captured the internet's affection with his caring interactions with a baby doll named Ellie. After asking for a sibling, his mother, Mary, thoughtfully gifted him the doll, and has since documented Sylas tenderly feeding, bathing, and playing with Ellie. This sweet narrative not only challenges traditional gender roles but also highlights the importance of nurturing skills for boys, a concept that Mary passionately advocates for. Her efforts to normalize boys playing with dolls are resonating with audiences, evidenced by the outpouring of support and the inspiration others have taken from Sylas's example.

  • Kindness
  • Courage
  • Hope
YouTube
KindnessNice News

Inspired by His Grandparents, High Schooler Invents Crosswalk System That Adapts to Pedestrians’ Speeds

Jay Jung, a high school senior, has ingeniously crafted an adaptive crosswalk system, SmartBlink, inspired by his grandparents' challenges in crossing streets. By focusing on pedestrian speed rather than vehicular traffic patterns, Jung’s invention ensures a safer and more inclusive urban environment. His system, which won first place at the prestigious Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, uses advanced algorithms and object detection to adjust crosswalk signals, accounting for diverse mobility needs.

  • Gratitude
  • Curiosity
  • Perseverance
YouTube
KindnessUpworthy

Elderly rescue dog can’t stop putting random items in his bed, keeping his family entertained

In the heartwarming tale of Duke, an elderly golden retriever with a penchant for collecting household items, we find a story not just of quirky canine behavior but of resilience and acceptance. Duke, once labeled nearly unadoptable due to his odd habit of stealing and hoarding random objects, has found a haven with the Hoyt family. Rather than attempting to change him, they embrace his unique ways, allowing him to find comfort and security in his peculiar collections. This understanding underscores the deep impact of past trauma and the healing power of a loving and patient environment.

  • Kindness
  • Perspective
  • Love
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KindnessUpworthy

1st grade teacher asked students to color their ‘favorite’ hat. She then secretly created each one for real.

In a heartwarming tale from Wallace Elementary in Kelso, Washington, first-grade teacher Ashley Lowry turned her students' artistic dreams into reality. After asking her class to design and color their 'favorite' hats, she spent her winter break meticulously crafting each unique design into real, wearable hats. The joy and surprise on the children's faces as they discovered their creations transformed into tangible gifts showcased the profound impact of a teacher's dedication and creativity.

  • Kindness
  • Creativity
  • Perseverance
YouTube
KindnessGood News Network

South Carolina Restaurant Owner Finds $12,000 in Old Cabinet and Returns it to Former Owner

In a heartening display of integrity, Sak Yiengjuntuek, the owner of Lemongrass Pho & Thai Cuisine in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, discovered $12,000 hidden in a sunglasses case within an old cabinet left by the previous owner of the restaurant. Despite the temptation that such a windfall might present, Yiengjuntuek's immediate thought was to return the money to its rightful owner. His efforts to contact the previous owner, who was grappling with health issues, culminated in a live broadcast moment where he successfully reached out and shared the good news.

  • Honesty
  • Kindness
  • Perseverance
Instagram
KindnessUpworthy

Woman with cancer apologizes to Rihanna for her appearance. Rihanna has the best response.

In a touching encounter at a grocery store, Rihanna exemplified the power of sincere kindness. When a fan named Robin, who is living with cancer, apologized for her appearance, Rihanna's immediate response was both disarming and empowering. She assured Robin, "You're fire just like that," turning what could have been an awkward moment into an affirmation of self-worth. This interaction highlights how meaningful words can be, especially to those grappling with illness-related changes in appearance.

  • Kindness
  • Love
  • Courage
YouTube
KindnessUpworthy

14-year-old Arizona boy saves woman with dementia found wandering in 103º heat

In a heartening tale from Gilbert, Arizona, 14-year-old Royal Cothrun exemplifies the profound impact of youthful empathy and quick thinking. While on a bike ride, Cothrun encountered Teresa Morgan, a 75-year-old woman with dementia, disoriented and vulnerable in the oppressive 103º heat. With a keen sense of responsibility, he engaged her in conversation, assessed the situation, and used his Google Glasses to capture the encounter, ultimately helping her recall her son's phone number. His actions not only ensured her safety but also highlighted the potential of technology in assisting real-world crises.

  • Kindness
  • Courage
  • Perspective
YouTube
KindnessNice News

With Cross-Country Bike Tour, Motorcyclists Raised Over $1 Million for Wounded Warrior Project

In a remarkable display of camaraderie and purpose, the Great American Convoy, led by Adam Sandoval, has successfully raised over $1 million for the Wounded Warrior Project. This cross-country motorcycle tour not only highlights the power of collective action but also underscores the deep appreciation and support for veterans who have served. The convoy, which began in Arkansas and traversed to Maine and the Midwest, brought together bikers from various backgrounds, unified by a shared mission to support those who bear the scars of military service.

  • Gratitude
  • Perseverance
  • Kindness
YouTube
KindnessUpworthy

‘We can’t beat you up for peace’: Ringo Starr shares a universal message on his 86th birthday

Ringo Starr, the legendary drummer of The Beatles, celebrated his 86th birthday with his enduring message of 'peace and love.' For 18 years, Starr has invited people around the world to join him in a simple yet profound ritual: at noon on his birthday, wherever they are, to think, say, or post 'peace and love.' This year, the celebration included friends, family, and fellow musicians at Beverly Hills Garden Park, emphasizing that peace is not something to be demanded or enforced, but a state of being to be embraced and shared.

  • Gratitude
  • Hope
  • Love
YouTube
KindnessGood News Network

11-year-old ‘Wasn’t Going to Let a Man Die’ When He Alone Dove in to Rescue Drowning Man

In a remarkable act of bravery and empathy, 11-year-old Avory Woolery from Kentucky demonstrated a maturity beyond his years by rescuing an unconscious man from a swimming pool. Witnessing a dire situation unfold and noting the inaction of bystanders, Avory took decisive action, diving into the water to save the man, whom he regarded simply as a fellow human deserving of life. His quick thinking and sense of responsibility were pivotal in bringing the man to safety, where CPR was administered until emergency services arrived.

  • Courage
  • Empathy
  • Responsibility
TikTok
KindnessGood News Network

Quirky Campaign Leaves Nice Surprises on Cars of Anyone Who Took Cabs Home from the Bar

In a heartwarming initiative, the Montana Barfairies have turned the simple act of leaving gift cards on cars into a viral movement advocating for responsible drinking. By leaving $5 coffee gift cards on vehicles left overnight at bars, they reward those who choose not to drive drunk, transforming a potential source of dread—a windshield note—into a pleasant surprise. This small gesture has rippled outwards, inspiring others and garnering millions of views on social media, as the campaign highlights the importance of making safe choices.

  • Kindness
  • Courage
  • Hope
Instagram
KindnessUpworthy

Sally Field got the call that her father had died mid-scene on ‘Mrs. Doubtfire.’ Robin Williams noticed before she said a word.

In a poignant moment on the set of 'Mrs. Doubtfire,' Sally Field received the devastating news of her father's passing. Despite her attempt to remain composed and continue filming, her emotional flatness caught the attention of Robin Williams. Demonstrating his profound empathy and acute awareness, Williams immediately halted production and ensured Field could leave to grieve and tend to family matters. This act of kindness underscores Williams' sensitivity to the needs of those around him, a trait that left a lasting impression on Field and others who worked with him.

  • Kindness
  • Empathy
  • Perspective

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HopeResilienceGratitudeConnectionCourageCreativityGrowth