Sunday, September 20, 2026

What’s Working

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

Topic

Kindness

Everyday generosity that compounds.

TikTok
KindnessUpworthy

Zipline guide’s quick reflexes save a woman’s hand, but his sweet talk saves her dignity

In a remarkable display of agility and empathy, Averie, a zipline guide at Crater Lake Zipline, saved a woman's hand from potential injury with his quick reflexes and softened the situation with his reassuring demeanor. As the woman approached the platform with her hand in a risky position, Averie acted swiftly to prevent harm, all while maintaining a calm and comforting presence. His ability to manage the physical safety of the situation while addressing the woman's emotional state with gentle encouragement highlights a unique blend of technical skill and emotional intelligence.

  • Courage
  • Kindness
  • Perspective
TikTok
KindnessUpworthy

Gate agents refused to hold the plane for a pregnant passenger. Then the pilot stepped in.

In a heartwarming display of leadership and compassion, a pilot took decisive action to assist a pregnant passenger at Dallas/Fort Worth Airport. Brittany Kamerman and her friends, including a seven-month pregnant Kiley, faced a tight connection due to a delayed first leg of their flight. Despite Kamerman's pleas, the gate agents refused to hold the plane for Kiley. However, the pilot overheard the situation and used his authority to delay the flight, ensuring that Kiley and the rest of the group could board safely.

  • Kindness
  • Courage
  • Love
Instagram
KindnessUpworthy

On 9/11, hundreds of ordinary boat captains carried out the largest maritime evacuation in history

In the shadow of one of the darkest days in American history, an extraordinary act of collective courage unfolded on the waters surrounding Manhattan. On September 11, 2001, as chaos and fear gripped New York City, a spontaneous flotilla of civilian boats orchestrated the largest maritime evacuation in history. Tugboats, ferries, and private vessels of all kinds answered the Coast Guard's urgent call for assistance, rescuing 500,000 people trapped in Lower Manhattan in just nine hours. This impromptu armada, led by ordinary citizens, displayed a profound act of unity and altruism, transforming a day marked by terror into a testament to human decency.

  • Courage
  • Kindness
  • Perseverance
YouTube
KindnessGood News Network

Good Samaritan Helps Mother After Seeing Her Destroyed Home on the News: “He’s been a blessing”

In an inspiring tale from the Bronx, Scott Evans, a Long Island resident, transformed the life of Nina Chambers, whose apartment and belongings were consumed by a devastating fire. Witnessing her plight on the news, Evans felt compelled to act, contributing $3,000 to help Chambers and her three children regain their footing. This act of generosity not only provided immediate relief but also served as a catalyst for Chambers to rebuild her life, culminating in her graduation with a degree in human services and securing a new home.

  • Kindness
  • Hope
  • Courage
YouTube
KindnessUpworthy

Researchers put Batman on a crowded subway to test a fascinating theory about human kindness

In a novel experiment conducted on the Milan metro, researchers sought to explore the depths of human kindness through an unexpected source: Batman. By introducing a man dressed as the iconic superhero onto a crowded subway, they hoped to disrupt the typical commuter autopilot and observe any changes in social behavior. The results were striking—when Batman was present, the number of people offering their seats to a visibly pregnant woman increased from 37% to 67%. Interestingly, many participants who relinquished their seats were not consciously aware of Batman's presence, suggesting that his mere appearance created an atmosphere that encouraged mindfulness and empathy.

  • Curiosity
  • Hope
  • Kindness
Instagram
KindnessUpworthy

How Dolly Parton managed to win over nearly everyone, no matter their beliefs or background

Dolly Parton's universal appeal lies in her ability to be both genuine and unifying, transcending social and political divides. Her story illustrates that one doesn't need to be neutral to be beloved; rather, it’s about standing firm in one's beliefs while demonstrating consistent love and kindness. Parton's actions, such as changing the name of her Dixie Stampede show when it was pointed out as offensive, reflect her willingness to listen and act, rather than retreat into defensiveness or controversy.

  • Courage
  • Kindness
  • Perspective
YouTube
KindnessGood News Network

Florida Teens Design Charity App to Help Generous Locals Deliver ‘Pizza for a Purpose’

In an inspiring tale of youthful innovation, Florida teens Aashrita and Anish Kaza have harnessed their tech skills to create 'Pizza for a Purpose,' an app that connects local restaurants with charities to deliver pizzas to those in need. This initiative, born out of their volunteering experiences, has facilitated the donation of 25,000 pizza slices to food-insecure families in Broward County. By streamlining the donation process, the app empowers individuals to easily contribute to their community, bringing joy and sustenance to many.

  • Gratitude
  • Hope
  • Courage
Instagram
KindnessNice News

Teen Who Lost Mom Paints Free Portraits of Loved Ones for Grieving Families: “I Saw What the Power of Art Could Do”

At just 17, Hugh Saetia is transforming personal grief into a mission of healing through his nonprofit, The Eternal Canvas Foundation. After losing his mother at a tender age and witnessing the profound impact of a portrait he painted for a family friend, Saetia began offering free portraits of deceased loved ones to grieving families. His initiative not only honors the memory of those lost but also provides a unique form of solace to those left behind, illustrating the deeply personal yet universal nature of grief.

  • Gratitude
  • Kindness
  • Hope
TikTok
KindnessUpworthy

She got fired from her bank job on the way home, sat on the train, said a prayer. Her phone rang 15 seconds later.

In a world where job loss often leads to a spiral of uncertainty and self-doubt, the story of a woman who lost her bank teller position due to an $800 error offers a refreshing narrative of resilience and faith. Instead of succumbing to despair, she chose gratitude, offering thanks for the job she had held, and within moments, received a phone call offering a new opportunity. This swift turn of events underscores the power of maintaining a positive outlook and the potential ripple effects of kindness and service noted by others.

  • Gratitude
  • Kindness
  • Hope
Instagram
KindnessNice News

Cleveland Teens Used Their Robotics Skills to 3D-Print Prosthetics for Kids in Ecuador

In a heartening blend of technology and empathy, a group of Cleveland teenagers harnessed their robotics skills to create 3D-printed prosthetics for children in Ecuador. Through the Great Lakes Science Center Robotics Initiative, these high school students embarked on a journey that transcended mere technical prowess. By delivering prosthetics that cost less than $150 to produce, they provided not just physical aid, but also a renewed sense of independence and hope to young recipients. The project, known as Hands Across Borders, has successfully extended its reach to over 80 children across four countries, demonstrating the profound impact of accessible technology.

  • Kindness
  • Courage
  • Hope
TikTok
KindnessUpworthy

She recorded her boss’s reaction to her quitting. Now everyone wants her manager.

In a world where resignation often marks a tense farewell, Lauren Balsiger's TikTok video offers a refreshing narrative that has captured the attention of over a million viewers. Her manager's gracious response—encouraging her to follow her heart—defies the typical exit interview script and instead provides a heartfelt blessing. By acknowledging Balsiger's ambitions and potential, the manager not only validated her decision but also reinforced the importance of seeing employees as more than just their roles. This story resonates deeply, as reflected in comments that express longing for such humanity and empathy in the workplace.

  • Kindness
  • Perspective
  • Courage
Instagram
KindnessUpworthy

Bullies chased Mister Rogers home yelling ‘fat Freddy.’ His grandfather said 12 words that changed everything.

In a poignant story that reveals the origins of Fred Rogers' enduring message of self-worth and acceptance, we learn about a pivotal moment from his childhood. Known to many as the beloved Mister Rogers, Fred Rogers faced bullying and loneliness as a child due to his health issues and weight. But it was the words of his grandfather, Fred Brooks McFeely, that provided a turning point. When Rogers was taunted by bullies and felt isolated, his grandfather's simple affirmation—'You made this day really special just by being yourself, and I happen to like you just the way you are'—offered him a powerful antidote to the cruelty of others.

  • Gratitude
  • Kindness
  • Hope
YouTube
KindnessUpworthy

On 9/11, Gander, Newfoundland, took in thousands of stranded passengers from 38 diverted planes

In the immediate aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, became an unexpected sanctuary for 7,000 stranded passengers from 38 diverted planes. The town's population of 8,000 opened their hearts and homes, showcasing a profound level of kindness and community spirit. Residents provided shelter, food, and comfort to the travelers, transforming a moment of global tragedy into a testament to human solidarity. The story of Gander is not just one of hospitality but of enduring relationships, as evidenced by the scholarship fund that passengers later created for Gander students, raising over $1 million.

  • Kindness
  • Gratitude
  • Courage
YouTube
KindnessUpworthy

A rich maharaja took in 1,000 Polish kids during WWII, recreating their home on Indian soil

In a remarkable act of compassion during WWII, Maharaja Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji Jadeja of Nawanagar, India, provided refuge to over 1,000 Polish children displaced by the war. These children, having faced the harrowing journey from Soviet labor camps, found a haven in Balachadi, where the maharaja recreated a semblance of their homeland. This refuge was not merely a shelter; it was an attempt to restore their childhood, complete with education, cultural practices, and the normalcy of daily routines. The maharaja’s approach to humanitarian aid was instinctive yet profound, prioritizing not only the physical needs of the children but also their emotional and cultural well-being.

  • Kindness
  • Hope
  • Courage
TikTok
KindnessUpworthy

83 neighbors made ‘Halloween in July’ for birthday of autistic boy who loves trick-or-treating

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, 83 neighbors came together to create a 'Halloween in July' for Soren, an autistic boy who adores trick-or-treating. With his birthday falling in the summer months, Soren's mother, Leah Farrow, sought to give him an unforgettable experience by rallying their neighborhood through a Facebook group. The overwhelming response saw neighbors enthusiastically participate, welcoming Soren in his banana costume with candy, snacks, and even personalized birthday signs.

  • Kindness
  • Hope
  • Love
YouTube
KindnessGood News Network

After Stranger Gives Boy a Piano, a ‘Mozart Level’ Is Revealed in Spite of Autism

In a heartening tale from Colorado, the life of Jude Kofie, an autistic boy with a hidden musical genius, was transformed by the unexpected generosity of Bill Magnuson, a local piano tuner. Jude's journey began on an old, forgotten electric keyboard, where his prodigious talent first revealed itself. His story caught the attention of Magnuson, who was so moved by Jude's gift and his family's story that he decided to purchase a $15,000 grand piano for Jude, funded from his own inheritance. This act of kindness not only provided Jude with a superior instrument but also a lifetime of tuning services and professional lessons, enabling him to evolve from a child prodigy to a 14-year-old touring maestro.

  • Kindness
  • Hope
  • Gratitude
YouTube
KindnessNice News

At This Houseplant Hospital, “Patients” Recover Under the Care of a Green Thumb

In a world increasingly disconnected from nature, the Hilda Houseplant Hospital in Edinburgh offers a unique sanctuary for both plants and their owners. Founded by Rosanna and Tom Costello, this pioneering establishment tends to the ailments of houseplants with the same care and attention one might expect in a traditional hospital. The plant infirmary not only provides practical services like repotting and pest removal but also offers emotional relief to plant owners who feel overwhelmed by their botanical responsibilities. Rosanna, a self-proclaimed 'reformed plant killer,' has transformed her personal journey into a resource for others, creating a community around the shared love and struggle of keeping houseplants thriving.

  • Curiosity
  • Kindness
  • Hope
Facebook
KindnessGood News Network

Stranger Gives His Truck to Rock Band to Finish Their Tour, Driving 500 Miles and Back Again (WATCH)

In a heartwarming tale of unexpected generosity, a 60-year-old man named Ernie stepped in to rescue a touring rock band, the Autumn Kings, when their van broke down in the middle of rural Wisconsin. Faced with the prospect of missing their next performance due to a two-day repair delay, the band was in a bind with only ten hours to reach their next gig in Grand Rapids. Ernie, embodying the essence of 'Midwest Nice,' offered the band his Ford Explorer, allowing them to continue their tour and deliver what they described as one of the greatest shows of their career.

  • Kindness
  • Gratitude
  • Hope
YouTube
KindnessGood News Network

Lynx Rescued in War-torn Ukraine Walks on Grass for the First Time (WATCH)

In a heartening tale of resilience and care, Ursa, a Eurasian lynx, has transitioned from a life of peril in war-torn Ukraine to a sanctuary of safety in the UK. Rescued from dire conditions in Kyiv, where she was illegally kept as a pet, Ursa's journey to freedom was fraught with challenges, including navigating through an active war zone. Her story is a testament to the power of international collaboration and the tireless efforts of the Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent, which raised significant funds to secure her evacuation and eventual resettlement.

  • Perseverance
  • Courage
  • Kindness
Instagram
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
Instagram
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

More topics