In June, the World Health Organization (WHO) Commission on Social Connection released a landmark report detailing the crucial role that social connection plays in our health and well-being—not just for individuals, but also for society. As the report demonstrates, strong social bonds boost our physical and mental health, reduce preventable deaths, and foster stronger, safer, and more resilient communities.
Unfortunately, social isolation and loneliness are widespread: nearly one in six people around the world feel lonely, with young people reporting the highest rates of loneliness. Social disconnection is a public health challenge that affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and regions, including right here in central Ohio. Although the causes of loneliness and social isolation are varied and complex, there are many actions that individuals, organizations, and communities can take to strengthen relationships and create opportunities for authentic connection.
Pictured: Center for HumanKindness staff and interns.
Through community engagement, grantmaking, supporting research, and partnerships, the Center for HumanKindness at The Columbus Foundation is on a mission to do just that—inspire acts of kindness and strengthen social connections in our community. Knowing that the community is our greatest asset, the Center for HumanKindness collaborates with individuals and organizations to build stronger social ties and encourage more kindness throughout our region.
One way the Center for HumanKindness is encouraging connection is through Kindness Close to Home, an annual initiative that brings neighbors together make meaningful connections and create communities where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Now in its third year, Kindness Close to Home encourages individuals to host small gatherings with their neighbors, whether over a casual porch conversation, backyard barbeque, or meet up at a local park.
Getting to know your neighbors isn’t just a kind act—it’s a powerful way to strengthen the social fabric of your community. As one former Kindness Close to Home host shared, “People already greet each other more in the street. A number of neighbors have asked about doing it every year and want to form a group to organize.”
Register for a FREE neighborliness kit to start a chain reaction of kindness!
Kindness Close to Home is currently underway through the end of the summer. To learn more and become a volunteer host, please visit The Columbus Foundation’s website. The Center for HumanKindness provides registered hosts with a free neighborliness kit, while supplies last, to help make hosting a neighborhood gathering easy and engaging.
Another way the Center for HumanKindness is sparking connection and spreading kindness in the community this summer is through its Kindness Street Team. Powered by Center for HumanKindness staff and interns, in just three months, the Kindness Street Team has appeared at dozens of community gatherings and spoken with more than 3,000 people about the importance of kindness, connection, and how each of us plays a part in building a stronger, kinder region for all.
If you see the Center for HumanKindness’ blue tent at an upcoming community event, come say hello and meet the Kindness Street Team—you’ll have an opportunity to learn more about local social enterprises, celebrate nonprofits in our region, share the joy of connecting with strangers, and even spin the Kindness Prize Wheel.
The WHO’s recent report on social isolation and loneliness is an important reminder that, in an ever-changing and unpredictable world, our relationships with and connections to one another matter. Although the Center for HumanKindness works year-round to promote its mission—including through initiatives like The Big Table® and Gifts of Kindness—there are many ways for community members to take part in a summer of connection and kindness.
The Center for HumanKindness is a collaboration between The Columbus Foundation and the Walter Foundation. Subscribe to InsideKindness, the Center for HumanKindness’ newsletter, to receive regular resources and opportunities.
