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Kindness Close to Home

Building more connected communities, one neighbor at a time.

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Each year, the Center for HumanKindness is excited to partner with community members and inspire them to start a chain reaction of kindness and connectivity throughout central Ohio neighborhoods. Born out of community conversations at The Big Table®, Kindness Close to Home seeks to bring neighbors together to build a friendlier, kinder community where everyone feels seen and known.

 

Hosting a small, casual gathering with a few folks who live nearby is one excellent way to get to know your neighbors and strengthen your community. While registration for hosting gatherings and receiving a kit is now closed, we encourage you to stay connected and explore future opportunities to engage with your neighbors and foster community spirit.

Questions? Contact us at kindness@columbusfoundation.org.

 

 

Why It Matters

 

 

Socially connected communities are healthier, more trusting, safer, and more prosperous. Exploring deeper connections with the people who live and work in your neighborhood can have surprising benefits for you, your neighbors, and the community.

 

Even before the pandemic, people were struggling to connect with one another. Unfortunately, this trend has continued in recent years. In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General called attention to the crisis of loneliness and isolation, laying out a national framework to increase social connection in our lives and our communities. By intentionally gathering neighbors, you can help build meaningful connections and create communities where everyone feels a sense of belonging.

 

Kindness Close to Home participants in 2023 said...

  

"Every participant thanked me multiple times for hosting and as I explained the larger effort and purpose, the guests couldn't say enough complimentary words about the initiative."

"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."

"One guest has lived on the street for 50 years. She shared the last time a neighbor hosted a gathering, it was at least 20 years ago. We also had multiple neighbors offer to host the next one."

"It was great to see people talking with each other and making connections...I'm sure that the connections made will encourage future engagement."