
Let's Do More Together
Meet the people infusing their communities with love and support when it’s needed most
01.16.21
True
If the past year has taught us nothing else, it's that sending love out into the world through selfless acts of kindness can have a positive ripple effect on people and communities. People all over the United States seemed to have gotten the message — 71% of those surveyed by the World Giving Index helped a stranger in need in 2020. A nonprofit survey found 90% helped others by running errands, calling, texting and sending care packages. Many people needed a boost last year in one way or another and obliging good neighbors heeded the call over and over again — and continue to make a positive impact through their actions in this new year.
Upworthy and P&G Good Everyday wanted to help keep kindness going strong, so they partnered up to create the Lead with Love Fund. The fund awards do-gooders in communities around the country with grants to help them continue on with their unique missions. Hundreds of nominations came pouring in and five winners were selected based on three criteria: the impact of action, uniqueness, and "Upworthy-ness" of their story.
Here's a look at the five winners:
Edith Ornelas, co-creator of Mariposas Collective in Memphis, Tenn.
Edith Ornelas has a deep-rooted connection to the asylum-seeking immigrant families she brings food and supplies to families in Memphis, Tenn. She was born in Jalisco, Mexico, and immigrated to the United States when she was 7 years old with her parents and sister. Edith grew up in Chicago, then moved to Memphis in 2016, where she quickly realized how few community programs existed for immigrants. Two years later, she helped create Mariposas Collective, which initially aimed to help families who had just been released from detention centers and were seeking asylum. The collective started out small but has since grown to approximately 400 volunteers.
<p>
In 2020, Mariposas shifted gears somewhat to help immigrants in the community who have lost their job or income stream due to the pandemic. The volunteers bring food and other essential supplies to families' homes, but Edith often lingers beyond the initial drop off, providing a sympathetic ear for families dealing with high levels of stress. Her patience and genuine concern inspires other Latinx people to come into the Mariposas circle and become community leaders, which in turn is making Memphis a more welcoming place for immigrants.
</p><p>
<strong>Tom Dittl, a first-grade teacher in Wisconsin</strong></p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTUzMzI5Ny9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzNTMxMDU4MH0.6vIYClSTWC5slsZNaSd72jt2c54VN9xCKCQEsNPKjjc/img.png?width=286&coordinates=0%2C0%2C0%2C0&height=381" id="cdf24" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9de87c04606a9667dfeea201fac3a16a" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="286" data-height="381">
</p><p>Like most teachers in 2020, Tom Dittl had to find fun, creative ways to navigate the challenges of teaching his students virtually. And he took it to the next level. Recently, Dittl made a music video of Jack Johnson's song "Upside Down" while dressed up as The Man in the Yellow Hat — a character from Curious George children's stories — to cheer up his students who've been cooped up at home. But the song also had a deeper purpose: He hoped it would inspire them to be kind to one another and spread that kindness around their communities.<br></p><p>
In the video, he tells his students that you can always be kind, even when you're going through something tough. In response, many of them made "kindness rocks" and put them all over their neighborhoods as reminders for others to be kind.
</p><p>
Teachers have had one of the toughest jobs last year (not to mention every year). When a teacher like Mr. Dittl makes such a noticeable impact on his students, despite the obstacles and distractions of 2020, it's unequivocally a win.
</p><p>
<strong>Nikki and Jonathan Romain, creators of the Art Inc. Center in Peoria, Ill.</strong></p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTUzMzI5OC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3MzM1NDM3M30.nT5owLlOTiGZAw7cGt3NEJbgn86aZVWB2FZwDffz-EA/img.png?width=336&coordinates=0%2C0%2C0%2C0&height=270" id="264c8" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="76dabc58784ed75d9500a605634efea4" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="336" data-height="270">
</p><p>Arts education is so often overlooked, even though it can be a pathway to creative thinking, personal growth and a successful future. It's typically the first thing to go in lower-income public school curriculums, which leaves inner-city youth without an artistic outlet, or at least one that's professionally guided. So Nikki and Jonathan Romain decided to open up another artistic avenue for the inner-city youth of Peoria, Ill., in the form of an art center called <u><a href="https://www.artincpeoria.org/about" target="_blank">Art Inc.</a></u><br></p><p>
The Center provides space and tools for the entire community to have an experiential arts education. Nikki and Jonathan also offer support and structure for young people to try their hand at various forms of artistic expression and pursue higher education goals. Nikki is the Executive Director and handles most of the business of the nonprofit, whereas Jonathan, using his professional artist expertise, runs development of the art and culture programs. He also serves as a counselor for youth who may be struggling to find their way. Together, they've made Art Inc. a haven for all community members and a place where art is always valued.
</p><p>
<strong>Kari Harbath, 'involuntary expert in grief' in Utah</strong></p><div id="cdd67" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="69268fcd99582b6116b71bf5b45dbcd8"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="4" style=" background:#FFF; border:0;
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJEYPoYhsLR/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif;
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</div></blockquote></div><p>Kari Harbath is no stranger to hardship and suffering. In April 2019, due to pregnancy complications, she gave birth to a daughter who is deaf, blind and has <u><a href="https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/charge-syndrome/" target="_blank">CHARGE syndrome</a></u>, a rare disorder that affects multiple organ systems in the body. If that weren't challenging enough, the following September, Kari lost her mother, and then this past June, she lost her husband of 13 years.<br></p><p>
Yet somehow, after a year of unimaginable loss, Kari has managed to carry on with life and the care of her daughter, Sloan. In fact, she's taken what she's learned through her experience with grief and uses it to support others dealing with similar hardships. She's willing to return to that uncomfortable place over and over again just so she can help someone else climb out of it. Kari is <u><a href="https://www.instagram.com/sloan_strength_/" target="_blank">available as a resource for anyone who's struggling</a></u> or caring for someone who has disabilities and may feel lost.
</p><p>
<strong>Chavonne Hodges, Founder of Grillzandgranola in New York</strong></p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTUzMzMwMS9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2NjM4ODM2Mn0.taU1KBmingcwNtQGbx_sDvoqKDqBrj1wQkZUfN4RLZ8/img.png?width=316&coordinates=0%2C0%2C0%2C0&height=236" id="35ad2" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="dc123f1e7b44b1d2a3e99c38a02152fa" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="316" data-height="236">
</p><p>When Chavonne was 26, she was going through a divorce and struggling with a panic disorder. She knew she needed to do something to help herself feel better, so she started working out at a gym. While there, she noticed a serious lack of racial and body diversity, so she decided to create her own gym and exercise program that caters to both. The gym is called <u><a href="https://www.grillzandgranola.com/" target="_blank">Grillzandgranola</a></u>, and aside from physical health, it's dedicated to mental wellbeing and community collaboration.<br></p><p>
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Grillzandgranola has moved classes online and created a space for group therapy called FEEL Better. These free therapy sessions are led by a diverse group of mental health professionals and are designed to help Black, Indigenous and people of color cope with grief, isolation, and negative emotions during these challenging times.
</p><p>
<strong>Love Wins<br>
</strong>Kind, selfless acts have the power to change lives. It doesn't matter how big or small your act of kindness is, if it's thoughtful and genuine, you're doing it right. Not sure where to start? By joining <u><a href="https://www.pggoodeveryday.com/" target="_blank">P&G Good Everyday</a></u>, you can lead with love through your actions. Each time you answer surveys, take quizzes and scan receipts, you can feel good knowing that P&G will automatically donate to your favorite cause like ending period poverty, saving wildlife, or providing natural disaster relief.
</p><p>
<strong>Join us and #LeadWithLove.</strong> We know that even the smallest acts of good can make a world of difference.
</p>
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If you've never seen a Maori haka performed, you're missing out.
The Maori are the indigenous peoples of New Zealand, and their language and customs are an integral part of the island nation. One of the most recognizable Maori traditions outside of New Zealand is the haka, a ceremonial dance or challenge usually performed in a group. The haka represents the pride, strength, and unity of a tribe and is characterized by foot-stamping, body slapping, tongue protrusions, and rhythmic chanting.
Haka is performed at weddings as a sign of reverence and respect for the bride and groom and are also frequently seen before sports competitions, such as rugby matches.
Here's an example of a rugby haka:
<p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-youtube">
<span style="display:block;position:relative;padding-top:56.25%;" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9461d9e2dbe735d2ca33c78e13dd134b"><iframe type="lazy-iframe" data-runner-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vnvI6V-TtLs?rel=0" width="100%" height="auto" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;"></iframe></span>
<small class="image-media media-caption" placeholder="Add Photo Caption...">Maori All Blacks Haka at sold-out BC Place in Vancouver</small>
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="Add Photo Credit...">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnvI6V-TtLs" target="_blank">www.youtube.com</a>
</small>
</p><p>The intensity of the haka is the point. It is meant to be a show of strength and elicit a strong response—which makes seeing a tiny toddler learning to do it all the more adorable. </p><p>Danny Heke, who goes by <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@focuswithdan" target="_blank">@focuswithdan on TikTok</a>, shared a video of a baby learning haka and omigosh it is seriously the most adorable thing. When you see most haka, the dancers aren't smiling—their faces are fierce—so this wee one starting off with an infectious grin is just too much. You can see that he's already getting the moves down, facial expressions and all, though. </p><div class="rm-embed embed-media"><blockquote cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@focuswithdan/video/6892850058484665601" class="tiktok-embed" data-video-id="6892850058484665601" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;"> <section> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@focuswithdan" target="_blank" title="@focuswithdan">@focuswithdan</a> When you grow up learning haka! <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/haka" target="_blank" title="haka">##haka</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/teachthemyoung" target="_blank" title="teachthemyoung">##teachthemyoung</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/maori" target="_blank" title="maori">##maori</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/m%C4%81ori" target="_blank" title="māori">##māori</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/focuswithdan" target="_blank" title="focuswithdan">##focuswithdan</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/fyp" target="_blank" title="fyp">##fyp</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/foryou" target="_blank" title="foryou">##foryou</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/kapahaka" target="_blank" title="kapahaka">##kapahaka</a><br> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-6892850048208587521" target="_blank" title="♬ original sound - Focuswithdan">♬ original sound - Focuswithdan</a> </section> </blockquote> <script async="" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script></div><p>As cute as this video is, it's part of a larger effort by Heke to use his TikTok channel to share and promote Maori culture. His videos cover everything from the Te Reo Maori language to traditional practices to issues of prejudice Maori people face. </p><p>Here he briefly goes over the different body parts that make up haka:</p><div class="rm-embed embed-media"><blockquote cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@focuswithdan/video/6906626420303318273" class="tiktok-embed" data-video-id="6906626420303318273" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;"> <section> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@focuswithdan" target="_blank" title="@focuswithdan">@focuswithdan</a> Māori culture Part <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/1" target="_blank" title="1">##1</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/maori" target="_blank" title="maori">##Maori</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/m%C4%81ori" target="_blank" title="māori">##māori</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/focuswithdan" target="_blank" title="focuswithdan">##focuswithdan</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/culture" target="_blank" title="culture">##culture</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/aotearoa" target="_blank" title="aotearoa">##aotearoa</a> Music credit: @just2maori <br> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/Ngati-6904863261917726722" target="_blank" title="♬ Ngati - Just2maori">♬ Ngati - Just2maori</a> </section> </blockquote> <script async="" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script></div><p>This video explains the purerehua, or bullroarer, which is a Maori instrument that is sometimes used to call rains during a drought.</p><div class="rm-embed embed-media"><blockquote cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@focuswithdan/video/6889321367766879490" class="tiktok-embed" data-video-id="6889321367766879490" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;"> <section> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@focuswithdan" target="_blank" title="@focuswithdan">@focuswithdan</a> Reply to @sad.animevibes Some tribes used this to call the rains during drought 🌧 ⛈ <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/maori" target="_blank" title="maori">##maori</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/m%C4%81ori" target="_blank" title="māori">##māori</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/focuswithdan" target="_blank" title="focuswithdan">##focuswithdan</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/fyp" target="_blank" title="fyp">##fyp</a><br> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/P%C5%ABrerehua-6889321353669888770" target="_blank" title="♬ Pūrerehua - Focuswithdan">♬ Pūrerehua - Focuswithdan</a> </section> </blockquote> <script async="" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script></div><p>This one shares a demonstration and explanation of the taiaha, a traditional Maori weapon.</p><div class="rm-embed embed-media"><blockquote cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@focuswithdan/video/6888886375353994498" class="tiktok-embed" data-video-id="6888886375353994498" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;"> <section> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@focuswithdan" target="_blank" title="@focuswithdan">@focuswithdan</a> Reply to @shauncalvert Taiaha, one of the most formidable of the Māori Weaponry <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/taiaha" target="_blank" title="taiaha">##taiaha</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/maori" target="_blank" title="maori">##maori</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/m%C4%81ori" target="_blank" title="māori">##māori</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/focuswithdan" target="_blank" title="focuswithdan">##focuswithdan</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/fyp" target="_blank" title="fyp">##fyp</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/foryou" target="_blank" title="foryou">##foryou</a><br> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-6888886339178154753" target="_blank" title="♬ original sound - Focuswithdan">♬ original sound - Focuswithdan</a> </section> </blockquote> <script async="" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script></div><p>For another taste of haka, check out this video from a school graduation:</p><div class="rm-embed embed-media"><blockquote cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@focuswithdan/video/6904726254008749313" class="tiktok-embed" data-video-id="6904726254008749313" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;"> <section> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@focuswithdan" target="_blank" title="@focuswithdan">@focuswithdan</a> When your little cuzzy graduates and her school honours her with a haka <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/maori" target="_blank" title="maori">##maori</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/m%C4%81ori" target="_blank" title="māori">##māori</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/haka" target="_blank" title="haka">##haka</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/focuswithdan" target="_blank" title="focuswithdan">##focuswithdan</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/fyp" target="_blank" title="fyp">##fyp</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/graduation" target="_blank" title="graduation">##graduation</a> @its_keshamarley <br> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/Te-Kura-Kaupapa-M%C4%81ori-o-Ng%C4%81ti-Ruanui-6904726231351118594" target="_blank" title="♬ Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ngāti Ruanui - Focuswithdan">♬ Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ngāti Ruanui - Focuswithdan</a> </section> </blockquote> <script async="" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script></div><p>Heke even has some fun with the trolls and racists in the comments who try to tell him his culture is dead (what?). <br></p><div class="rm-embed embed-media"><blockquote cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@focuswithdan/video/6920837823880908034" class="tiktok-embed" data-video-id="6920837823880908034" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;"> <section> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@focuswithdan" target="_blank" title="@focuswithdan">@focuswithdan</a> Credit to you all my AMAZING FOLLOWERS! <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/focuswithdan" target="_blank" title="focuswithdan">##focuswithdan</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/maori" target="_blank" title="maori">##maori</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/m%C4%81ori" target="_blank" title="māori">##māori</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/followers" target="_blank" title="followers">##followers</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/fyp" target="_blank" title="fyp">##fyp</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/trolls" target="_blank" title="trolls">##trolls</a><br> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-6887667115986406149" target="_blank" title="♬ original sound - sounds for slomo_bro!">♬ original sound - sounds for slomo_bro!</a> </section> </blockquote> <script async="" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script></div><p>Unfortunately, it's not just ignorant commenters who spew racist bile. A radio interview clip that aired recently called Maori people "genetically predisposed to crime, alcohol, and underperformance," among other terrible things. (The host, a former mayor of Auckland, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/7NEWSsydney/posts/4369967079694058" target="_blank">has been let go</a> for going along with and contributing to the caller's racist narrative.)</p><div class="rm-embed embed-media"><blockquote cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@focuswithdan/video/6922260331762896130" class="tiktok-embed" data-video-id="6922260331762896130" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;"> <section> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@focuswithdan" target="_blank" title="@focuswithdan">@focuswithdan</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/newzealand" target="_blank" title="newzealand">##newzealand</a> radio in 2021 delivering racist commentaries 🤦🏽♂️ <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/m%C4%81ori" target="_blank" title="māori">##māori</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/maori" target="_blank" title="maori">##maori</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/focuswithdan" target="_blank" title="focuswithdan">##focuswithdan</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/racism" target="_blank" title="racism">##racism</a> DC: @call.me.lettie2.0 <br> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-6921848770695154433" target="_blank" title="♬ original sound - Call.me.lettie">♬ original sound - Call.me.lettie</a> </section> </blockquote> <script async="" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script></div><p>That clip highlights why what Heke is sharing is so important. The whole world is enriched when Indigenous people like the Maori have their voices heard and their culture celebrated. The more we learn from each other and our diverse ways of life, the more enjoyable life on Earth will be and the better we'll get at collaborating <span></span>to confront the challenges we all share. <br></p>
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Let's Do More Together
Meet the people infusing their communities with love and support when it’s needed most
01.16.21
True
If the past year has taught us nothing else, it's that sending love out into the world through selfless acts of kindness can have a positive ripple effect on people and communities. People all over the United States seemed to have gotten the message — 71% of those surveyed by the World Giving Index helped a stranger in need in 2020. A nonprofit survey found 90% helped others by running errands, calling, texting and sending care packages. Many people needed a boost last year in one way or another and obliging good neighbors heeded the call over and over again — and continue to make a positive impact through their actions in this new year.
Upworthy and P&G Good Everyday wanted to help keep kindness going strong, so they partnered up to create the Lead with Love Fund. The fund awards do-gooders in communities around the country with grants to help them continue on with their unique missions. Hundreds of nominations came pouring in and five winners were selected based on three criteria: the impact of action, uniqueness, and "Upworthy-ness" of their story.
Here's a look at the five winners:
Edith Ornelas, co-creator of Mariposas Collective in Memphis, Tenn.
Edith Ornelas has a deep-rooted connection to the asylum-seeking immigrant families she brings food and supplies to families in Memphis, Tenn. She was born in Jalisco, Mexico, and immigrated to the United States when she was 7 years old with her parents and sister. Edith grew up in Chicago, then moved to Memphis in 2016, where she quickly realized how few community programs existed for immigrants. Two years later, she helped create Mariposas Collective, which initially aimed to help families who had just been released from detention centers and were seeking asylum. The collective started out small but has since grown to approximately 400 volunteers.
<p>
In 2020, Mariposas shifted gears somewhat to help immigrants in the community who have lost their job or income stream due to the pandemic. The volunteers bring food and other essential supplies to families' homes, but Edith often lingers beyond the initial drop off, providing a sympathetic ear for families dealing with high levels of stress. Her patience and genuine concern inspires other Latinx people to come into the Mariposas circle and become community leaders, which in turn is making Memphis a more welcoming place for immigrants.
</p><p>
<strong>Tom Dittl, a first-grade teacher in Wisconsin</strong></p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTUzMzI5Ny9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzNTMxMDU4MH0.6vIYClSTWC5slsZNaSd72jt2c54VN9xCKCQEsNPKjjc/img.png?width=286&coordinates=0%2C0%2C0%2C0&height=381" id="cdf24" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9de87c04606a9667dfeea201fac3a16a" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="286" data-height="381">
</p><p>Like most teachers in 2020, Tom Dittl had to find fun, creative ways to navigate the challenges of teaching his students virtually. And he took it to the next level. Recently, Dittl made a music video of Jack Johnson's song "Upside Down" while dressed up as The Man in the Yellow Hat — a character from Curious George children's stories — to cheer up his students who've been cooped up at home. But the song also had a deeper purpose: He hoped it would inspire them to be kind to one another and spread that kindness around their communities.<br></p><p>
In the video, he tells his students that you can always be kind, even when you're going through something tough. In response, many of them made "kindness rocks" and put them all over their neighborhoods as reminders for others to be kind.
</p><p>
Teachers have had one of the toughest jobs last year (not to mention every year). When a teacher like Mr. Dittl makes such a noticeable impact on his students, despite the obstacles and distractions of 2020, it's unequivocally a win.
</p><p>
<strong>Nikki and Jonathan Romain, creators of the Art Inc. Center in Peoria, Ill.</strong></p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTUzMzI5OC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3MzM1NDM3M30.nT5owLlOTiGZAw7cGt3NEJbgn86aZVWB2FZwDffz-EA/img.png?width=336&coordinates=0%2C0%2C0%2C0&height=270" id="264c8" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="76dabc58784ed75d9500a605634efea4" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="336" data-height="270">
</p><p>Arts education is so often overlooked, even though it can be a pathway to creative thinking, personal growth and a successful future. It's typically the first thing to go in lower-income public school curriculums, which leaves inner-city youth without an artistic outlet, or at least one that's professionally guided. So Nikki and Jonathan Romain decided to open up another artistic avenue for the inner-city youth of Peoria, Ill., in the form of an art center called <u><a href="https://www.artincpeoria.org/about" target="_blank">Art Inc.</a></u><br></p><p>
The Center provides space and tools for the entire community to have an experiential arts education. Nikki and Jonathan also offer support and structure for young people to try their hand at various forms of artistic expression and pursue higher education goals. Nikki is the Executive Director and handles most of the business of the nonprofit, whereas Jonathan, using his professional artist expertise, runs development of the art and culture programs. He also serves as a counselor for youth who may be struggling to find their way. Together, they've made Art Inc. a haven for all community members and a place where art is always valued.
</p><p>
<strong>Kari Harbath, 'involuntary expert in grief' in Utah</strong></p><div id="cdd67" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="69268fcd99582b6116b71bf5b45dbcd8"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="4" style=" background:#FFF; border:0;
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJEYPoYhsLR/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif;
font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;
word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top"></a></p>
</div></blockquote></div><p>Kari Harbath is no stranger to hardship and suffering. In April 2019, due to pregnancy complications, she gave birth to a daughter who is deaf, blind and has <u><a href="https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/charge-syndrome/" target="_blank">CHARGE syndrome</a></u>, a rare disorder that affects multiple organ systems in the body. If that weren't challenging enough, the following September, Kari lost her mother, and then this past June, she lost her husband of 13 years.<br></p><p>
Yet somehow, after a year of unimaginable loss, Kari has managed to carry on with life and the care of her daughter, Sloan. In fact, she's taken what she's learned through her experience with grief and uses it to support others dealing with similar hardships. She's willing to return to that uncomfortable place over and over again just so she can help someone else climb out of it. Kari is <u><a href="https://www.instagram.com/sloan_strength_/" target="_blank">available as a resource for anyone who's struggling</a></u> or caring for someone who has disabilities and may feel lost.
</p><p>
<strong>Chavonne Hodges, Founder of Grillzandgranola in New York</strong></p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTUzMzMwMS9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2NjM4ODM2Mn0.taU1KBmingcwNtQGbx_sDvoqKDqBrj1wQkZUfN4RLZ8/img.png?width=316&coordinates=0%2C0%2C0%2C0&height=236" id="35ad2" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="dc123f1e7b44b1d2a3e99c38a02152fa" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="316" data-height="236">
</p><p>When Chavonne was 26, she was going through a divorce and struggling with a panic disorder. She knew she needed to do something to help herself feel better, so she started working out at a gym. While there, she noticed a serious lack of racial and body diversity, so she decided to create her own gym and exercise program that caters to both. The gym is called <u><a href="https://www.grillzandgranola.com/" target="_blank">Grillzandgranola</a></u>, and aside from physical health, it's dedicated to mental wellbeing and community collaboration.<br></p><p>
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Grillzandgranola has moved classes online and created a space for group therapy called FEEL Better. These free therapy sessions are led by a diverse group of mental health professionals and are designed to help Black, Indigenous and people of color cope with grief, isolation, and negative emotions during these challenging times.
</p><p>
<strong>Love Wins<br>
</strong>Kind, selfless acts have the power to change lives. It doesn't matter how big or small your act of kindness is, if it's thoughtful and genuine, you're doing it right. Not sure where to start? By joining <u><a href="https://www.pggoodeveryday.com/" target="_blank">P&G Good Everyday</a></u>, you can lead with love through your actions. Each time you answer surveys, take quizzes and scan receipts, you can feel good knowing that P&G will automatically donate to your favorite cause like ending period poverty, saving wildlife, or providing natural disaster relief.
</p><p>
<strong>Join us and #LeadWithLove.</strong> We know that even the smallest acts of good can make a world of difference.
</p>
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Budweiser cancelled its Super Bowl ad and donated the money to fight COVID anti-vaxxers
01.26.21
via Budweiser
Budweiser beer, and its low-calorie counterpart, Bud Light, have created some of the most memorable Super Bowl commercials of the past 37 years.
There were the Clydesdales playing football and the poor lost puppy who found its way home because of the helpful horses. Then there were the funny frogs who repeated the brand name, "Bud," "Weis," "Er."
We can't forget the "Wassup?!" ad that premiered in December 1999, spawning the most obnoxious catchphrase of the new millennium.
<p>And who amongst us hasn't lost a bet on the Bud Bowl?</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-proxy-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbWVkaWEucmJsLm1zL2ltYWdlP3U9JTJGTUNXZS5naWYmaG89aHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZpLmdpZmVyLmNvbSZzPTQxMSZoPWU5YTE4MjVkYTM2NWQ3ZDQ3N2YyNmRlYTEwYzVjNTkyODIwZGRlYjIzNGQzNTVkNzhiNzA2NjVjOTc3MjQ0ODMmc2l6ZT05ODB4JmM9MzE0NjUyMjgzMCIsImV4cGlyZXNfYXQiOjE2NTYxNjg2NDZ9.JVsE5a0cVMeHnI-gYPG4DI8-FLl_6vu_ZB72_mlTWqY/img.jpg" id="cb4fd" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="5765504e9ee0a3e082cb702081bc7e96">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="Add Photo Credit...">
<a href="https://i.gifer.com/MCWe.gif" target="_blank">i.gifer.com</a>
</small>
</p><p>However, when you turn on the TV on February 7 to watch Tom Brady's Buccaneers go up against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs, you won't find a 30-second TV spot from Budweiser beer.<br></p><p>Instead, the beer's parent company, Anheuser-Busch InBev, has decided to donate portions of its advertising budget this year to the Ad Council, a nonprofit heading a $50 million campaign to fight back against COVID-19 vaccine skepticism.</p><p>The current cost of a 30-second TV ad during the Super Bowl on CBS is roughly $5.5 million.</p><p>The decision comes at a time when shares of AB InBev <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2021/01/25/super-bowl-budweiser-to-sit-out-the-big-game-fund-covid-vaccine-ads.html" target="_blank">have fallen 14.5%</a> over the past year. Although at-home beer consumption has risen during the pandemic, COVID-19 has drastically reduced the sales of alcohol in bars and at sporting events.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTUzMzc5Mi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MTIyNzUwNH0.3a9x3n4PFxrbvVh0XI6Yd8EFeho9bN-gGUuhxxQWEcU/img.jpg?width=980" id="f9a3c" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a93779f6abeeb5ff743c097f0d88d414" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="627" data-height="527">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="Add Photo Credit..."><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jessicafm/246707351/in/photolist-nNrv2-9XoYim" target="_blank">via Jessica Merz / Flickr </a></small></p><p>"For the first time in 37 years, Budweiser isn't airing a commercial during the Super Bowl. Instead, we're redirecting our advertising dollars to support COVID-19 vaccines awareness and education," a spokesperson said in a statement. "Working with partners like the Ad Council and COVID Collaborative, we're helping to safely bring people back together again soon.<br></p><p>Who knew that America's most iconic beer would one day lead the fight against anti-vaxxers?</p><p>In the run-up to the big game, the beer brand has created a 90-second online pro-vaccination ad voiced by "The Office" star Rashida Jones. In the ad, Jones urges viewers to "turn our strength into hope" while "Lean on Me" plays in the background.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-youtube">
<span style="display:block;position:relative;padding-top:56.25%;" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="1e31ff60fd60b6feecf0237834b1d052"><iframe type="lazy-iframe" data-runner-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/on04UnEzCt8?rel=0" width="100%" height="auto" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;"></iframe></span>
<small class="image-media media-caption" placeholder="Add Photo Caption...">Bigger Picture | Budweiser Super Bowl Commercial</small>
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="Add Photo Credit...">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=on04UnEzCt8&ab_channel=Budweiser" target="_blank">www.youtube.com</a>
</small>
</p><p><a href="https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/hsph-in-the-news/covid-collaborative-ad-council-launch-vaccine-education-campaign/" target="_blank">Last November,</a> the Ad Council and COVID Collaborative, a coalition of experts in health, education, and the economy, launched the vaccine education campaign<br></p><p>At the time, polls showed that 40% of Americans were not confident in a potential vaccine. That level of vaccine skepticism could seriously endanger any chance of a full recovery.</p><p>"Frankly, this is the biggest public health crisis we've ever faced, and we don't have time to waste," said Lisa Sherman, t<a href="https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/hsph-in-the-news/covid-collaborative-ad-council-launch-vaccine-education-campaign/" target="_blank">he group's chief executive. </a>"We're working in advance so that once those vaccines are proven to be safe and approved by all the right people, we're ready to go."</p><p>The Ad Council launched a similar campaign back in the 1950s when it was tasked with encouraging Americans to get vaccinated against polio.</p><p>Budweiser isn't the only Super Bowl regular to pull its ads from this year's broadcast. PepsiCo and Coca-Cola have said they won't be running ads during the broadcast. Although Pepsi will be sponsoring the halftime show.</p>
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Minnesota kindergarten teacher explains why she's refusing to take time off during chemotherapy
01.28.21
via Good Morning America
Anyone who's an educator knows that teaching is about a lot more than a paycheck. "Teaching is not a job, but a way of life, a lens by which I see the world, and I can't imagine a life that did not include the ups and downs of changing and being changed by other people," Amber Chandler writes in Education Week.
So it's no surprise that Kelly Klein, 54, who's taught at Falcon Heights Elementary in Falcon Heights, Minnesota, for the past 32 years still teaches her kindergarten class even as she is being treated for stage-3 ovarian cancer.
Her class is learning remotely due to the COIVD-19 pandemic, so she is able to continue doing what she loves from her computer at M Health Fairview Lakes Medical Center in Wyoming, Minnesota, even while undergoing chemotherapy.
<p>"I'm going to make the most of my time," Klein told "<a href="https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/living/story/kindergarten-teacher-continues-teach-virtually-chemotherapy-2nd-cancer-75054946" target="_blank">Good Morning America.</a>" "I don't take anything for granted."</p><div class="rm-embed embed-media"><iframe allowfullscreen="" height="360" scrolling="no" src="https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/video/embed/75260661" style="border:none;" width="640"></iframe></div><p>Klein battled cancer five years ago and had to take off about six months due to treatments. But this time, she swore she wouldn't let that happen again. For Klein, teaching gives her the ability to keep her spirits up in a depressing situation.<br></p><p>"Teaching 5-year-olds I always say is like going to Disney World. Everything is exciting and they're so excited about everything that it gets me excited," said Klein. "When you're at chemo and you're around a lot of sick people, it's kind of a depressing place to be. For me, to be around 5-year-olds during that time, it's like a slice of normalcy in an abnormal environment."</p><p>Klein told <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/kelly-klein-kindergarten-teacher-virtual-classes-chemotherapy/" target="_blank">CBS News</a> that her students give her strength. "It's real easy to go down the 'Why me?' — and I think if I didn't have five-year-olds to teach every day, I would spend a lot of time thinking about that," Klein said.</p><p>She also hopes that by continuing to teach she can show her students and their families that even with cancer, people can continue to live.</p><div id="6a4fd" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d78c946817d872b5506a8f7fd3407879"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet twitter-custom-tweet" data-twitter-tweet-id="1353447549382893569" data-partner="rebelmouse"><div style="margin:1em 0">As elementary school teacher Kelly Klein undergoes cancer treatment for a second time, she’s finding strength from… https://t.co/pQUxfbAx8T</div> — NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt (@NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt)<a href="https://twitter.com/NBCNightlyNews/statuses/1353447549382893569">1611522016.0</a></blockquote></div><p>After the mother of two learned she had cancer last summer, she pleaded with her principal Beth Behnke to stay on the job. "Please don't make me take a leave," she told Behnke who was "not surprised because of who she is as a person and what teaching means to her. It's her tapestry."<br></p><p>"She's a very beloved teacher and she deserves it because she's the type of teacher who shows up every year," Behnke said of Klein. "And what she's doing is part of living in our world, just helping kids manage through lots of situational things that don't have to define us but are part of our lived experience."</p><p>Receiving a cancer diagnosis has to be completely devastating. But two doctors from Stanford have noticed that one of the most important factors in recovery is maintaining the desire to continue living. "Patients with positive attitudes are better able to cope with disease-related problems and may respond better to therapy," Ernest H. Rosenbaum, M.D. and Isadora R.<a href="https://med.stanford.edu/survivingcancer/cancers-existential-questions/cancer-will-to-live.html" target="_blank"> Rosenbaum, M.A. writes.</a></p><p>Klein's decision to continue teaching may mean a lot more than finding fulfillment in a tough situation, it could prolong her life.</p>
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