“Be Kind” kick-off in Newtown
Web Producer: Jackie Kent
TUCSON (KGUN9-TV) - A Tucson-based non-profit organization will soon be spreading kindness in Newtown, Conn.
Ben’s Bells Newtown is a chapter expansion of the Ben’s Bells Project, a nationally renowned organization that aims to spread kindness through giving. Volunteers paint and hang ceramic artworks throughout communities for strangers to find and pass on the compassion.
According to a news release, Ben’s Bells volunteers throughout the country distributed 1,000 bells across Newtown in early January as means of support following the tragic Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. The effort was made possible by thousands of donations to the Ben’s Bells Project.
"After helping distribute bells in January, I wanted to bring Ben's Bells back to Newtown," said Jennifer Avari, a Newtown resident and the Ben's Bells Newtown team lead. "Not only will this be an opportunity for everyone to participate in the spreading of kindness, but it's also a great lesson to teach our kids."
Ben's Bells Founder Jeannette Mare will help organize Newtown's new chapter next week, and Ben's Bells Newtown will open its doors on February 11.
Mare founded Ben's Bells in 2003 following the death of her 2-year-old son, Ben. She says she was able to heal with daily acts of good will, and formed Ben's Bells to spread the consideration she received. More than 30,000 bells have been hung in Tucson to date.
"This bell symbolizes our connection as a community and the power we each have to change the world by committing to kindness, one interaction at a time," Mare said.
To donate to the cause or find more information, visit the Ben's Bells Newtown Facebook page.
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