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Kindness Week takes place every November, encouraging individuals to commit to acts of compassion and charity. Originating from a 1997 Declaration of Kindness, this observance inspires a global movement towards empathy. Join in by donating, volunteering, or simply extending a helping hand to those around you.
Want to sponsor Kindness Week? Learn how
History of Kindness Week
Kindness Week first began as a week of observation by the World Kindness Movement. A group of associations and institutions based in countries like Thailand, England, Australia, and America came together because of their combined dedication to promoting kindness in society. The initial days of the World Kindness Movement started from this event. They created the written declaration of their inception, which stated that the movement pledges to build a kinder and more compassionate world. It was only natural that they would help launch the inaugural World Kindness Week in 1997.
We observe World Kindness Week to highlight good deeds in our communities. Acts of kindness and goodwill are common threads that bind us. This week has become globally recognized and is now widely celebrated everywhere. Participants from across the world come together to perform acts of kindness. The sole purpose of this week is to focus on the positivity that surrounds us every day. It’s a week to learn, teach, and share our kindness with others.
The root of the word ‘kindness’ originates from the Old English word ‘kyndnes,’ which is a derivative from the Middle English word ‘kindenes,’ a word for courtesy. This week of kindness is observed with activities like dance mobs, concerts, and random acts of kindness for those around us. At the moment, World Kindness Week is an unofficial celebration; however, enthusiasts hope that the World Kindness Movement will soon achieve official recognition status by the United Nations.
Kindness Week timeline
The American Red Cross’ first major peacetime relief effort.
Following the earthquake, a soup kitchen is set up that feeds almost 300 people every day.
Volunteers turn up with more than 400 boats to rescue those stranded.
Humanitarian organizations work around the clock to reach those affected by the hurricane.
Kindness Week FAQs
When is Kindness Week?
Kindness Week 2026 runs from Monday, November 9, through Sunday, November 15. This annual observance encourages a global commitment to compassion and positive action.
What is the origin of Kindness Week?
Kindness Week originated from a Declaration of Kindness made by several humanitarian groups on November 13, 1997. This foundational event laid the groundwork for a global movement to promote empathy and charitable acts.
How many people participate in acts of kindness?
While specific participation numbers for Kindness Week are hard to quantify, studies by organizations like the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation show that approximately 70% of people believe kindness is contagious. Millions engage in various acts of kindness annually, from volunteering to simple gestures.
What is the World Kindness Movement?
The World Kindness Movement is a global coalition of non-governmental organizations formed in 1997, dedicated to inspiring individuals and nations to build a kinder world. It advocates for the official recognition of World Kindness Day and promotes acts of kindness worldwide.
How To Celebrate Kindness Week
Give compliments
Give a compliment to your friends and even strangers during Kindness Week. Compliment their new haircut, outfit, or anything you like about them.
Do a random act of kindness
Smile at strangers passing by, hold open a door, or give up your seat on public transport. Even these small gestures are a nice way of showing kindness to others.
Donate
Donate books, clothes, food, essential medicines, and even money to a charity of your choice.
5 Facts About Kindness That Will Blow Your Mind
Kindness is teachable
We are psychologically wired to help someone in need.
It’s contagious
Witnessing an act of kindness improves our mood, making us more likely to pay it forward.
Kindness makes you live longer
There’s 44% less chance of dying early if you are kind.
Serotonin source
Like most medical antidepressants, kindness stimulates the production of serotonin.
Kindness has anti-aging effects
Perpetually kind people have 23% less stress hormone and age slower than the average population.
Why We Love Kindness Week
Teaches us to be kind
We get caught up in our lives and forget to take a moment to think about others in need. Doing something good for others can be good for us too.
Reminds us that we are not alone
Kindness Week reminds us that we aren’t alone and that others are kind and care for us. The week also highlights the goodness that takes place every day.
Time to get creative
Kindness Week is the time to get creative with your ideas. Find unique ways to show kindness and express empathy.
Kindness Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | November 10–16 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2026 | November 9–15 | Monday–Sunday |
