Kindness Saint Joseph returns for another year

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Kindness Saint Joseph returned for its second year, this time with Missouri Western State University playing host for the Noyes Home fundraiser.

This event is designed both to support Noyes Home’s mission of helping children in need and to celebrate individuals in nearby communities for their acts of kindness. This year, participation grew from 26 to 92 schools, enabling more community members to be recognized for their positive contributions from student essays.

One of those nominated for their kindness was longtime coach Russell Book, who was recognized Saturday evening. Book was touched that a student took the time to recognize the impact he had on them and their future.

Reflecting on his recognition, Book said, "I was kind of shocked, I'm sure, as most of them were. And it just, you kind of reflect a minute, you sit there, and you go, you have no idea the impact you're making when you're making it. It's kind of a good lesson for all of us to think, hey, this is, I can probably do some better things than I even think I can do."

One of the presenters of the evening was Lindbergh Elementary Principal Gary Murphy, who provided a challenge for attendees and people in our area.

Murphy emphasized the significance of the event, saying, "It's wonderful to be kind, because kindness is that pattern of behavior that happens day after day. Anything we can do to get the kindness revolution started, I think, would be a wonderful thing."

Throughout Kindness Saint Joseph, Noyes Home aimed to raise around $150,000 and had raised around $90,000 before Saturday's event.

To learn more about the Noyes Home and discover ways you can make a difference, click here to get involved.