Hughes Charitable Foundation challenge offers prize for acts of kindness
JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — There are plenty of ways to show kindness and love to your community. And this year, the Hughes Charitable Foundation wants to reward those who are getting out there and giving back.
Between February 14-21, participants are encouraged to share a photo and description of their acts of kindness along with the hashtag #LoveYourNeighborChallenge. Celebrating the week that encompasses both Valentines’ Day and National Random Act of Kindness Day, the inaugural #LoveYourNeighborChallenge is celebrating the impacts that everyone can have on their community.
A winner will be selected by the board of the Hughes Charitable Foundation, and will have the opportunity to designate which eligible nonprofit organization will receive the $1,000 of unrestricted funds.
“When we sit down to select a winner, we’ll be looking for people who made a genuine sacrifice of time or treasure, got outside of their comfort zone to show kindness, and made an effort to forge a new relationship with a person or organization,” said Molly Hughes, executive director of the Hughes Charitable Foundation. Hughes added that she hopes to see participants of all ages get involved with the challenge, whether on their own or alongside friends and family.
“There’s no shortage of great ways to give the gift of kindness to others. Volunteer at a food bank or homeless shelter. Sign up to be a mentor to a young person in your community. Foster a homeless pet or take them for a walk. Craft some cards and treats to bring to a nearby nursing home. Clean up litter along a stretch of local roadway. Cook a meal for a family in need, or bring takeout to local first responders. Shovel someone’s driveway. The options are endless,” Hughes added.
All rules and procedures are listed in full on the Hughes Charitable Foundation website, as are all of the eligible nonprofits. Simply perform your act of kindness—large or small—and share it on social media. You must follow and tag @HughesCharitableFoundation on Facebook and Instagram when you share your post, and you must tag the nonprofit that you’re hoping to win the grant for. Individuals or small groups may make one submission for consideration during the week. There is no limit to the number of individuals who may participate on behalf of any given organization.
“We are so excited to see the unique and impactful ways that people from all over are stepping up and making an impact in their community,” Hughes said. “Regardless of your age, your abilities, your income level, any of it—you have the power to make the world a brighter, more love-filled place. We’re thrilled to have this opportunity to celebrate it.”
The #LoveYourNeighborChallenge begins at midnight on Monday, February 14, and runs through 11:59pm on Monday, February 21. The winner will be contacted and announced on or before Friday, February 25.
