Our Mission

About Us​

You are the Difference is a kindness initiative to inspire and empower people to recognize and encourage kindness. The vision is for schools, businesses, and neighborhoods to flourish in kindness through programs and initiatives geared toward teaching the individual power each person possesses as a conduit of kindness.

You are the Difference programs believe in celebrating acts of kindness in both tangible and intangible ways. Therefore, You are the Difference Kindness’ Tokens celebrate such acts and also serve as a reminder that each person carries the potential to make the world a better place.

Need a little nudge? How about some KINDNESS FACTS?

Scientific research shows that kindness not only helps the recipient, but also helps witnesses to the kind act and the contributor.
Kindness makes you happier and more satisfied with life.
1.
Kindness makes you more energetic.
2.
Kindness increases your sense of self-worth.
3.
Kindness is good for your heart.
4.
Kindness slows aging.
5.
Kindness improves your mood.
6.
Kindness helps reduce the effects of stress.
7.
Kindness makes you feel good.
8.

Start experiencing the benefits of kindness today. It starts with you.
YOU are the difference!

Kindness Capacity Assessment

How would you describe your kindness capacity? Click your response.

I notice when others are kind to me.
Yes
No
I display acts of kindness to others, at school/work.
Yes
No
I support others when I know they receive unkind acts.
Yes
No
I create a positive environment so that others can be kind.
Yes
No
I contribute to a positive environment so that others can be kind.
Yes
No
I show compassion when others are hurting.
Yes
No
I show empathy when others are hurting.
Yes
No
I show others gratitude when I receive acts of kindness.
Yes
No
I hold others accountable to kindness standards.
Yes
No
I hold myself accountable to kindness standards.
Yes
No

Kindness
Capacity
Results

Dormant Kindness Capacity

Inactive or sleeping phase of kindness

Don’t be alarmed. We can help you move from the dormant phase of kindness to the active phase of kindness. Learn more

Ignition Kindness Capacity

The beginning phase of kindness

You are off to a good start. We can help you take your kindness to the next level. Learn more

Active Kindness Capacity

The mobile phase of being engaged with kindness

Congratulations! You are a Kindness Ambassador. You can encourage others to be kind. Learn more

Why Learn Kindness as a Character Trait

Education shapes human development.
1.
Learning that is centered in reflective and dialogical ways in social context fosters identity development.
2.
All knowledge is developed as a result of social interaction and the language which is used to convey meaning.
3.
Social interaction and co-construction lead to opportunities for expansion of knowledge.
4.
Promotes social and emotional learning (SEL) which is the process through which all youth and adults acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions and achieve personal and collective goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions.
5.
Provides educational equity.
6.