'BE KIND' campaign launches with First Fridays event on Oct. 4

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- A campaign to encourage general kindness in the community will be kicking off this coming Friday with an event at the Gridiron in downtown South Bend.

"The BE KIND campaign is an effort to encourage kindness in the midst of political, social, and cultural divides so often filled with tension and discord," organizers said.

The event will take place from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and will feature games for all ages, free popcorn, music, community connections, and an opportunity to contribute to a community art creation.

“As a few of us who live in and love Michiana asked the question, ‘How we could make a positive impact on the community during election season,’” says Pastor Brian Durand, part of the BE KIND planning team. “We arrived at the realization that we all needed a reminder and an invitation to be kind to one another in a time when too often we are not. BE KIND is the sole focus of this campaign.”

Organizers say free "BE KIND" yard signs and bracelets will be available while supplies last, and T-shirts and car magnets will be available for a donation.

At 6:15pm, the campaign will officially launch with a call to kindness.

The campaign will continue throughout the month of October around Michiana, with outreach efforts at the annual Cops and Goblins event and Mishawaka’s Table or Treat.