When Rourke O’Brien moved from Seattle to Boise, something about the city struck him right away. People waved from their cars. Strangers smiled and held doors. Conversations in coffee shops and grocery store lines turned into genuine exchanges. Boise felt different—more intentional, more grounded, more kind.
That sense of quiet community spirit stayed with him. It wasn’t long before Rourke discovered a Facebook page started by longtime Boise resident Julia Grant, focused on the message of “keeping Boise nice.” Inspired, he reached out. Together, they transformed the idea into Boise Nice™, a 10-year, 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission: to identify, preserve, and enhance the things that make Boise so livable and welcoming.
Boise Nice operates without employees. It runs entirely on community energy, volunteer support, and donations. Every dollar goes toward messaging—stickers, banners, and billboards that encourage daily acts of kindness, shared responsibility, and pride of place. “This work has a fun factor,” Rourke says. “But it’s also deeply meaningful. Idahoans care about their neighbors. They want to protect what makes this place feel like home.”
You’ll find Boise Nice at community events all year: YMCA fun runs, SoleKIDS races, Girls on the Run, the City of Boise’s Earth Day Celebration, Savor Idaho, and Girl Scout programs. At every event, the team offers Boise Nice stickers, shares stories, and invites residents to take part in keeping their city kind.
The organization also values collaboration and creativity. Rourke frequently encourages residents to come forward with their own ideas for spreading kindness—whether through schools, workplaces, or neighborhood events. Boise Nice isn’t just about awareness; it’s about inspiring action through community-driven engagement.
A signature initiative is Boise Plogs, which encourages locals to jog, walk, or bike while picking up litter. “You don’t have to run,” Rourke laughs. “You just have to care.”
To get involved, visit boisenice.org or email info@boisenice.org. Be kind.
Things to Know…
1. The Goal
Boise Nice has been growing for years. Founders Rourke and Julia are on a mission to keep the “nice” part of Boise alive—through everyday kindness, awareness, and shared values.
2. Banners
In July 2025, look for 50 Boise Nice™ banners on city light poles. The messages—appearing in five languages—remind us: “You’re being nice if you let someone merge” or “You paid someone a compliment today.”
3. Billboards
With support from Lamar Advertising, 11 digital billboards across the Treasure Valley share rotating “Wave to a stranger—it’s a Boise thing” messages. Also featured on screens at Idaho Central Arena, JUMP, and the Boise Chamber of Commerce.
4. Petal it Forward
Launching in October—gift a flower, brighten a day. Simple, nice, unforgettable.