Being kind.
That’s Scottsdale resident Marcia Meyer’s goal for the world.
To help teach the younger generation to understand how important kindness in the world is, Meyer launched a special organization that now impacts people across the country.
The Be Kind People Project is a nonprofit with a goal of building a generation of respectful, responsible, healthy, caring citizens and leaders. The staff primarily works with schools across the country, delivering relevant learning and youth development opportunities.
“We aim to inspire humanity, academic achievements, and healthy living,” says Meyer.
The BE KIND CREW travels to schools, showcasing positive living and enrichment.
Meyer says she really enjoys seeing the kids in action, learning and understanding how to be kind.
“It is rewarding to see the results. School behavior incidents decline by at least 20 percent on average in the first year, and the schools using BE KIND programs have shown an overall 11 percent improvement in standardized test scores as compared to other schools,” she says.
The Be Kind People Project also offers after-school programs, programs for students with special needs, and BE KIND Youth Leadership opportunities. On average, it serves 175-200 schools per year. There is also an extensive online reach across the country.
There are ways for the public to get involved.
“We love volunteers,” shares Meyers. “People who want to help short-term are always welcome. We also have needs for various professional and business skills to fill in the gaps and help with growing our organization.”
For Meyers, her favorite thing is to watch the organization blossom.
“The best part of doing the work is watching others grow, interpret, and expand the original concept. I think the biggest reward has been the young adults who come back and work with the organization as part of their first job.”