Let’s be honest. This world is full of a lot of depressing sh*t. But there are a few people out there trying to make it easier for us all by spreading kindness and positivity throughout the community.
The story of Ben’s Bells is one of both inspiration and personal tragedy. The organization was founded in 2003 after the sudden death of Jeannette Mare’s two-year-old son, Ben. The everyday acts of kindness people showed following his death helped Jeannette and her family cope and learn to survive without Ben. They wanted to do the same for others in their community.
The family started creating Ben’s Bells and leaving them in random places around Tucson — basketball courts, school yards, dog parks, you name it. Fifteen years later, Ben’s Bells are found in towns across the nation, including Champaign-Urbana.
If you find one of these colorful ceramic bells hanging around, take it home as a reminder to create a culture of kindness and spread positivity throughout the CU community. We could all use a little more of that.
For ways to volunteer or get involved with the Ben’s Bells project, head to their website.