Some projects hand out kindness. This one hands over the mic.
We’re thrilled to name Young Men of Distinction (YMOD) as one of our newest Kindness Grant recipients. Based in Riviera Beach, Florida, this powerful mentorship program is launching a youth-led initiative this fall that’s equal parts leadership training, community service, and heart.
It’s called the YMOD Acts of Kindness Challenge, and it’s exactly what it sounds like: a challenge to do good, driven by boys ages 7 to 18 who are ready to take the lead. These young men will work in teams to identify real needs in their schools, neighborhoods, and local communities. From creating care packages for unhoused neighbors to offering free car washes for single parents, every act will be designed and carried out by the youth themselves, with mentorship, support, and lots of compassion behind the scenes.
With help from the Kindness Grant, YMOD will be able to fund project supplies, create custom t-shirts to build team spirit and visibility, and host community events to bring people together. One especially powerful element? The team will also build a public Kindness Wall that shares photos and stories from the challenge, sparking conversation and encouraging others to get involved. By making these moments visible, the wall becomes more than a display—it becomes a spark. It shows what’s possible and inspires more youth, families, and neighbors to carry the kindness forward.
As YMOD founder Jacoby Waters shared in his application, “This project is about more than kindness. It’s about light, love, and leadership from young people who are often underestimated.” That message deeply resonated with our kindness jury. This project doesn’t just support youth, it centers them. It teaches that kindness is a form of leadership, and that small acts can spark big change when they come from a place of care and connection.
The YMOD Acts of Kindness Challenge is a clear reflection of two of our core focus areas:
• Amplifying Voices of Youth by trusting young people to design and lead acts of service
• Building Thriving Communities through real, people-powered connection
We were especially moved by the way this project uplifts both the giver and the receiver. It’s about creating a culture of compassion and young people stepping into purpose. And about reminding the community, and themselves, that they are leaders, assets, and agents of change.
We’re honored to support Jacoby and the entire YMOD team as they bring this project to life. The challenge launches this October, and we can’t wait to follow along as these boys spread kindness across Riviera Beach, one thoughtful action at a time.
Want to follow along? Check out https://www.youngmenofdistinction.org/
Photo Courtesy of Young Men of Distinction