The Impact of an Act of Kindness

Every day through my work in philanthropy, I witness acts of kindness that have the power to transform someone’s day or, in some instances, life. These moments — both big and small — demonstrate the power and impact we can collectively achieve when we approach others with compassion. While kindness often expresses itself through personal and emotional connections, one of the most compelling ways to understand its far-reaching impact is through data.

Research has consistently shown that kindness is not just a feel-good concept; it has tangible benefits. It can increase happiness, boost our self-esteem and reduce stress. Studies also reveal that the giver often undervalues their actions, while recipients perceive them as far more meaningful than the giver might realize.1 This means that even the smallest gestures — like a simple thank-you note or a thoughtful word, can create an impact greater than we expect.

Acts of Kindness in Greater Des Moines

I saw this firsthand on Giving Tuesday, when 380 colleagues came together to participate in acts of kindness. More than 450 notes were written for NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) which were distributed to individuals impacted by recent disasters in our state, and to NAMI volunteers, thanking them for their tireless work and dedication to our community. Additionally, hundreds of kindness rocks were painted with inspiring messages and images reinforcing the idea that: ONE message at just the right moment can change your whole day and outlook on life.

I also witnessed the power of kindness when a passionate group of Principal Financial Group® employees, Love in Stitches, shared their love for knitting by teaching others how to knit pieces that contributed to the creation of a community blanket that was later donated to a local family in need. It’s truly incredible how a simple act of sharing a skill can ripple out to create both emotional and material support for others.

The ripple effect of these acts of kindness has been nothing short of inspiring. Since Giving Tuesday, Love in Stitches has grown by nearly 50%, now meeting weekly to continue their shared mission. This is a powerful reminder that kindness is contagious — it spreads and multiplies in ways we may not foresee.

Studies back this up. In fact, research has found that when people receive an act of kindness, they are 278% more likely to “pay it forward”. 2 That means each kind act has the potential to set off a chain reaction, touching more lives than we could ever imagine.

As we reflect on these powerful acts of kindness, I invite you to join me in creating a ripple of positivity. Take a moment today to reach out in kindness — write a simple thank-you note to someone who may need it, whether that’s the custodial staff, the security team or a colleague who could use a smile. The truth is, even the smallest act can lead to a BIG impact.

Let’s make kindness contagious. Together, we can turn every gesture — no matter how small — into something extraordinary.

¹ Kindness Can Have Unexpectedly Positive Consequences | Scientific American, Dec. 2022

² Based proprietary volunteer data, February 2025

³ Doing Good and Feeling Good: Relationships Between Altruism and Well-being for Altruists, Beneficiaries, and Observers | The World Happiness Report, 2023

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Improving the Greater Des Moines (DSM) community through volunteering and community service is a priority for many. Thanks to community engagement opportunities and leadership connecting local businesses to causes that provide services to improve the region, DSM continues to be a place that provides support for those who live, work and play here.