Upcoming Events
Volunteer Info and Connection DayFri, Jun 20Lawrence Public Library
History and Social Movements WorkshopFri, Jun 20Kansas Community Center
Summer Kindness Music FestivalFri, Jun 20Sunshine Auditorium
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Get Involved: Volunteer with KindnessInTheHeat
As summer heats up in Kansas, so does the need for kindness and community support. If you're looking to make a difference in the lives of those in need, look no further than KindnessInTheHeat. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to providing cold drinks and basic supplies to homeless individuals, all while delving into the realms of history, social movements, and policy change.Volunteering with KindnessInTheHeat offers a unique blend of academic curiosity and hands-on community service. By getting involved, you not only have the opportunity to directly impact those who need it most but also to explore how historical perspectives can shape modern solutions to social justice issues. The website for KindnessInTheHeat is a welcoming space that beckons visitors to join the cause. Together, we can make a meaningful impact in the world. #KindnessKS #KindnessInTheHeat #KansasCares
Supporting Individuals in Kansas
As summer temperatures rise, so does the need for kindness and support for our vulnerable communities. In Kansas, one organization is taking action to make a difference for individuals through its outreach project.Since its launch in 2025, KindnessInTheHeat has been dedicated to providing essential supplies and cold drinks to those struggling financially in Kansas. This mission goes beyond immediate assistance, aiming to spark interest in studying history with a focus on social movements and policy change. What sets KindnessInTheHeat apart is its unique approach of blending academic curiosity with community service. By exploring historical perspectives, the organization seeks to uncover insights that can inform modern solutions to social justice issues. This innovative approach highlights the potential for meaningful change through a combination of learning and hands-on support.
Empowering Kansas Communities
In the heart of Kansas, a beacon of hope shines brightly through a unique initiative that seeks to empower communities through acts of kindness. KindnessInTheHeat, a nonprofit organization dedicated to spreading warmth and compassion, has been making significant strides in enhancing the lives of those in need. With a focus on providing cold drinks and essential supplies to homeless individuals, KindnessInTheHeat not only addresses immediate needs but also cultivates a sense of community and care. The initiative, which was launched in the summer of 2025, has already garnered support from individuals and businesses alike, showcasing the power of collective generosity. What sets KindnessInTheHeat apart is its innovative approach to service. By blending academic curiosity with community outreach, the organization delves into the complexities of history, social movements, and policy change. Through this unique lens, they aim to explore how past events can inform present-day solutions to social injustices, ultimately paving the way for a brighter and more equitable future. As KindnessInTheHeat continues to make a positive impact in Kansas communities, its message of kindness and empathy resonates far and wide. By engaging with volunteers, donors, and the local community, they are fostering a culture of giving and compassion that transcends barriers and unites people from all walks of life. To support this noble cause, individuals are encouraged to visit the KindnessInTheHeat website, where they can learn more about the initiative, stay updated on upcoming events, and find out how to get involved. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, everyone has a role to play in making Kansas a more caring and inclusive place for all. Together, we can create a ripple effect of kindness that reverberates throughout our communities, leaving a lasting impact for generations to come. Let us join hands and be a part of this movement towards a brighter, more compassionate future. #KindnessKS #KindnessInTheHeat #KansasCares
Our Inspirational Journey
Our Story
KindnessInTheHeat, a summer project founded to raise awareness and provide support, offers cold drinks and supplies to the less fortunate in Kansas. We are dedicated to connecting with the community and leveraging historical insights to address social justice issues.
At KindnessInTheHeat, our vision is to create a positive impact by spreading compassion and kindness. Through our outreach project, we aim to bring comfort to those in need and spark positive change in the community. Join us in our journey to make a difference.
About the Project
🧊 In the summer of 2025, I launched Kindness in the Heat—a grassroots initiative providing cold drinks, hygiene supplies, and compassion to individuals struggling with financial/living situations in Kansas. What started as a small idea turned into a consistent, community-powered effort to serve those most vulnerable in the intense summer heat. This project is about more than just relief, it's about dignity.
🌍 Start Your Own “Kindness in the Heat”
Here are ideas you can launch in your own neighborhood.
1. Cold Kindness Kits
Pack and distribute summer kits with water bottles, electrolyte drink packets, sunscreen, hand wipes, and granola bars. Add a personal touch with handwritten notes.
Start with:
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A backpack or gallon-size zip bag
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Dollar store hygiene items
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A few friends or classmates
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A central place (park, shelter, street corner)
2. Popsicle Pop-Ups
Hand out free popsicles or cold juice in public spaces where unhoused individuals gather—parks, bus stops, or food pantry areas. Keep it friendly, safe, and consistent.
Optional: Offer resource flyers with local shelter or food pantry info.
3. Backpacks of Hope
Collect gently used or dollar-store backpacks and fill them with summer essentials: water, snacks, deodorant, socks, etc. Host a “packing party” with friends or classmates.
4. Hydration Stations
Set up a cooler of cold water or sports drinks during peak summer hours (with permission) in high-need areas. This could be outside a church, library, or community center.
Bonus: Attach signs that say “Free – take what you need.”
5. Kindness Card Campaign
Invite others to write anonymous, encouraging notes to people facing hard times. Include them in every care bag or hand them out directly with supplies.
Great for youth groups, classrooms, or club service hours!
6. Meals with Meaning
Organize a simple cookout or sack lunch giveaway once a month. You don’t need a huge team—just a few friends, a table, and a little time.
7. Hygiene for Humanity Drive
Start a drive at your school, church, or library for hygiene products—then package and give them to local shelters or hand them out directly.
Items to collect:
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Toothbrush/toothpaste
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Deodorant
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Feminine products
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Wipes
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Soap/shampoo (travel size)
8. Kindness-in-a-Box Starter Kit
You could offer a downloadable PDF or a printable checklist with:
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A packing list
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Flyer template
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How-to-start guide
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Kindness Card examples
Encourage people to start their version of Kindness in the Heat anywhere!
🤝 Want to Join the Movement?
Invite others to use the hashtag #KindnessInTheHeat and tag your website or Instagram when they start their own version.
“You don’t need permission to be kind. Just a heart, a few supplies, and a mission.”
About
My name is Genevieve Herrera
My name is Genevieve Herrera, and I’m a proud Kansan from the small rural town of Arkansas City with big aspirations rooted in service, justice, and compassion. As a high school student with a deep commitment to law, public service, and helping underserved communities, I am working toward my dream of earning a J.D. and providing pro bono legal support to those in need. I’m half Costa Rican-American; my diverse identity inspires a broader perspective and sense of responsibility to advocate for others, especially those facing poverty or systemic barriers. This website reflects my journey, values, and community-driven purpose. It’s a place to share my experiences, passions, and the outreach projects I lead as I prepare for a future in law and hope to someday attend Harvard Law School.
Check out my other website for legal accessibility from professionals in Kansas
