887 residents recently joined Kindness Diaries author Leon Logothetis for presentations on the power of kindness. See photos and read about Leon’s inspiring message.

It was the keynote event of this month’s Kindness Project: on February 5 and 6, author, global adventurer and Netflix host Leon Logothetis was the special guest who gave voice to the message of kindness, and how its practice yields a bonanza of rewards.

Leon recalled his personal journey, leaving behind his London stockbroker job to embark on the first of several cross-continental journeys—challenging himself to walk from New York’s Times Square to L.A.’s Hollywood sign.

Along the way, he would leave cash behind—relying solely on the kindness of strangers. And learning to ‘pay forward’ each act of kindness.

Today, his experiences span cultures and countries, and form the framework of his autobiographical book The Kindness Diaries.

Leon’s evening talk, along with comedian Shed G, was the keynote event of this month’s Kindness Project, an initiative convened by Mayor Todd Jirsa and the Town of Estes Park. The Library is pleased to be among supporting partners that also include the Estes Park School District, the Estes Valley Restorative Justice Partnership, and several local businesses and nonprofits.

Many local students were in attendance, and many others attended one of two school assemblies. The Library Friends & Foundation made possible the sharing of hundreds of copies of The Kindness Diaries, which Leon personally autographed after his talks.

He summarized two lessons for everyone to reflect upon. One: kindness is free. And two: true wealth is not within our walls but within our hearts.

Audience members challenged Leon with a bountiful list of thoughtful questions and dialogue, including a young student who named Leon as his mentor, upon which the author challenged his fan with a project to deliver acts of kindness to all his classmates.

Program Services Supervisor Diana Laughlin recalled her favorite moment at the student programs when Leon asked students to identify their favorite teacher. One student explained, “She is my favorite teacher because she really cares about us and always helps us.” Leon asked all teachers to stand. Students gave them a hearty round of applause.

The Kindness Project shows us the power of collaboration and helping one another. Through the sharing of stories, we learn ways to solve problems, open pathways for learning, and build a greater sense of community. Those are goals of the Library, reflecting goals the community has asked of us. We’re grateful to the many partners—and to everyone participating in this month’s activities—for making it possible.

The Kindness Project lasts a mere 29 days. But from last week’s response, it’s clear the positive energy of this initiative will resonate for years to come.