By: Peyton McDermott
September 8, 2026
This week marks the 25th year since the tragedy of 9/11, bringing about a revitalized interest in change—particularly that which stems from our own community, interpersonal. Kindness, community, and changemakers all work in tandem in establishing a better future for the world. Through September 1st to the 11th, these first few days of the month are characterized by the “11 days of kindness” campaign, otherwise known as Pay It Forward 9/11. Established following the September 11 terrorist attacks, the movement promotes acts of service, connection, and opportunities to pay kindness forward in remembrance of a national day of unity.
This week, UPHS participated in our own demonstration of Pay It Forward week. On September 8th, Leadership introduced a “Positive Pops” event, handing out colorful popsicle sticks in Homeroom and having the student body write positive messages to hand out to peers. This day seemed to represent a more isolated activity, where choosing who received this message was up to the individual. However, following that, Leadership seemed to compensate with a far more inclusive one, wherein no student was left out of the Positive Notes exercise; we were each given a random name from a pool of our Homeroom classmates to anonymously write a personal compliment to, and received this kind note in the homeroom thereafter. Students were encouraged to discuss amongst themselves the sticky note they’d received, and how the message had made them feel.
More generally, the question posed to the nation this week is how communities can cohabitate with kindness: UPHS’s engagement primarily had to do with positive affirmations and the importance of charitable language. But how, exactly, do we pay kindness forward in the most impactful way? Plenty of articles surrounding this week suggest good deeds: giving out compliments more freely, buying or baking those close to you something, helping someone with a task, et cetera. Certainly, all of these are greatly important: even seemingly “small” actions can brighten someone’s day and can initiate relational change. Still, what about larger-scale impact—the decisions that seem tangibly influential?
Some of my own recommendations are among community service. Do your research on local or online initiatives that support causes you care about, and see what you can do for them; donate your old clothes or household items to small thrift stores; spread awareness on important issues; donate to or organize a drive, or buy someone in need a meal. Every act of kindness is a critical one, but encourage yourself to serve more expansive spheres of influence and carry yourself with compassion each day!
