K
indness is one of the most powerful acts in the world and Kendall’s Kindness is extraordinary. Kendall’s family has established an organization based on Kendall’s kind and loving spirit. They are hoping to spread her warmth and love throughout the community with simple acts of kindness. Kendall Maffia was a beautiful, adventurous and exceedingly talented young artist with incredible compassion and empathy for others. Even in photographs, her dynamic and vibrant energy can’t be ignored. On October 11, 2021, Kendall tragically lost her life to suicide. “Kendall was always passing on kindness to others, and we wanted to find a way to continue her legacy,” says Kim Maffia. Through Kendall’s Kindness, Kendall’s positivity and constant thoughtfulness for other people lives on in a variety of ways. “We have partnered with Random Acts Matter in St. Charles, The Boys and Girls Club, Batavia Popcorn Depot and several schools in the D303 school district to help spread her message,” says Maffia. “Wild Rose Elementary is wearing Choose Kindness shirts with our saying “Be the Reason Someone Smiles” on the back. They wear these shirts every month on the 12th in honor of Kendall’s birthday on June 12th, and throughout the year for special events. Hurley & Volk, a local orthodontist, wears “Be the Reason Someone Smiles” shirts every month on the 12th and passes out “Sweetness Cookies” with Kendall’s “Be Kind - Pass It On” logo for their clients and partnering dentists.” At the Boys and Girls Club, Kendall’s Kindness helps facilitate programs where the kids will write nice notes to someone and learn ways on how to be kind. The idea is to create encouraging moments to impact people who may be struggling or going through adversity, even if it may not be obvious on the outside. “Currently, we are promoting a new random act of kindness on the 12th of every month,” says Kim. “Then, those same acts of kindness get passed on and on. It’s not really about spending money; it’s just about being kind and thinking of people and doing nice things for people.” Last year to honor Kendall on her birthday the Maffia Family organized a 5K walk. They invited family and friends to come out and celebrate, and over 200 people attended which exceeded their expectations. The family has scheduled another 5K walk for June 9, 2024.
s s e n d n i K s ’ l l a d n e K
Kendall’s Kindness has also established two $1000 scholarships for a high school senior from either St. Charles North and/or St. Charles East. These scholarships have been established through the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley and will go to a senior pursuing an art related degree. As the organization grows, Kim hopes that Kendall’s sparkle continues to touch the community and create many random acts of kindness. “It’s always so nice to hear how others are passing on Kendall’s Kindness. It could be paying for someone’s coffee or just spreading a little cheer that day. A friend once told me she’s trying to be a kinder person like Kendall.” “The community’s involvement really helps us get through each day,” says Maffia. “It is helping, and it is impacting people.”
Sponsored by: my advisor & planner Winter 2023/2024 | GIVING BACK | 29
KCC_GivingBack_2023.indd 29
12/12/23 5:20 PM