“The One Million Acts of Kindness” Bus Drives for Change

We love the story of One Million Acts of Kindness. The man behind the inspirational project, Bob Votruba, sold everything he had, bought a bus, and now travels around the country inspiring young people to bring love and peace to their communities.

“Our goal is to reach out to children, teens, and young adults when their minds are open and their personalities are developing,” Bob explains on the One Million Acts of Kindness website. “We hope to teach them kindness, empathy and a generosity for others. By living in kindness they will discover the happiness that they can bring to those around them, and ultimately to themselves as well. It is crucial to recognize the importance of being kind to others; adults and teenagers can set the example for young children to emulate. Nothing could be more important in the world than this.”

Bob mostly travels to high schools and colleges, trying to turn today’s young people into The Kindness Generation, inspiring them to be kind in even the most simple ways, like smiling at the people who pass by. “This message is for everyone,” he told the Good News Gazette. “I think this is what we’re all here for. It boils down to one thing – how many lives can you touch in a good way?”

On his website, you will find inspiring stories of people who Bob has inspired to do great acts of kindness, including a 6-year-old girl who donated her hair to a child undergoing cancer treatment.

He’s also inspiring other teens to spread the word: “What Bob did, any of us can do,” wrote 15-year-old freshman Susannah Meyer on The Huffington Post after spotting Bob’s bus in New York City. “He took a simple, personal concern and hope, got involved and spread the message. So find a cause or your own concern or hope that’s relevant to you… Surround yourself with people or groups of people with whom you share mutual feelings and passions and get involved. Rally other friends who want to share your message to help you. It truly is that simple. If you have a goal in mind, however simple it may be, narrow your goal and take your actions.”

Take a look at Bob’s funky bus, and ask yourself what act of kindness you can do today!