When we build connections on a foundation of trust and empathy, we can elevate humanity. Your efforts towards the greater good, no matter how insignificant they may seem, can make a big difference.
A tiny spark of inspiration can start a movement! Moments of authentic connection can bloom in places you’d never imagine.
“There are two types of people who will tell you that you cannot make a difference in this world: those who are afraid to try and those who are afraid you will succeed.” – Ray Goforth
We hope that the following stories will ignite your passion to lead with authenticity and take purposeful action.
- A company helps advance the textile recycling process
- A blind, deaf dog sets an extraordinary example of acceptance and empathy
- A group of young women is making lion dancing more inclusive
- A St. Bernard brings joy and companionship to an elderly woman
Positively Uplifting Stories | May 5 2025
A materials regeneration company is paving the way for sustainable textile recycling.
US-based organization Goodwill has partnered with Reju, a textile-to-textile regeneration company.
A rather concerning fact is that every year, 92 million tons of textile waste is produced globally, and only an abysmal 1% is recycled.
Reju’s mission is to tackle the challenge of textile waste at scale and enable the circular recycling of polyester.
Goodwill collects and sorts textiles unsuitable for resale and sends them to Reju, which creates new fabric out of old polyester. Reju uses a chemical recycling process to turn polyester waste into new textiles.
“Our process uses 50% less energy than is currently utilized to make new or virgin polyester. Also, it can be done over and over again,” said Matthew Allen, Head of North American Business Development for Reju.
Piglet Mindset Educational Program offers lessons on resilience, inclusion, and kindness.
Piglet may be blind and deaf, but that doesn’t stop him from making a lasting impact on everyone he meets!
Piglet is the star of the shows organized by Piglet International Inc., a nonprofit that supports and advocates for disabled rescue animals.
Through in-person and virtual classroom visits, Piglet inspires students to face challenges with a positive attitude and show empathy and compassion towards others.
“They are so excited. It is really life-changing and impactful for a lot of them. I hear from them years later about how impactful it really was. It’s really nice,” said Melissa Shapiro, founder of Piglet International Inc.
Young women are breaking gender barriers in the world of lion dance.
Lion dance performances are an integral part of cultural festivals and special occasions in Chinese culture.
Traditionally, women were not allowed to become lion dancers.
However, the Kwok’s Girls of Kwok’s Kung Fu and Dragon Lion Dance Team are transforming the lion dance scene in Hong Kong.
This group of four young women undergo rigorous training to maneuver the vibrant costumes. The lion dance has not only given them accolades and recognition but also enables them to cope better with adversities in life.
The Kwok’s Girls hope that their efforts will inspire other young women to break gender norms and take the traditional art form to new heights.
“Our role is to become the next generation of lion dancers, bearers of tradition. We want to prove to the world that women can do this,” said Lai Yun-ting, a member of the Lion Dance Troupe.
Huge St. Bernard’s unexpected bond with elderly woman is melting hearts all over the world.
Brody the gigantic St. Bernard dog used to sneak out to see his neighbor, Miss Sally every day. Her family is far away, and Brody proved to be a great companion to her.
Now that Miss Sally is in elderly care, Brody makes regular visits to see her. They even celebrated Miss Sally’s 101st birthday together.
The beautiful friendship between Brody and Miss Sally is a testament to how our pets can enrich our lives!
Have a Wonderful Week Everyone!
We bring you these positive news stories every week to remind you that no matter what kinds of nastiness you see on your screens or out there in the world, we need to remember that there are also plenty of tales of people being kind, doing good in the world and trying to make it a better place.
Opening a door for someone, helping someone get something off a tall (Or short) shelf at the store, or even letting them into traffic can make a difference to that other person who may need the proof themselves.
There is opportunity to practice kindness every day if we look for it. And every act counts. Have a great week everyone, and take care of yourselves.
Photo by Nam Le