Discover Tomorrow’s ‘Random Act of Kindness Bags’ at Copper Sky!

Handmade gift bags adorned by Maricopa sisters, ages 4 and 7, are set to be distributed at Copper Sky on July 4, 2025, as part of a heartwarming family initiative.

After consultations with city officials for safety, the surprise bags will be handed out rather than hidden. Residents can expect to see Marleen Huggins and her granddaughters moving between the park, pool, and gym during daytime hours.

This year marks 31 years since Marleen Huggins moved to Arizona on Independence Day. She plans to commemorate this occasion by aiding her granddaughters in creating 50 surprise gift bags, symbolizing each star on the American flag.

“It’s important to teach the kids to give without expecting anything in return,” said Huggins, 65, during a phone interview while preparing a Caesar salad in her kitchen.

The inspiration for this kindness project arose from a Facebook group dedicated to spreading joy through anonymous, handmade gifts in public spaces. Huggins recognized it as an excellent opportunity to bond with her young granddaughters.

Averaging ten mystery bags dropped weekly since their inaugural effort on June 7, Huggins described their offerings as “random act of kindness bags.” These have been placed in various locations including the park, library, hospital, and even near the historic California Zephyr train car.

The girls express their creativity by decorating one side of each bag with colorful drawings and cheerful messages. On the opposite side, a note reads:

Surprise! If you found this bag, it was meant for you.

Enjoy your gift!

Refill the bag with something fun.

Leave it for someone else to find — but keep the card so it can be reused.

Each bag contains small seasonal toys like water pistols, sunglasses, and beach balls, with a mini American flag added for patriotic flair.

On July 4, the trio plans to distribute another 50 bags around Copper Sky, with half hidden in the park and the other half near the pool in time for the day’s celebrations.

Originally from New Jersey, Huggins moved to Scottsdale on July 4, 1994, and settled in Maricopa in 2005. Three decades later, she continues to celebrate Independence Day in Arizona with heartfelt gestures beyond just fireworks.