SedonaKind is poised to launch its eighth annual “Season of Kindness,” an initiative focused on uplifting the local community and assisting those in need. The event aims to promote kindness within Sedona’s iconic red rock landscape.

On November 13, the Sedona International Film Festival will host screenings of ten award-winning short films at 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Proceeds from ticket sales and donations will directly support SedonaKind, with all contributions matched by an anonymous donor.

“SedonaKind thrives on community support, and this fundraiser is crucial for our future projects,” stated Jawn McKinley, a board member of SedonaKind.

This screening coincides with World Kindness Day, celebrated globally on November 13, an observance that originated from the World Kindness movement in 1998.

Joy Sinnott, a volunteer with SedonaKind, highlighted the relevance of the films. “Each short film was selected for its positive message, particularly poignant in light of recent elections,” she said.

One featured short is “Andy: A Dog’s Tale,” which tells the story of a puppy’s transformation into a service dog. McKinley emphasized the theme of kindness embedded in the story, illustrating how the families who train service dogs contribute to the welfare of others.

Funds raised during this event will support various initiatives, including personal hygiene care packages for homeless veterans, a service SedonaKind has provided for eight years at the Bert Black, Jr. Veterans of Foreign War Post No. 7400 in Cottonwood, and a Christmas celebration for the Verde Valley Caregivers Coalition.

Additionally, for nearly a decade, SedonaKind volunteers have knitted hats for local schoolchildren, creating over 5,000 hats to date. This year, they aim to donate nearly 700 hats to students at West Sedona School and Oak Creek Elementary School in Cornville.

In early November, Gratitude Trees will appear at various local establishments, enabling community members to express their thanks by writing messages on ornaments that will decorate the trees.

SedonaKind will also distribute “Kindness Charms” throughout the town. Each charm consists of handmade jewelry, featuring a heart and a tag that encourages recipients to “Take me home and spread kindness.” According to McKinley, over 9,000 charms have been placed globally, each one finding its intended recipient.

“We welcome anyone interested in promoting kindness to join our meetings, with no membership fees,” Sinnott added, inviting community involvement.

Tickets for the SedonaKind fundraiser at SIFF are priced at $12, or $9 for Film Festival members. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit SedonaFilmFestival.org or call (928) 282-1177.

For a comprehensive list of Season of Kindness events and involvement opportunities, visit SedonaKind.org.