Littleton-based Rachel's Challenge spreading a chain reaction of kindness around the world

LITTLETON, Colo. -- A little kindness is something we all could use more of, and something we could all share a little bit more of.

At schools around the world, students are encouraged to perform little acts of kindness by kindness chain.  Every time they do something kind for someone else, they get to make a loop for a paper chain that hangs in a hallway, classroom or cafeteria. 

Some of these chains get long, wrapping around buildings or tracks. Many of the schools hold big events where students march out on the football field or into the gym carrying the chain. It’s a remarkable site.

These “chain reactions of kindness” are one of the ideas used by Rachel’s Challenge to promote a climate of kindness in schools around the world.

Rachel’s Challenge was inspired by the writings of Rachel Scott, the first person killed in the 1999 shooting at Columbine High School. After her death, her family found a journal where she wrote, "I have this theory that if one person can go out of their way to show compassion, then it will start a chain reaction of the same. People will never know how far a little kindness can go."

From that simple quote, Rachel’s Challenge was created. Denver7 is committed to bringing you stories about schools that are accepting Rachel’s Challenge. It is our way of honoring all the lives lost at Columbine and bringing you stories about good things that are happening in our community.