DICKINSON — Legacy Square in downtown Dickinson was alive with energy on Saturday, Sept. 14, as area residents gathered for the third annual Kind Hearts Day — dedicated to celebrating compassion, community and togetherness. Organized by the Kind Hearts Project, the event offered attendees a full slate of free activities, food and entertainment, all in the spirit of kindness and unity.
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.
m., the square was a hub of activity, drawing in families, businesses, area entities and local first responders. The atmosphere was filled with the sounds of laughter, the hum of conversation and the joyful sounds of children bouncing on inflatables.
The aroma of grilled food and sweet treats from a host of partner food service providers played backdrop to a day that offered something for everyone. Children raced through obstacle courses, their faces painted with butterflies and superheroes, while teenagers and adults tested their skills on an electric motorcycle course, an exciting addition to this year’s event. Those feeling particularly lucky entered a raffle for the chance to win a sleek new electric bike.
ADVERTISEMENT The most popular of the days' offerings was Cold Stuff Ice Cream which provided free ice cream to attendees for the duration of the event. The free ice cream was made possible by the personal donations of Stark County Deputy Matt Keesler who paid $1,000, in memory of his late mother, as well as a contribution of $500 by the Gladstone Fire Department. Among the sea of attendees, deputies from the Stark County Sheriff’s Office, proudly wearing “Be Kind” shirts, provided more than just security; but served as a symbol of the day’s message.
Smiling and chatting with residents, first responders embodied the spirit of the event, reminding everyone that kindness is a cornerstone of strong communities. Stark County Sheriff Corey Lee, a vocal supporter of the event since its inception, took a moment to reflect on the significance of the day. “Kindness isn’t just about the big gestures; it’s about the everyday acts that bring us together as a community,” Lee said.
“When I see our deputies wearing these ‘Be Kind’ shirts, I see more than deputies and fire fighters doing their job. I see neighbors helping neighbors, I see teachers, coaches, volunteers and friends stepping up to make our community better. That’s what today is about — reminding each other that we’re stronger together.
” Mariah Marsh, one of the founders of the Kind Hearts Project, shared her thoughts on the turnout. “We’ve seen this event grow year after year, and it’s a testament to the incredible spirit of Stark County,” she said. “I couldn’t be prouder to be a part of something that brings so much joy and unity to the people here.
” As the afternoon progressed, families spread out across the green space, sharing picnic-style meals from local vendors, while children darted from game to game. Tables were lined with free food options — everything from burgers fresh off the grill to lemonade, the event gave an air of a true community festival. ADVERTISEMENT In one corner of the square, volunteers from the Kind Hearts Project sold “Be Kind” apparel — T-shirts, hoodies, and caps — to eager attendees.
The proceeds from the sales support local programs like the Backpack Program, Meals for Power Wheels and Hunter Safety, continuing the project's goal of making a positive impact on the community. Marsh said she was visibly moved by the day’s success. “This event is such a clear example of what happens when people come together with a shared purpose,” she said.
“The goal is simple — promote kindness and unity — but the impact is so profound. Seeing everyone here, whether they’re grabbing a meal, playing a game or just enjoying the company, it’s a beautiful reminder of how much good we can do together.” The origins of the Kind Hearts Project can be traced back to the Marsh family, who first brainstormed the idea as a way to bring people together to support the many needs of the Dickinson community.
What began as a simple plan to sell T-shirts and donate the proceeds to local causes has in three years blossomed into a full-scale event that continues to grow each year. She added, "It couldn’t have gone any better. The weather was amazing, the free food and free ice cream was delicious, the activities were fun filled, all 550 of the free backpacks were given away.
" Lee stressed the importance of continuing these efforts. “We all have the power to make a difference, whether it’s through volunteering, donating, or just being kind to one another,” he said. “That’s the heart of this day and what makes Stark County such a special place to live.
” ADVERTISEMENT As the event wound down in the late afternoon, the square remained buzzing with warmth and camaraderie. The sun dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows over the green space as families lingered, reluctant to leave. Children clutched their newly won prizes, while adults left with full bellies and a renewed sense of community it was clear that the Kind Hearts Day had once again succeeded in its mission — bringing people together to celebrate not just kindness in word, but kindness in action.
For more information on how to support the Kind Hearts Project or purchase merchandise to contribute to their cause, visit Bernie’s Esquire Club or Aloha Tan, or call (701) 483-4495..
