#USA #Fairfax #SixDegrees.org #Footloose #Kevin Bacon

Celebrating a Milestone with Kindness

In an inspiring campaign to mark 40 years since the release of the beloved film "Footloose," SixDegrees.org proudly announced the completion of their ambitious project to build and distribute 40,000 essential resource kits across all 50 states. Founded by actor Kevin Bacon, this nonprofit has brought together communities to encourage compassion and outreach through their Building Kits by Kevin Bacon (BKxKB) initiative.

The BKxKB campaign showcases an ambitious attempt to not merely celebrate a film, but to use its popularity as a vehicle for social change. By partnering with various nonprofits, corporations, and local festivals, SixDegrees.org raised over $1.5 million in resources dedicated to helping those in need. Each kit is thoughtfully put together, often containing brand-new socks, personal hygiene products, free mental health resource certificates, and heartfelt handwritten notes of encouragement.

Kevin Bacon, the founder of SixDegrees.org and the film’s icon, expressed his joy about the initiative, stating, "It’s been really special to see this campaign come together, where folks are getting out and getting excited about helping each other and recognizing their shared humanity." This sentiment reflects the organization's commitment to fostering connections and support among individuals.

The campaign did not merely focus on distributing kits but emphasized collaboration with grassroots organizations, ensuring that each kit reached local communities effectively. By integrating with local needs, SixDegrees.org has allowed partner organizations to allocate their resources more efficiently while directly addressing the immediate necessities of individuals and families.

Stacy Huston, Executive Director of SixDegrees.org, articulated the core philosophy behind this initiative, stating, "Every kit represents a moment of kindness and a tangible impact on two lives—the person building it and the person receiving it." This emphasis on connection and community is what drives SixDegrees.org’s mission to create collective impact through fostering dialogue, understanding, and empathy.

Moreover, the campaign received vital support from numerous brand partners, including Bombas, Calm, Dr. Bronner's, BetterHelp, and Costco, whose generous contributions of in-kind goods significantly bolstered the campaign's mission. Additionally, corporate partners like Bell Bank and the International Monetary Fund provided essential funding and resources, reinforcing the collective effort to drive change.

In acknowledgment of the substantial contributions received, SixDegrees.org also expressed deep gratitude to sponsors who supported the campaign creatively and financially, including the Larry H. and Gail Miller Family Foundation and the Utah Film Commission, among many others. These partnerships highlight the significance of community engagement and support in addressing societal challenges.

As SixDegrees.org concludes its celebration of 40 years of "Footloose," the organization remains committed to building and distributing kits nationwide through ongoing corporate and community events. This dedication not only honors the spirit of the film but also continues the legacy of kindness and support it sought to promote.

Through initiatives like these, SixDegrees.org demonstrates clearly that the connections we share can indeed make a difference. The legacy of “Footloose” reaches beyond the dance floor and into the realms of collective action and kindness as community members come together, reminding us all that we are connected by only six degrees or less. For more information on how individuals can contribute to or get involved with the ongoing efforts of SixDegrees.org, detailed resources and networks are listed on their website.