As bad news constantly floods our media channels and lives, we may find ourselves cowering at the corner of our comfort spaces, dwelling on life’s imperfections and our fear of getting scarred. Truth is, we are all dealing with some kind of shit of our own, in varying degrees and forms. While giving may not come naturally in light of struggles, let’s not forget how the smallest deed of kindness can spark off a chain reaction of good works and idealistically, a better world.
Our final YouTube tribute coincides with this month’s #NKMGDoGood feature. Amidst the numerous viral do good videos on YouTube, one channel that stands out is Give Back Films by Kyle Oreffice and Josh Gibson.
Their drive to give back stems from recognising that they are fortunate enough to be in a better position than many people. Pay it forward, as they call it, having the intention to inspire others to head out and do some good as well. Remember what we were saying about sparking off a chain reaction of good works?
The chain reaction also works when the receiver of a kind deed feels moved and inspired to benefit someone else with a good act.
Being resourceful is important to Kyle and Josh. They collaborate with organisations that support philanthropic efforts or service based initiatives. This way, they get to reach out further and spread their message wider.
Let’s take a look at some highlights from Give Back Films and be inspired to keep adding on to the chain of good deeds…
1. Tipping a Hotel Cleaner $500
This video is as straightforward as its title. Many of the initial video by Give Back Films involved giving money to the less fortunate. This particular story touched us because we could relate to the challenges in making a living. There are many others who face worse circumstances but still persevere. The hotel cleaner was a young lady who was broke but found a job at the hotel and had been diligent and hardworking. The filmmakers decided to help her out by tipping her $500, which clearly meant a lot to her.
2. $200 Interviews With Homeless People
The homeless are often misunderstood and this video shows that everyone on the street has a story of their plight to tell. Give Back Films shares their stories so that the public can understand and help them better.
3. $500 to Bike Santa
This video features Earl Wright (aka Bike Santa), who repairs bikes and gives them to underprivileged kids for Christmas. Unfortunately, 100 of his bikes were stolen. When Kyle and Josh learned about his story, they decided to help him out.
4. $2,000 Sweeping Success Story
This video was a result of a lead that was provided by a viewer when Give Back Films posed a question – how would you #GiveBack? For this story, Kyle and Josh collaborated with Upstream Impact – a community organisation that combats poverty. Together, they helped Kia to get back on her feet by providing resources and customers for her new cleaning business.
5. BBQ for The Homeless
Give Back Films sets up a BBQ in the middle of a public park and invites the homeless for a meal. The spontaneity in the video is refreshing. Even warnings from the police did not deter them.
#NKMGDoGood is a campaign initiated by Nookmag to spread positivity and inspire deeds of kindness. Let’s do more good, shall we?
