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Spreading Kindness: Florida's Painted Rock Movement Goes Viral

August 19, 2024

Today's good news story comes from Brevard County, Florida.

In Brevard County, Florida, a wonderful movement is taking place, bringing joy and connection to thousands of people through the simple act of painting rocks.

Facebook / Coleen Carlson

What started as a small gesture of kindness between two women has blossomed into a thriving online community with over 40,000 members.

Jen Justiniano began painting rocks as a way to cope with anxiety following a hurricane, posting photos of her creations on Facebook. At the same time, her friend Carrie Cerve was sharing positive messages on the platform, encouraging others to spread kindness. When Cerve came across Justiniano’s rock posts, she was inspired.

“I just felt like today was the day to throw out some kindness, throw out some reminders that you, as one person, can make a difference,” Cerve told Florida Today.

That spark led the two women to create a private Facebook group called Brevard Rocks FL. What they thought would be a small circle of friends quickly turned into a sensation. Within weeks, the group grew to 1,000 members, and today, it boasts an incredible 41,500 members, with more joining every day.

The concept is simple yet powerful: members paint rocks with uplifting messages like “Be kind,” “Spread kindness,” and “Love,” then hide them around the community. Those who find the rocks often feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude, leading them to join the group and share their stories.

One of those touched by the movement is Coleen Carlson of Viera. During a particularly difficult time in her life, Carlson discovered a pink-painted rock with the word “Warrior” on it outside a doughnut shop. The message resonated deeply with her.

“I burst into tears and knew the rock was meant just for me,” she said. “I kept the rock for several years, until I had a friend going through a rough time too. I gave her the rock, and she cried with me. She moved away, and I have no idea if she kept it or passed it on, but whoever painted it has no idea how special it was.”

This growing community is a testament to the power of small acts of kindness and the ripple effect they can create. What started with a few painted rocks has turned into a movement that’s lifting spirits and spreading love across Brevard County and beyond.