#30SecondsOfLove: My Challenge to You to Do Something Kind in Your Community (Kindness Matters) by Jan Mostrom

Do you sometimes get so overwhelmed with the needs in this world that you just don't know what to do? I know I do. This past week I was visiting my dad in California. He lives near several areas that have been devastated by multiple wildfires. We listened to stories every night that were heartbreaking and so so sad, but as always there were amazing stories of kindness and courage as well.

One sweet story that I heard was a woman who went to local hotels and asked if they had evacuees staying there. When she identified a few families she just simply asked them how she could help them and what they needed. Then she went to some stores, bought some gift cards and a few items and shared them with these families she didn't even know.

So my challenge to our amazing community is to go out today and do something kind in your neighborhood. Don't overthink it, just do it. Include your kids, spouse and friends with something small or large. Remember your gifts can be so many things: time, talents or treasures. We all have something to offer.

We'd love to know how you're reaching out to others, so post your ideas and stories and use the hashtag #30SecondsOfLove. I can't wait to see what you come up with! And because I was just in Northern California, I'm posting links to help those fire victims if you are interested.

• The Salvation Army is taking donations to support disaster relief and provide meals to first responders and evacuees. Donors can give online or mail donations to The Salvation Army, PO Box 348000, Sacramento, CA 95834.

• The North Valley Community Foundation has two funds: The Camp Fire Evacuation Relief Fund and the Butte County Schools Fire Relief Fund. Donors can make an open gift to the school fund, or designate a specific use, like textbooks or school supplies. Donations are accepted through the foundations’ website.

• Monetary donations may also be made to the American Red Cross. Visit RedCross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

• The United Way of Northern California is taking donations for its NorCal Fire Relief Fund through its website and by text (send the message BUTTEFIRE to 91999).

Share your #30SecondsOfLove story below!