The Be Kind People Project Celebrates 15 Years, Raises $600,000 at Annual Fundraiser

The Be Kind People Project marked 15 years of promoting kindness, strengthening schools and inspiring students during its annual fundraising celebration, raising more than $600,000 to support its educational programs. FULL CIRCLE 2026 welcomed more than 500 community leaders, philanthropists, educators and supporters for an evening celebrating the organization’s history and the people who have helped advance its mission.

Guests enjoyed live entertainment and performances by THE BE KIND CREW, along with stories highlighting the organization’s impact and the partnerships that have helped it grow over the past 15 years. The evening’s fundraising success will help support BKPP’s character education and youth development programs for students throughout Arizona and across the country. The celebration also recognized several Arizona individuals and families for their contributions to education, philanthropy and community impact. Since its founding, BKPP has reached more than 8 million students.

Sarah Krahenbuhl, executive director of Phoenix Suns/Mercury Charities, received the BE KIND Award of Excellence for Community Impact. The recognition honored her commitment to community investment and the longstanding partnership between Phoenix Suns/Mercury Charities and BKPP. Kay and Walter Oliver received the Lifelong Commitment to Education Award, recognizing their enduring support of education and Kay’s decades of dedication to helping students learn, grow and succeed.

Rita and Peter Thomas, founders of the Thomas Foundation, were presented with the Intergenerational Inspiration Award of Excellence for their philanthropic leadership and commitment to creating positive change for future generations. The 2026 KINDNESS CIRCLE honorees included Char and Alan Augenstein, Erika and Russ Dickey, Laurie and Dr. Chuck Goldstein, and Bo and Charlie Whittenton. The group was recognized for its years of generosity, volunteerism and leadership.

“Looking around the room and seeing so many people who have been part of our journey over the past 15 years was incredibly powerful and touching,” Founder and CEO Marcia Meyer said. “FULL CIRCLE was more than a celebration of our past. It was a reminder of what we can accomplish when a community comes together to invest in our children and their future.”

The milestone event was co-chaired by Kelli and Lonnie Williams and Jenny Holsman-Tetreault and Colin Tetreault, whose leadership helped bring the celebration together. As The Be Kind People Project looks toward its next 15 years, the organization remains focused on equipping students with the skills to make healthy choices, build meaningful relationships and become respectful, responsible and caring citizens. For more behind this Frontdoor, visit thebekindpeopleproject.org.