Observe Good Deeds Day

1. What was the impetus for Good Deeds Day?

I initiated Good Deeds Day out of the simple idea that every person can do a good deed, be it large or small, for the benefit of others and the planet. I believe that we each have a part to play in bringing about positive change, and every person can give of themselves according to their unique skill and talent, to make a difference in the world. I always say that even a smile that brightens someone else's day is a good deed, because this is the energy that spreads.

The simple idea that inspired me to initiate Good Deeds Day has brought together people from all cultures and backgrounds to actively engage in doing good. Good Deeds Day has grown way beyond me, it is now a global tradition taking place in 50 countries across the globe. Just imagine the impact! I always wanted to be a catalyst for positive change, and this is a dream come true.
2. How has it grown?

Starting in Israel in 2007 with 7,000 participants, Good Deeds Day spread beyond geographical and cultural borders worldwide. This year, on its eighth year, there are more than half a million participants in 50 countries across the globe extending together more than two million hours of volunteering. The circles are expanding and growing more and more each year.

The idea of creating a critical mass of goodness in the world is translated in practical terms on Good Deeds Day, so that individuals, businesses, and organizations can take part with concrete action items, such as feeding the homeless, renovating houses, caring for the elderly, helping the disabled, working with children, cleaning parks and beaches, and so much more. There are many people and organizations doing incredible things, and putting our efforts together on Good Deeds Day amplifies all the good that's being done already.

ABC Network partnered with us this second year in a row to showcase Good Deeds Day in its media outlets and in a grand kickoff event in Times Square, collaborating with leading volunteering organizations, and with thousands of projects taking place across the US and all over the world. In 2012 MTV International campaigned Good Deeds Day for six weeks on its online and TV platforms, exposing the message to millions of viewers and encouraging them to share their deeds on a dedicated website. From 1,000 projects in 2010 in Israel alone, Good Deeds Day 2014 runs over 8,000 projects, with two million hours of volunteering extended together on the day. That makes a huge difference in our world. Moreover, Good Deeds Day is a springboard for long-term projects, and people continue to volunteer throughout the year.

3. How do you see it expanding in the next few years?

The circles continue to expand as more people become enthused by the simple idea of doing a good deed to improve the lives of others and positively impacting the planet. More partnerships are created around Good Deeds Day, bringing the message of good to additional sectors and offering more opportunities for people to do good, as their heart desires. The goal is to create a critical mass of good together that reaches the tipping point, bringing about lasting positive change in the world.