History of Ben’s Bells

Jeannette Maré took a tragic situation and chose to share her journey of healing and hope. She realized the universal need for kindness and connection, and has helped so many people to learn about kindness and how it can spread in communities. Be Kind. Simple words that create a powerful ripple effect. 

Since 2002, Ben’s Bells has grown from an initial Bell distribution to offer kindness education programming, beautiful visual reminders of kindness through murals, community engagement and volunteer opportunities, and so much more! 

Bell making began in Jeannette’s garage.

First Bell distribution – 400 Bells hung in Tucson to honor Ben’s life and to share the message of spreading intentional kindness.

Ben’s Bells received 501(c)(3) status identifying the organization as a public non-profit.

Opened first public studio in Main Gate Square in Tucson, Arizona.

Celebrated 5th anniversary – 500 Ben’s Bells hung in New Orleans, LA.

First Celebration of Kindness Day event hosted to share the message of Ben’s Bells and thank the community.

Kind Kids Program, now known as Kind Campus, piloted in four elementary schools, inspiring students to create a culture of kindness in their school communities and beyond.

Murals Program begins installing kindness-themed murals in public spaces.

1,400 Bells were hung throughout the Tucson community and the event was featured on NBC Nightly News “Making a Difference” segment.

Opened second public studio in the heart of Downtown Tucson.

First Team KIND rode in El Tour de Tucson.

Scientific Advisory Board created to support Ben’s Bells educational programming.

Celebrated 10th anniversary and hung 30,000th Bell.

Third public studio opens in Newtown, Connecticut.

Kind Colleagues program begins creating a kind and engaged workplace by strengthening the culture from within.

Shop KIND opens to offer purpose-driven shopping that impacts the entire community.

100th mural completed at Roadrunner Elementary School.

Fourth public studio opens in Phoenix, Arizona.

Celebrated 15th anniversary – 1,500 Bells hung in Tucson, Phoenix, and Connecticut.

Participation in Kind Campus programming exceeded 500 schools.

Celebrated 20th Anniversary at Celebration of Kindness and throughout the year.

The iconic “I am Tucson” Mural recreated with the help of the community to commemorate Ben’s Bells’ 20th anniversary.

Jeannette Maré receives the 2022 Founder’s Award at Greater Tucson Leadership’s Community Impact Awards