Compassion Resources
We created this space to share diverse resources on compassion and kindness. As we discover quality sources of information and support, we will add those to the page.
Random Acts of Kindness Day, Feb 17
Random Acts of Kindness Day, dedicated to promoting kindness and making a difference in the lives of others through small acts of kindness, is celebrated on February 17th each year.
We curated a selection of resources from the various activities offered by the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation, a collection of kindness quotes, to a guided loving-kindness meditation and our own expansive list of free kindness activities for yourself and others.
Make a Difference in the Community
According to a survey by bioethics professor Stephen Post and colleagues at Stony Brook University NY, "volunteering is an active form of hope." Post compares some of the benefits of volunteering with the vision Joseph Campbell describes in his bestseller Hero With A Thousand Faces: "finding the highest self in the act of helping others."
Volunteering and other acts of altruism and kindness are known to buffer stress and improve mental health in addition to making the world a better place.
VOLUnteering in the Greater Houston Region
We want to thank our partner organizations and extended network for their efforts in offering plenty of volunteer opportunities in the Greater Houston region, partly in collaboration with other community partners. Check out their websites (simply click on the logos above) for a match of your skills and passion. Whatever area you are volunteering in, know that you are making an impact and difference in your life, the lives of those you volunteer with, and the lives of those who benefit from your efforts. Volunteering is truly compassion in action!
““Volunteerism is the voice of the people put into action. These actions shape and mold the present into a future of which we can all be proud.” ”
Words from the Heart series by Pam Lewis
Explore Compassionate Houston’s board chair’s Words from the Heart, Pam Lewis’s quarterly insights, published in our newsletter and now gathered in a dedicated archive. Let her reflections spark fresh ideas and renewed compassion throughout the year.
In honor of Dr. James Doty, who passed away on July 17, 2025, we are highlighting his book “Into the Magic Shop.” Dr. Doty, a Stanford neurosurgeon, neuroscientist, avid compassion researcher, and NY Times bestselling author, tells the story of his “quest to unravel the mystery of the link between our brains and our hearts. From the moment in his childhood when a simple act of kindness changed the course of his own life to his founding a center to study compassion at Stanford University, Jim Doty's life illustrates how each of us can make a difference. We can make the world a more compassionate place. I’m sure many readers will be moved by this inspiring story to open their hearts and see what they too can do for others." —His Holiness the Dalai Lama
The Science of Awe Podcast
Explore the profound impact of awe on our minds and bodies with The Science of Awe, a podcast by the Greater Good Science Center. From breathtaking landscapes to stirring music, awe surrounds us in ways we may not even realize. This series dives into the research behind awe, revealing how it enhances well-being, deepens our connections, and even reshapes our perception of the world.
Street Lovingkindness Video Series
Watch mindfulness expert Sharon Salzberg as she shows us ways to practice lovingkindness in everyday life. Discover a fresh perspective on the world around you. By embracing kindness and widening your connections, you can uncover deeper relationships and find joy in the present moment.
Develop compassion skills with Compassionate USA’s FREE Micro-Course!
The evolving science behind kindness and compassion highlights the profound impact on our well-being and social connections. Compassionate USA introduces a variety of skills and concepts that promote more compassion-centered living with > six videos on their website. Or take their online, self-guided micro course to learn more about compassion in action.
Let's spread compassion and kindness together!
A collection of Free Random Acts of Kindness activities
Inspired by Compassionate Houston’s Project Kindness, where Houston Community College Honors students are paired with volunteer mentors 65+ for a 10-week exploration on all matters kindness, the program committee collaborated on a list of free Random Acts of Kindness examples for self and others. As the singer Katy Perry once wrote: "Kindness is always in stock.” Enjoy!
A four-step guide to
self-care by Global Compassion Coalition
The tools you need for greater peace, happiness, and resilience!
In the booming self-care industry, it can be overwhelming to sift through the countless advice available. To simplify things, the Global Compassion Coalition's expert Kristine Claghorn developed an 8-page guide based on her personal journey of exploring various methods and uncovering the most effective approaches.
self-care and resilience resources by Jung Center Houston
You are a human being. and you are not alone. The Jung Center Houston has compiled a series of brief videos about how to know when you're struggling and what to do about it. We all struggle at times, and COVID made it difficult for all of us -- particularly those who care for others, either professionally or in our personal lives. These videos offer perspectives and simple tools to help yourself and to know when to ask for help from others.
Compassion ThRough the Arts
Compassionate Houston’s friends at WiVLA (Women in the Visual and Literary Arts), collaborated with the Holocaust Museum on the exhibition COMPASSION. A total of 19 pairings of visual and literary artists explored this theme, so dear to our own hearts. Please visit WiVLA’s website to order the full catalog, which offers all visual and full written pieces. You can watch the virtual exhibition on the Holocaust Museum’s website here (click the arrow on either side of the image to enter).
Compassion Books, TED Talks and Exercises
We have discovered this rich goldmine of videos, exercises, activities, TED talks, books, and other resources.
With appreciation to the author of this collection, Leslie Riopel, a freelance writer&psychology teacher with a Master’s degree in Psychology.
Reference: Riopel, Leslie. (2019, April 29).
Feeling Loss and Grief
Our friends are invaluable sources of information. We are grateful for Compassionate Houston’s close friend Pamela Kennedy who shared some beautiful and valuable thoughts about fully feeling loss and grief, which seems to be around a lot these days.
We hope the excerpt below will help you or a friend on your grief journey.
The Roots of Compassion by Prof. keltner
Published by the GGSC UC Berkeley, a partner of the Charter for Compassion, Professor Keltner takes a look at the roots and benefits of compassion.
The post includes a link to science-based activities cultivating compassion.
The short article ends with a YouTube recording on Heroic Compassion and Altruism by Dr. Paul Ekman, a pioneer in research on emotions.
Finding Freedom Wherever You Are
Tara Brach, Jack Kornfield, and Trudy Goodman have put together a tool kit for a home retreat during times of uncertainty.
The three meditation and mindfulness teachers recommend to take time to nourish your spirit - be close to loved ones, connect (online or by phone) with acquaintances and friends, offer help to others and join online meditation classes.
31 Tips to Boost your Mental Health
According to the WHO, mental health is a state of emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, act, handle stress, and how we relate to others. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. Here are tips how to boost your mental health by Mental Health America, a nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental health conditions.