Editor’s Note:  The following was provided by the Be Kind Committee (photos by Josh Stoughton and Sara Kuhl).

More than 60 people walked in unity at the CommUnity Walk on Saturday, November 16 in Whitewater.  The purpose of the walk was to support unity and encourage kindness. 

City Manager John Weidl welcomed everyone at the Armory with snacks and a warm welcome.  Walkers enjoyed learning more from various vendors in attendance and then the group headed down Main Street to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater where they were welcomed by Dr. Dwight Watson, a member of the Be Kind Committee and former chancellor at UW-W.

Following are comments from John Weidl:

“As City Manager of Whitewater, I am honored to serve a community that recognizes the transformative power of kindness. In a city as diverse and dynamic as ours, kindness is not just an ideal—it’s the foundation upon which we build connections, foster understanding, and create opportunities for all.

Our mission is to embrace the cultural and educational opportunities of an increasingly diverse population. This commitment shines through in initiatives like The Community Space, where volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that no one in Whitewater goes without basic necessities. Whether it’s a warm coat, furniture, or a bag of groceries, these resources are given freely, reflecting the heart of our community: generosity without barriers.

Equally inspiring is the Adult English as a Second Language (ESL) program, a cornerstone of inclusivity in Whitewater for over 25 years. These classes do more than teach English; they provide a pathway to greater independence and participation in community life. They empower parents to communicate with teachers, workers to advance in their careers, and neighbors to connect across cultures. By offering childcare during classes staffed by bilingual adults from our own community, we further demonstrate our commitment to removing barriers and fostering growth.

As a Kindness Ambassador and city, our mission is clear: to lead by example. Kindness is not just in programs and initiatives—it’s in the daily interactions that build trust and understanding. It’s in the respect we show one another, the support we extend to those in need, and the spaces we create where everyone belongs.

This is how we grow stronger as a community—through kindness, patience, and a shared commitment to equity and opportunity. Together, we can ensure that Whitewater remains a place where all individuals can thrive, regardless of their background. Let us continue to embrace kindness as a guiding principle, shaping the future of our city and the lives of all who call it home.”

For updates about other kindness-related events visit the Be Kind Whitewater page on Facebook or search by #BeKindWhitewater.