March 29

Payday It Forward

An awareness observance on March 29 promoting kindness, support, dignity, and respect for young Black boys and men to combat racism and stereotypes.

Yearly Date

March 29

Observed

Internationally

Introduction

March 29 is a day to spread kindness and generosity through Payday It Forward! This special holiday was created as a way for people to pay it forward by helping others in need, whether it's through acts of service, donating to charities, or simply spreading positivity. The concept of paying it forward has been around for centuries, but this designated day helps remind us all to make a positive impact in our communities and the world. So why not join in on this movement and make someone's day a little brighter?

Payday It Forward Timeline

317 BC

First Recorded Gesture of Giving

Dionysius II, a tyrant from Syracuse, requested an additional cloak from his subjects for a foreign guest and this act of charitable giving was recorded in history.

1784

Benjamin Franklin Embraces Concept

In his letters, Benjamin Franklin, one of America's founding fathers, embraced the concept of "paying it forward".

1916

"In His Steps" Novel Released

The novel "In His Steps" by Charles Sheldon asked readers "What would Jesus do?" and promoted giving selflessly to help others.

1999

"Pay It Forward" Film Released

The film "Pay It Forward" popularizes the term, sharing a story about a boy who does good deeds for three people, asking them to return the favor to three other people.

2007

First Pay It Forward Day

The first international "Pay it Forward Day" occurs, organized by Blake Beattie in Australia. It encouraged good deeds between strangers.

2015

Payday It Forward Conceptualized

The idea for Payday It Forward was conceptualized, transforming the concept of "paying it forward" into an official holiday celebrated on March 29 each year.

How to Celebrate Payday It Forward

1 Buy coffee for a stranger

Next time you're in line at a coffee shop, pay for the person behind you and ask the barista to tell them it's "payday it forward" day. Spread some kindness and make someone's day a little brighter.

2 Donate to a local charity

Take some of your payday and donate it to a local charity or organization that is meaningful to you. Your contribution can make a big difference in your community.

3 Leave surprise treats for coworkers

Spread some joy in the office by leaving small treats or notes of appreciation on your coworkers' desks. It's a simple gesture, but it can really make someone's day.

4 Volunteer your time

Spend some of your free time volunteering at a local organization or charity. Not only will you be helping others, but you'll also feel good knowing you're making a positive impact.

5 Pay for someone's groceries

Next time you're at the grocery store, offer to pay for someone's groceries in line behind you. It's a kind and unexpected gesture that can really make someone's day and spread the message of "payday it forward."

Why Payday It Forward is Important

Spread kindness and positivity

Paying it forward is all about doing something nice for someone without expecting anything in return. By participating in Payday It Forward, you can spread kindness and make someone's day a little brighter - and that positive energy can continue to ripple out to others!

Inspire others to do the same

When someone receives an act of kindness from a stranger, it can inspire them to do the same for someone else. By participating in Payday It Forward, you are setting an example for others and potentially creating a chain reaction of generosity and goodwill.

Make a difference in someone's life

You never know what someone may be going through, and a small act of kindness can have a big impact on their day or even their life. By participating in Payday It Forward, you have the opportunity to make a difference in someone's life and brighten their day in a meaningful way.