KINDSTOCK Returns: Hillsdale Students Revive Music-Filled Charity Festival Celebrating Kindness
HILLSDALE, OHIO A community tradition built on music, generosity, and kindness is making its highly anticipated return this spring.
KINDSTOCK 3, a charity music festival organized by the Hillsdale Local Schools Kindness Club, will take place Saturday, March 21 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Hillsdale Local Schools, inviting the public to enjoy a full afternoon of live music, food, games, raffles, vendors, and community fun all while supporting a meaningful cause.
Admission to the event is simply a donation, allowing families and community members to come together for an exciting day that celebrates the power of kindness.
A Student Idea That Grew Into a Community Tradition
The idea for KINDSTOCK first began back in 2018, when Hillsdale student Logan Leab who comes from a musical family wanted to create something new that would bring different kinds of music to the school while also giving back.
“I noticed that a lot of the music at the school centered around concert band,” Logan explained. “I wanted to bring something a little different to the school.”
The original event was held in 2018 and 2019, but like many events across the country, it paused during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, several years later, organizers say KINDSTOCK is returning bigger than ever.
“This year it’s coming back bigger, and more people are getting involved,” Scarlett Raines said. “We’ve had volunteers step forward wanting to help organize it.”
Six Bands Set to Take the Stage
Music will be the heart of the event, with six live bands performing throughout the day, featuring a wide variety of styles.
Scheduled performers include:
The New Blackbirds
The Jimi Vincent Band
The Noah McDonald Quartet
Grey Street
Appalachia Ramblers
The Hillsdale Blues Band
With music running throughout the six-hour festival, organizers promise there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
More Than Just Music
KINDSTOCK is designed as a family-friendly community festival, with much more than live performances.
Visitors can expect:
Games and activities
Raffles and silent auctions
Community vendor booths
A unique “20th Century Museum” display featuring historical artifacts and interactive exhibits
Organizers say the museum display will feature locally sourced items highlighting both local history and broader 20th-century culture, giving visitors an opportunity to learn while they explore the festival.
Promoting Kindness Through “Kindness Kash”
Another unique element of the event is something called “Kindness Kash.”
“When a student in the building does a random act of kindness, a staff member might give them $100 in Kindness Kash,” Deputy Brian Martin explained.
Students can then bring that Kindness Kash to KINDSTOCK and spend it at a special table featuring items like candy, 3-D printed objects, and other fun prizes.
The program is designed to encourage students to recognize and reward everyday acts of kindness.
Supporting Hillsdale Families in Need
All donations raised during KINDSTOCK will go toward two important local initiatives:
Hillsdale Cares
The Apple Seed Falcon Fund
Both programs help support students and families in the Hillsdale community who may be facing financial challenges or unexpected hardships.
Organizers say the funds help provide assistance when families need help bridging difficult moments in life.
Students Proud to Carry the Tradition Forward
Members of the Hillsdale Kindness Club say they are proud to continue a tradition that reflects the spirit of their community.
“I think it’s really cool that we’re able to promote kindness in our community in such a visible way,” said Gracelyn Cutlip, secretary of the Kindness Club. “And we’re raising money for charity, which makes it even better.”
Treasurer Zachary Chapman said the event helps bring people together.
“KINDSTOCK is a great way we can come together as a community through kindness. It’s something that doesn’t happen enough.”
Student Allison Morgan added that the event reflects the values of Hillsdale.
“Hillsdale is the kind of community that always tries to give back to others. That’s what KINDSTOCK represents.”
And for Kennedy Fickes, the message is simple.
“Even small acts of kindness can go a long way and brighten someone’s day.”
Community Invited to Join the Celebration
Organizers say the event is open to the public, and they hope to see people from across the region attend.
Community members who wish to donate items for the silent auction or contribute to the event can contact the Hillsdale school library or reach out to Deputy Martin through the school.
With music, food, community spirit, and a mission to spread kindness, KINDSTOCK 3 promises to be one of the most uplifting community events of the spring.
And as organizers say, the goal is simple:
