At the most recent State of the City address, the City of Duluth presented Donvita Kennedy with the Good Neighbor Award, an honor that came as some surprise to the winner. "I kind of was speechless," says Donvita. "I'm still in disbelief."
Kennedy's neighborhood efforts have included collecting food from generous neighbors in order to create meals for her community. On Sundays and holidays, Donvita has provided meals to unhoused people, seniors, and others in need of a good meal.
After breaking her ankle over the summer, Kennedy found herself at home with time on her hands. "I just figured I would cook dinners and see if I could do something to help reach out to people," says Kennedy. "It was my way of uniting everyone... to stop the division."
This year marked the second time the annual Good Neighbor Award was given out. For those who are looking to create a change in their community, this year's winner has some guidance. "No matter where you're from, you can always make a difference... your possibilities are endless," says Kennedy. "Kindness is free."
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