Free community event to focus on kindness, hope, shared humanity

In response to rising political polarization and recent acts of violence, local organizers are inviting the community to come together for a program centered around unity.

The Greater Good — Remembering What Matters is a free 45-minute program at noon Thursday, July 10, at the Downtown Library, 200 N Dakota Ave.

Attendees will hear from a diverse lineup of community leaders and spiritual voices, including:

• The Rev. Chuck Cimpl, Catholic Diocese of Sioux Falls.
• Dr. Mohammed Zeeshan Qamar, nephrologist, Sanford Health.
• Irene Chang, South Dakota Contemplative Outreach.
• The Rev. Marc Anderson, director of spiritual care, Sanford Health.
• Sister Mary Thomas, Avera Health.
• Jim Holbeck, retired superintendent, Harrisburg School District.
• The Rev. Dr. Val Putnam, Presbyterian pastor.

The event is being organized by Putnam and Jennifer Kirby, who said they felt a growing need to bring people together for reflection and meaningful dialogue.

“I woke up after the tragic shootings of lawmakers in Minnesota and felt we needed to focus on something more foundational than politics — our shared humanity,” Kirby said. “This event is about reminding one another of kindness, connection and hope.”

The event is free and open to the public.

“I believe it is our common and shared humanity that unites us and allows us to reach out with compassion to others,” Putnam said. “That will — and does — make a difference.”