Columbus Dispatch Hires Reporter Just for Kindness Stories

A major newspaper just hired someone whose only job is finding good news.

The Columbus Dispatch welcomed Kelly Tucker this week as their first-ever Kindness Reporter. Her mission? Tell stories about everyday people making their community better, one act of compassion at a time.

The position was made possible by the Center for HumanKindness at The Columbus Foundation, which partnered with the newspaper to combat what Tucker calls "news fatigue." With 24/7 access to devastating headlines, even journalists feel emotionally exhausted by the constant stream of bad news.

Tucker has wanted to be a writer since winning a competition in second grade for a story about an Alaskan Husky. She discovered her love for feature reporting in college, captivated by the spark in people's eyes when they shared their passions and experiences.

Now she gets to chase those sparks full-time in Columbus, where she moved two years ago from Cincinnati. Between visits to local bookstores and Metro Parks with her seven-year-old shepherd mix Kevin, she's searching for the helpers.

Why This Inspires

Tucker quotes Fred Rogers' mother Nancy, who famously said to "look for the helpers" during difficult times. That advice went viral around 2020 and continues circulating after tragedies. Focusing on people taking positive action doesn't just comfort us. It breaks through our paralysis and reminds us we're not alone.

The Dispatch is betting that readers need these stories now more than ever. Tucker believes global change starts with ordinary people doing extraordinary things in their own neighborhoods. The more we celebrate these everyday heroes, the further their impact spreads.

Readers can suggest kindness stories by emailing kindness@dispatch.com, ensuring the spotlight stays on Columbus's most inspiring residents.