This story was adapted from a nomination to the Reader’s Digest “Top 10 Nicest Places in America” contest: a crowd-sourced effort to uncover corners of the country where people are still kind and respectful in an era of cultural and political divides. If you know of a community, business, or nonprofit where kindness prevails, then be sure to submit a testimony or anecdote here before the June 5th deadline. (GNN will be one of the judges!)
Honored to host monthly “Dinner with people I don’t know” – where strangers become friends – awesome individuals! pic.twitter.com/j6Pp1ZuXPT
— Mayor Dave Kleis (@MayorDaveKleis) December 13, 2016
St. Cloud is only the 8th biggest town in Minnesota, but it might be one of the kindest places in America – and the city’s inspiring spirit of compassion is best exemplified by its mayor.
St. Cloud has become more diverse with newly arrived immigrant families moving into our community – which is why in 2015, Mayor Dave Kleis created Dinner with the Mayor to create a safer, more engaged community.
Every month, Kleis invites 7 unknown residents to his house for some open conversation and a home-cooked bowl of chili. People enjoy a simple meal, share their personal stories, learn about other people’s lives, and discuss issues of interest.
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