What started as a small gesture of kindness between two women has blossomed into a thriving online community with over 40,000 members.
Jen Justiniano began painting rocks as a way to cope with anxiety following a hurricane, posting photos of her creations on Facebook. At the same time, her friend Carrie Cerve was sharing positive messages on the platform, encouraging others to spread kindness. When Cerve came across Justiniano’s rock posts, she was inspired.
“I just felt like today was the day to throw out some kindness, throw out some reminders that you, as one person, can make a difference,” Cerve told Florida Today.
That spark led the two women to create a private Facebook group called Brevard Rocks FL. What they thought would be a small circle of friends quickly turned into a sensation.
The concept is simple yet powerful: members paint rocks with uplifting messages like “Be kind,” “Spread kindness,” and “Love,” then hide them around the community. Those who find the rocks often feel a delighted sense of gratitude, leading them to join the group and share their stories.
This growing community is a testament to the power of small acts of kindness and the ripple effect they can create. What started with a few painted rocks has turned into a movement that’s lifting spirits and spreading love across Brevard County and beyond.