ABQ Times

The University of New Mexico (UNM) is once again hosting its annual BeKind UNM celebration during National Random Acts of Kindness week this February. The event, now in its 16th year, aims to promote kindness and civility on campus.

This year's festivities invite all Lobos to participate in the Kindness Carnival, take part in the Teddy Bear Toss at men's and women's Lobo basketball games, and contribute to the Lobo Food Pantry.

The 2025 celebration begins with the free Kindness Carnival on Wednesday, February 12, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the SUB Atrium. That evening, the first teddy bear toss will occur at the Men's Lobo basketball game at The Pit at 8 p.m. A second teddy bear toss is scheduled for Saturday, February 22, at 2 p.m. during the Women's Lobo basketball game.

The Kindness Carnival will feature games, activities, a photo booth, music, therapy dog visits, and a donation drive for the Lobo Food Pantry. Participants who bring donations will be entered into a drawing for a grand prize that includes a one-month UNM parking pass and other items from The Jennifer Riordan Foundation and UNM.

During each teddy bear toss event, fans are encouraged to bring new stuffed animals to throw at halftime for a chance to win grand prize baskets containing gifts from local businesses such as Albuquerque Isotopes and Dion’s. These stuffed animals will benefit organizations like Albuquerque Police and Fire Rescue that support children in traumatic situations.

Additionally, this year’s event includes a food drive hosted by the UNM Health Sciences Office for Community Health's Health Workers Initiative. Donations can be made until February 14 at their office or UNM Happy Heart Bistro.

For more details about these events, visit BeKind UNM's website.