Nearly four years ago, a wonderful idea blossomed in the mind of Michigan artist Andrea Zelenak. She envisioned transforming a humble, old bait and tackle vending machine into a vibrant tool for spreading kindness.

In 2022, Zelenak brought her colorful concept to life on Monroe Avenue in Grand Rapids, where she introduced The Kindness Challenge. This delightful vending machine offers three distinct types of kindness challenges, each color-coded to cater to different levels of commitment: the green challenges are simple, the yellow ones are a little more engaging, and the pink challenges invite participants to step out of their comfort zones.

The project was made possible through a grant from a supportive organization in Grand Rapids. As the owner of Inkcourage, her “encouragement shop,” Zelenak aimed to make the act of doing good accessible to everyone in the community. “The idea is that one act of kindness can create a wave of kindness in a community,” she shared with ABC 13 News. By encouraging people to perform even small acts of kindness, she hopes to inspire a larger movement of goodwill.

Fast forward to 2026, and the Kindness Challenge vending machine continues to thrive. It has traveled throughout Michigan, making appearances at art festivals and various retail and arts districts. Currently, it resides in Detroit, just outside Zelenak's store—a beacon of positivity for all who pass by.

The cheerful yellow and blue vending machine, adorned with playful orange butterflies, is accessible 24/7. “You can come up at any time and grab a mystery item from the machine,” Zelenak explained in a recent social media video. The concept is inspired by the butterfly effect, emphasizing that one simple act of kindness can set off a beautiful ripple effect within the community.

Functioning like any traditional vending machine, it accepts cash, coins, and tap payment options. Each item costs $3, and all proceeds go toward funding more kindness challenges. When someone makes a purchase, they receive an envelope filled with everything needed to carry out an act of kindness.

The challenges offered can be a variety of heartwarming tasks, such as giving a warm hat to someone in need, sharing a stick of gum, writing a thank-you note, or posting uplifting messages in public spaces. Since its inception, the machine has inspired thousands of participants. At a recent event called ArtPrize, Zelenak proudly revealed that over 3,000 acts of kindness had been dispensed, showcasing the machine’s incredible impact.

While the vending machine provides structured challenges, Zelenak hopes it also sparks individual creativity. “If somebody says something kind to you, you will remember that for maybe a week, or five years, or the rest of your life,” she remarked. “These words are really powerful, no matter what you do with them.”

Although these gestures may seem small, their potential impact is immeasurable. Zelenak beautifully illustrates this idea by referencing the butterfly effect: “When a butterfly flaps its wings in Texas, it can set off a hurricane in Japan. One small action can create a ripple and lead to bigger, unpredictable things.”

She emphasizes, “A simple act of kindness can make a huge difference and create a wave of kindness. Kindness is magic. Don’t underestimate it.” Through The Kindness Challenge, Zelenak continues to inspire a world filled with goodness and compassion, one act at a time.