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04 May Share the Light: Join Buffalo’s “In Gratitude” Project

Posted at 16:53h in Community, In Gratitude by

Buffalo is currently alive with a citywide practice of “serious noticing”. Inspired by Ross Gay’s award-winning Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude, the In Gratitude project is an invitation to pause and reflect on the small, universal moments of joy that connect us all.

We have placed Gratitude Boxes throughout the city, inviting neighbors to stop and look so closely at the world that the ordinary begins to glow. Sit with the “boring,” the “daily,” and the “invisibile,” and share a simple observation or a deep, radical thanks.

Voices from the Community
Drawing of Fitz Books + Waffles In Gratitude Project April 2026

The responses we’ve collected so far are a beautiful testament to the heart of this city. One reflection shared at Fitz Books + Waffles (above) perfectly captures the spirit of this work:

“I am grateful to be here… I am grateful to know so many of the people here, and that I had a friend who is so supportive to have submitted one of my pieces for me. I am grateful for the coming spring, snowdrops, crocus flowers, & tulips, the sweet air & how it smells.”

Whether it is the scent of spring air or the support of a friend, every entry helps build a collective portrait of our community’s resilience and hope.

How to Participate

We invite you to visit one of our local partner locations to add your voice to the project. You can find Gratitude Boxes and reflective spaces at several independent bookstores and community hubs, including:

We will be collecting these handwritten reflections through the middle of June.

I am grateful that Buffalo is a city of poets. In Gratitude reflection

A Celebration at Silo City

All of these gathered voices will lead to a community catalogue of gratitude publication released at the In Gratitude Celebration taking place at Silo City on June 27, 2026. Details will be announced soon.

Take a moment today to notice something beautiful. We can’t wait to read what you find.

Go Bills Gratitude

The In Gratitude project is generously supported by Cullen Foundation, Erie County, Foundation 214, The Golden Goldman Philanthropic Fund, The Margaret L. Wendt Foundation, and M&T Bank.

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