The Power of Small movieCommunity Film 

Ben Lomond Film Screening Aims to Inspire Kindness

The Power of Small

By Blake Holiday

We’ve all heard about “random acts of kindness.” But what about intentional acts of kindness? That’s the subject of The Power of Small, a 40-minute documentary that follows Atherton resident Terri Bullock as she empowers a team of “kindness ambassadors” to make meaningful impacts in their communities. On Friday, April 18, 2025, the Ben Lomond Village Alliance (BLVA) will host a free, exclusive screening of the film at Park Hall Community Center. Afterwards, attendees will have the unique opportunity to participate in a live Q&A session with Bullock, whose inspirational kindness initiative has sparked change both small and significant.

The documentary, produced by Kristen Johnstone and directed by T.C. Johnstone, follows Terri and her mission to start a movement and spread positivity by empowering others. She asked 50 individuals to become ‘Kindness Ambassador,’ gave them a check, and encouraged each person to use the funds to make a difference in a way that mattered to them. From supporting local causes to assisting individuals in need, the film follows several of these ambassadors and how they made an impact in personal and intimate ways. Each project or act of kindness was tracked in a binder she maintained — a tangible testament to the ripple effect of generosity.

“Kindness is contagious,” said BLVA Board President Heidi Castagna. “By giving people the means to spread kindness in their own way, Terri created a wave of unstoppable positivity and her story shows how kindness grows when we give people the opportunity to lead with their hearts. We’re honored to share her inspiring story and hear directly from her at this special screening.”

The event is expected to draw attendees from across the San Lorenzo Valley and beyond, providing a meaningful opportunity for reflection and connection. With no set ticket price, guests are encouraged to contribute what they can to the BLVA, a local nonprofit that develops projects and events that enhance local infrastructure, preserve historical heritage, and encourage a thriving community.

Those interested in attending can RSVP online at the BLVA website at benlomondvillage.org and go to tdbff.org/tpos to watch the trailer. On Friday, April 18, doors will open at 6:30 pm, with the screening beginning at 7 pm, followed by a Q&A with Terri Bullock. 

“We hope this event will inspire people to think creatively about how they can contribute to the well-being of others right here in our valley,” said Castagna. “It will be a night to celebrate the good that can happen when we choose kindness over negativity.”

If You Go

The Power of Small
Friday, April 18 at 6:30pm
Park Hall Community Center
9400 Mill Street, Ben Lomond

***

Have story or event to share? The team at the San Lorenzo Valley Post welcomes your Santa Cruz Mountains news, story ideas, photos, and letters. Send us an email.

Sign up for our newsletter to stay connected to news and events in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Blake Holiday
Blake Holiday
+ posts

Blake Holiday lives in Ben Lomond and is the executive director and a co-founder of the Ben Lomond Village Alliance. Prior to his career as
an adventure travel guide and co-founder of Climate Ride, he produced two First Night Santa Cruz celebrations and is a fervent community
supporter.

Related posts