Payday It Forward

Next celebratedMonday, March 29, 2027

An awareness observance on March 29 promoting kindness, support, dignity, and respect for young Black boys and men to combat racism and stereotypes.

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Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar TeamHave an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEMarch 29

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPhilanthropy

ORIGIN

Individual Initiative

FOUNDING ENTITY

Paula Long

FIRST OBSERVED

2011

HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

Paula Long, mother of Paylor James Daniels (nicknamed PayDay), created the observance after her son was murdered on March 29, 2010. She founded the PayDay Foundation in his memory and instituted the annual observance to promote kindness toward young Black boys and men.

Institutional Recordvia nationaltoday.com

INTRO

Introduction

March 29 is a day to spread kindness and generosity through Payday It Forward! This special holiday was created as a way for people to pay it forward by helping others in need, whether it's through acts of service, donating to charities, or simply spreading positivity. The concept of paying it forward has been around for centuries, but this designated day helps remind us all to make a positive impact in our communities and the world. So why not join in on this movement and make someone's day a little brighter?

TIMELINE

Payday It Forward Timeline

First Recorded Gesture of Giving

Dionysius II, a tyrant from Syracuse, requested an additional cloak from his subjects for a foreign guest and this act of charitable giving was recorded in history.

Benjamin Franklin Embraces Concept

In his letters, Benjamin Franklin, one of America's founding fathers, embraced the concept of "paying it forward".

"In His Steps" Novel Released

The novel "In His Steps" by Charles Sheldon asked readers "What would Jesus do?" and promoted giving selflessly to help others.

"Pay It Forward" Film Released

The film "Pay It Forward" popularizes the term, sharing a story about a boy who does good deeds for three people, asking them to return the favor to three other people.

First Pay It Forward Day

The first international "Pay it Forward Day" occurs, organized by Blake Beattie in Australia. It encouraged good deeds between strangers.

Payday It Forward Conceptualized

The idea for Payday It Forward was conceptualized, transforming the concept of "paying it forward" into an official holiday celebrated on March 29 each year.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Payday It Forward

Buy coffee for a stranger

Next time you're in line at a coffee shop, pay for the person behind you and ask the barista to tell them it's "payday it forward" day. Spread some kindness and make someone's day a little brighter.

DONATE

Donate to a local charity

Take some of your payday and donate it to a local charity or organization that is meaningful to you. Your contribution can make a big difference in your community.

LEAVE

Leave surprise treats for coworkers

Spread some joy in the office by leaving small treats or notes of appreciation on your coworkers' desks. It's a simple gesture, but it can really make someone's day.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer your time

Spend some of your free time volunteering at a local organization or charity. Not only will you be helping others, but you'll also feel good knowing you're making a positive impact.

PAY

Pay for someone's groceries

Next time you're at the grocery store, offer to pay for someone's groceries in line behind you. It's a kind and unexpected gesture that can really make someone's day and spread the message of "payday it forward."

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Payday It Forward is Important

Make a difference in someone's life

You never know what someone may be going through, and a small act of kindness can have a big impact on their day or even their life. By participating in Payday It Forward, you have the opportunity to make a difference in someone's life and brighten their day in a meaningful way.

Spread kindness and positivity

Paying it forward is all about doing something nice for someone without expecting anything in return. By participating in Payday It Forward, you can spread kindness and make someone's day a little brighter - and that positive energy can continue to ripple out to others!

Inspire others to do the same

When someone receives an act of kindness from a stranger, it can inspire them to do the same for someone else. By participating in Payday It Forward, you are setting an example for others and potentially creating a chain reaction of generosity and goodwill.