Featured Good News Video

Gaming to save the world

A new online game aims to solve real world problems. CNN's John Roberts and Kiran Chetry chat with the game's developer.

More Good News Videos

Twenty teachers in four cities are among the first class of fellows in MusicianCorps, a new program providing regular paychecks for music teachers and a hands-on music program to cash-strapped public schools. NBC's John Yang reports.

Little Brother...Big Soldier

In a very personal "Assignment America," CBS News' Steve Hartman shares his personal bond with Lance Corporal Heinrich Soltow, a once-troubled youth who found a new life in the Marines.

Investing in Harlem

CNN's Anderson Cooper visits a Harlem restaurant that has created job opportunities for a neighborhood that needs them.

Actress revels in life’s ‘Precious’ moments

Her character may dream of being loved, but for Oscar-nominated Gabourey Sidibe, that kind of acceptance is now part of the her new reality. NBC’s Mara Schiavocampo reports.

Surgery on Sunday

Dr. Andy Moore started Surgery on Sunday to provide outpatient surgical care to Kentucky's uninsured -- for free. Since 2005, he and his team of volunteers have treated more than 3,100 patients.

Maternity ward nurse makes every delivery special

For the last 21 years, Conetta Stephens has bundled every baby born at Chicago's Mount Sinai Hospital into brand-new outfits. Now, the hospital is funding her efforts. NBC's Peter Alexander reports.

Art helps children heal

One devastated university in Haiti is helping children through art. CNN's David McKenzie reports.

Harlem School Aces Education

Harlem Village Academies, a charter school, was found in 2003 and has had amazing success rates in one of New York's toughest neighborhoods. Michelle Miller reports.

Being married to the Army a battle all its own

Due to her husband's multiple lengthy deployments, one Army wife decided to share the good, the bad and the ugly with other military wives in her increasingly popular blog, "Operation Marriage." NBC's Roger O'Neil reports.

Doc Treats First, Charges Later

A Chicago doctor has a policy: treat first, charge later. Doing as many as 800 surgeries per year, half of his patients are uninsured. Cynthia Bowers reports on this special dose of the American Spirit.

Stand and Deliver Fights Cancer

The devotion and determination of L.A. teacher Jaime Escalante were celebrated in the film "Stand and Deliver." His former students and famous friends are now trying to stand and deliver for him. John Blackstone reports.

Blind gamer beats Zelda

The online community helps a blind gamer defeat "The Legend of Zelda." WIS reports.

Making a Difference 101

NBC Nightly News regularly celebrates the contributions people make to help those in need in their communities, and now it's become a textbook of sorts for a Michigan middle school class on giving back. NBC's John Yang reports.

Temple Grandin: Why autism is a gift

(CNN) Temple Grandin sees her autism as a gift, not a disability. The professor at Colorado State University, who has become a prominent animal rights activist, spoke at the recent TED Conference in California about how people's brains work in different ways -- and how that's something that should be appreciated, not stigmatized.

Roger Ebert's Second Act

America's most famous film critic, Roger Ebert's voice was familiar to many until cancer took it away. As Dean Reynolds reports, Ebert has it back through the miracle of technology.

New Chance for Troubled Vets

Soldiers often face substance abuse or crime-related issues when returning from the frontlines. As David Martin reports, one judge wants to help distressed war heroes find a second chance back home.

The Return of J-Mac

Four years ago, Steve Hartman profiled teenager Jason McElwain, an unlikely basketball star. Now, Hartman follows up with the now-21-year-old McElwain for this installment of "Assignment America."

3-year-old snowboarder dreams of fame

Despite still struggling with the letter s, Wesley Muresan is easily the most popular boarder on Sundown Mountain in Dubuque, Iowa. TODAY’s Jenna Wolfe reports.

Tough wheelchairs needed in Haiti

Spencer Michels reports on efforts in San Francisco to design and build heavy-duty, low-cost wheelchairs for use in the rough terrain of Haiti and around the Third World.

India embraces solar solutions

Solar lights rewrite thousands of life stories in India. CNN's Mallika Kapur reports.

Books and burros

To the unaccustomed eye, a man toting 120 books while riding a stubborn donkey would seem nothing short of a circus spectacle. But for hundreds of children in the rural villages of Colombia, Luis Soriano is far from a clown. He is a man with a mission to save rural children from illiteracy.

Sightless sled dog dashes on

NBC Sports’ Mary Carillo tells the touching story of a mushing husky who lost her sight, but not her passion to pull a sled.

Training the unemployable

CNN's Tom Foreman profiles a Texas organization that trains the unemployable for construction work.

100-year-old doctor

Dr. W.G. Watson is 100 years old, making him the oldest known practicing physician in the U.S.

Orphan artwork

A former pro football player and his wife fund orphanages by selling children's artwork.

Handbags Help Feed Hungry

Two women, who met while working with the United Nations, turned stylish handbags into a necessity in the struggle to feed the world's hungry children. Michelle Miller has the story.

Bloom Box Unveiled

In California, one energy company said they have the answer to America's power problems with the bloom box. As John Blackstone reports, this idea is backed by some serious celeb-power.

Math Wiz Adds Web Tools to Take Education to New Limits

From a bedroom in the San Francisco Bay area, Salman Khan is using the Web to teach math and science to millions. Spencer Michels reports on how the non-profit Kahn Academy is providing educational materials through its free YouTube video library.

Old Man and a Tree

A 101-year-old man, Frank Knight, is about to lose one of his closest friends: a tree named Herbie. With Frank's help, the tree has lived to the ripe age of 240 years old. Steve Hartman reports.

The Bloom Box

Large corporations have been testing a new device that can generate power on the spot, without being connected to the electric grid. Will we have one in every home someday? Lesley Stahl reports.

'Embrace Life' goes viral

A PSA about seatbelts turns into a worldwide phenomenon. CNN's Josh Levs reports.

Hannah Teter, sweet on snowboards and syrup

With her maple syrup-supported charity "Hannah's Gold," the snowboarding champ shows what itmeans to be truly "world class." NBC's Chris Jansing reports.

'Magic happened' after she gave ex-cons a chance at new lives

Susan Burton is an ex-convict who now helps other women ex-cons get back on track.

Modern day Robin Hood

CNN's Leone Lakhani follows a charity who takes household junk from the rich and donates to the poor.

Same Cafe, Different Rules

One Denver couple had a different idea in mind when they opened up their restaurant. As Barry Petersen tells us, this restaurant has different rules leaned towards helping those in need.

Avatars tour King Tut's tomb

CNN's Errol Barnett looks at new technology allowing people to create avatars and explore ancient Egypt.

Doctor of Yo-Yos

A doctor of dermatology is recognized by the "Guinness Book of World Records" for having the most yo-yos in the world. As Richard Schlesinger reports, his house is a yo-yo museum.

Space man's great journey

The commander of the International Space Station, and Steve Hartman's travel guide for 'Everyone in the World Has a Story', reveals how he and his wife maintain a long-distance relationship.

Injury, adversity don't stop snowboarder

Kevin Pearce, a 22-year-old American, was a favorite to make the Olympic snowboarding team before an accident left him with severe brain trauma. But thanks to his family and his spirit, Pearce's will is stronger than ever. NBC's Kevin Tibbles reports.

911 dispatcher helps save son's life

When six-month-old Jacob Scott was found unconscious and not breathing, his mother dialed 911, only for her husband, an emergency dispatcher, to answer the call. KING's Drew Mikkelsen reports.

Haitians' New Beginnings

Young survivors of the Haitian earthquake have started new lives in Florida schools. As Kelly Cobiella reports, many of these children now feel safe, secure and loved.

Saving Students with The American Spirit

An alternative all-boys high school on Cleveland's hard luck Eastside is being turned around by a former security guard. In the three years since it opened, not one kid has flunked out. Jim Axelrod reports.

Pizza prodigy tosses pies

9-year-old Johnny Di Palma has been making pizza since the age of four.

NBA star's hero is mom

Dwayne Wade of the Miami Heat says his mother is his hero. She overcame addiction to become a minster in Chicago.

Obesity in America: One Community Fights Back

An elementary school's nutrition program is working to change the way kids eat.

Sean Penn helping Haitians

CNN's Anderson Cooper interviews Sean Penn, who has been in Haiti for almost three weeks doing what he can to help.

Making a difference at age 14

A charity founded by an American teen helps educate Rwandan girls. CNN's Alina Cho reports.

After 27 days, man pulled from rubble

Doctors in Haiti say that a quake survivor was pulled from the rubble of a building after 27 days. NBC's Miguel Almaguer reports.

Rebuilding Haiti, one person at a time

At a pediatric hospital in Haiti, a North Carolina doctor decided to make a difference despite the overwhelming "cauldron of chaos." NBC's Ann Curry reports.

From Mud Hut to Mansion

In the Mideast country of Oman, one poor man became rich from organizing a labor strike at an oil company. Now a father of 10, he tells Steve Hartman his incredible story.

$100,000 and one wish

British chef Jamie Oliver is the 2010 TED Prize winner. What will his wish be?

Artist, activist, mentor: The many faces of Will.i.am

Inspiring a generation with a rhythm all its own, the Black Eyed Peas frontman is making a name for himself without forgetting where he came from. CNBC’s John Harwood reports.

Selling Your Home for Charity

They say that "charity begins at home," but in one family's case, charity began with their home, after selling their house and downgrading to give the profits to charity. Mark Strassman looks at the spirit of giving.

New Vision for New Orleans

In the hometown of the Super Bowl Saints, there is a new vision for New Orleans. New eye-catching designs backed by Brad Pitt are replacing homes wrecked by Katrina. Jeff Glor reports.

Spirit Trickey

In her role as a Little Rock park ranger, Spirit Trickey, the daughter of one of the Little Rock Nine, teaches a personal, pivotal chapter in American history. NBC's Mara Schiavocampo reports.

The Grio's 100: Newark Mayor Cory Booker

While the 40-year-old mayor of Newark, N.J. is clearly a politician on the rise, what he says he really wants is for Newark to be a great city again. NBC's Brian Williams reports.

Bionic Breakthrough: Cutting-Edge Robotic Exoskeleton Allows Wheelchair-Bound to Stand and Walk

ReWalk is a motorized exoskeleton that enables wheelchair users with permanent lower limb disabilities to stand, walk and even climb stairs. The device is currently undergoing clinical trials in the United States. Good Morning America anchor George Stephanopoulos tried the suit and reports on how it's changing paraplegics' lives.

Islamabad park turned school

Ayoub Khan has run a school for underprivileged children for 25 years out of an Islamabad park. CNN's Reza Sayah visits.

Medical pioneer is 15 years old

A school science project propelled aspiring surgeon Tony Hansberry on to the Grio’s Next 100 list. TODAY’s Jenna Bush Hager reports.

Greening the urban jungle

Transforming her South Bronx neighborhood from urban wasteland into an urban oasis, environmental activist Majora Carter has become an unstoppable force in the green movement. NBC's Anne Thompson reports.

Veteran Gives Gift of Sight

A 76-year-old retired optician makes weekly rounds at a veteran's center, repairing eyeglasses for free. As Barry Peterson reports, this Vietnam veteran takes pride in serving his country once again.

Stepping out with Bill T. Jones

The acclaimed dancer and choreographer of the hit Broadway musical "Fela!" has informed audiences on race, politics and sexuality through modern dance for more than thirty years. NBC's Ann Curry reports.

Pakistan's female fighters

The Pakistani Air Force has enrolled the first batch of women to train as fighter pilots. CNN's Reza Sayah reports.

3-year-old gives prosthetic leg to Haiti

A 3-year-old Albuquerque girl donates her prosthetic limb to Haitian relief. KOB's Misa Maruyama reports.

Lifting Weights and Spirits

In the former Soviet State of Latvia, a 50-year-old man has always had aspirations to be a bodybuilder. As Steve Hartman tells us, a debilitating illness made his dream almost unachievable.

Sharing the faith in Haiti

A Haitian couple who lost everything in the earthquake is trying to make a difference in the lives of their fellow sufferers through small touches of comfort and a big dose of faith. NBC's Mike Taibbi reports.

Brazil's enchanted guitars

Children play guitar in one of the poorest neighborhoods of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Blind Chef's Magic Touch

One Chicago Chef can cook up a storm, even though she's been blind since birth. As Cynthia Bowers reports, this chef does it all while dazzling the best in the business.

With Obama's help, boy donates to Haiti

President Obama helps an 8-year-old Louisiana boy make donation to Haiti. KTAL's Amber Miller reports.

Healing Haiti's mental wounds

CNN's Ivan Watson reports on a Haitian psychologist who's helping heal orphaned victims of the earthquake.

Nurse, Haitian boy forge bond out of tragedy

ER nurse Gaby McAdoo is returning to the U.S., relishing her unexpected connection with a 5-year-old boy. NBC’s Michelle Kosinski reports.

From Poverty to Grammys

As some musicians prepare for the upcoming Grammy awards, it took one nominated group about 140 years to get there. Randall Pinkston has the story of one college gospel choir's journey to the Grammys.

Haiti Hero: Save and serve

In Haiti's largest slum, Bobby Duval offers young people coaching, tutoring and hope.

Nursing the homeland back to health

Seeing their country of origin in crisis, a group of Haitian-American medical professionals were compelled to return and offer help. NBC's Mara Schiavocampo reports.

Soles for Souls

An Alabama school student has been frantically collecting shoes by the box-load to donate to the victims of the Haiti earthquake. Michelle Miller reports in this installment of "American Spirit."

Pledging to play again

A violinist who survived the Haiti quake gets a surprise from Stevie Wonder.

U.S. adoption turns best friends into sisters

After months of adoption limbo, 5-year-old Tia was brought to the U.S. after the quake. But the cries of her best friend, NyKah, who was left behind, echoed in the hearts of Tia’s new parents. NBC’s Ron Allen reports on a happy ending for two little girls.

Madonna and Malawi

Alina Cho talks to Madonna about her efforts to help orphans in Malawi.

Americans step up to help Haiti

Americans from all walks of life – from celebrities like John Travolta to 9-year-old Connor Howard – have been opening their hearts and pockets for victims of the Haitian quake. NBC’s Mark Potter reports.

Blind Man's Pride

Steve Hartman tells us the story of a 78-year-old blind man who feels his way to work every day, who has accepted his disability and lives comfortably with his 13 family members in India.

Treating Haitian kids’ psychological trauma

Basil Jackson, a 78-year-old psychologist from Milwaukee, put his life on hold to tend to Haiti’s most vulnerable earthquake victims – nursing not just the physical, but also the psychological wounds. NBC’s Mara Schiavocampo reports.

Melody Gardot's Pain & Triumphs

She may have reached topped a key record chart in France and gained fans from around the world, but musician Melody Gardot tells CBS News' Anthony Mason about her chronic pain caused by an accident.

Astronaut's mission for kids

Astronaut Cady Coleman "gives back" by teaching kids, as she trains for her next mission. CNN's John Zarrella reports.

Haitian Hero Pays-it-Foreword

As Haiti attempts to return to normalcy after the earthquake, one family continues to help others after losing 4 family members. As Bill Whitaker reports, Haitians are living off the kindness of angels.

Tweets guide U.S. do-gooder in Haiti

Armed with just a backpack and BlackBerry, Alain Armand has become a lifeline for victims of the earthquake that crumbled the Caribbean capital. NBC’s Michelle Kosinski reports.

Returning to Haiti

Katie Couric reports on the "American Spirit" of 31-year-old Seattle resident David Pierre-Louis, who left the safety and comfort of his home to help friends and family in Haiti.

Parents bond with adopted Haitian kids

Among 81 Haitian orphans starting over in the United States, twins Ethan and Brecken are reveling in their new life with parents Aaron and Tanya Ramsay. NBC’s Mark Potter reports.

Haiti telethon raises over $57 million

A who’s who of entertainment gathered at the "Hope for Haiti Now" telethon, whose Web site, according to MTV, will remain online for 90 days. NBC’s Rehema Ellis reports.

A New Life for Haitian Orphans

Dozens of orphans who survived the disaster in Haiti have found new homes and a new chance at life, throughout the United States. Cynthia Bowers reports on this Road to Recovery.

Shelterboxes sent to Haiti

Former CNN Hero Tom Henderson and others send Shelterboxes filled with tools and tents to Haiti.

Outpouring of aid to Haiti unprecedented

Americans have donated $355 million to charitable organizations since the earthquake in Haiti. NBC's Brian Williams reports.

Haiti's miraculous rescues continue

A team of New York City police officers and firefighters saved two children who had been buried beneath the rubble of a two-story building in Port-au-Prince. ITN's John Irvine was on the scene as the pair were lifted to safety.

Students feed 50,000 in Haiti

Drake University students prepare 50,000 meals for shipment to Haiti. KCCI's Cynthia Fodor reports.

Couple gives wedding money to Haiti

A Minnesota couple donates portion of their wedding budget to Haiti relief. KARE's Joe Fryer reports.

One man's mission of hope in Haiti

Brad Johnson runs a local charity in Haiti that has a school, an orphanage and a medical clinic. Amid the rubble, he is distributing meals to earthquake survivors. NBC's Michelle Kosinski reports.

An unbelievable journey

Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell describes the incredible undertaking to bring dozens of Haitian orphans to the U.S.

Saving the children

CNN's Gary Tuchman tells the heartwarming story of six Haitian orphans who found a new family amidst tragedy.

Smiles and thanks for water

A makeshift camp for earthquake survivors on what was once a city golf course in Port Au Prince, now serves as home for thousands. Soldiers from the 82nd Airborne distribute bottles of water. ITN's John Irvine reports.

Disabled student shines on court

Developmentally disabled high school student David "Chubbs" Stillman on what it was like to hit one at the buzzer.

Haiti mom's miracle

ITN's Geraint Vincent reports on a little girl being reunited with her mom after she's pulled from her school's rubble.

Aid Efforts Bringing in Millions

Rapidly organized efforts to help Haiti have brought in millions of dollars in cash, food, water and medicine. From corporations to celebrities, people giving what they can. Randall Pinkston reports.

Vietnam vet reunited with "dead" friend

Imagine thinking you lost your buddy in a war, only to find out forty years later that he was alive. It's improbable and unusual, but a true story.

Haitians sing, chant, march

Amidst the destruction and devastation, Haitians come together for a peaceful march.

Baby survives under rubble

CNN's Ivan Watson speaks with Robert Penfold of Nine News Australia about a rescue that wasn't supposed to be possible.

Love lands after 'Miracle on Hudson'

Laura Zych and Ben Bostic were strangers on January 15, 2009, when they boarded the fateful flight that would become known as the "Miracle on the Hudson." A year later, they're in love.

Kindness amid disaster

Resiliency and acts of kindness from the Haitian people stand out among the damage and destruction caused by the quake.

Love in the Face of Disaster

An aid worker was trapped in Haiti under the rubble of her building after the devastating earthquake. However, her husband made a frantic dash across Haiti to save her. Michelle Miller has the story.

Couple crusade to help disabled dogs

NBC's Jill Rappaport reports on a couple who have devoted their entire lives to taking care of man's best friend.

Cow manure powers town

A Wisconsin dairy farmer turns cow waste into electricity. WAOW reports.

Iraqi refugee forges path for others

Once a refugee forced to flee her home in Baghdad following her husband's murder, Alaa Naji now helps other new arrivals rebuild successful lives in America as she has done. NBC's Ron Mott reports.

Student finds, gives away money in 'random act of kindness'

(KING 5 News) Laura D'Asaro was geocaching with a friend over the weekend when she found much more than she was bargaining for.

Everyone Has a Story

Steve Hartman will travel the world at random to prove that everyone has a story. Along the journey, he finds that although there are many differences, there are also striking similarities.

Clothing bank 'suits' those in need

A clothing bank in New York allows those who are down on their luck to don much-needed brand new clothes. NBC's Rehema Ellis reports.

Restaurant hires retirees

CNN's Pauline Chiou reports on a Hong Kong restaurant that puts seniors to work as waiters -- average age 66.

Everybody Has a Story Flashback: Soul Food

Steve Hartman travels to Camden, South Carolina to get some soul food from Miss Susie Lee.

Hershey School Alumni

Eula Webster and Dale Williams are both teachers at the Milton Hershey school. Dale says he wanted to become a teacher, after learning from his 5th grade teacher, Eula.

During cold, volunteers help homeless

As extreme cold has Atlanta residents seeking warmth inside, volunteers go outside to help the homeless. WXIA’s Bill Liss reports.

Former convict counsels at risk youth

Curtis Lee was a teenager in California in 1988 when his young life got sidetracked by violence. Now out of jail, he's making a comeback by counseling others. NBC's Lee Cowan reports.

A Soldier's Surprise

A soldier back from Afghanistan surprises his daughter at her Florida school. WJXT reports.

Basketball's Next Superstar?

At 6'10" and growing, Bubbles Anderson maybe basketball's next superstar. She's already taller than both Michael Jordan and LeBron James. Jim Axelrod reports that this teen is remarkable in more ways than one.

Hershey Sweetening Lives

Hershey's Chocolate founder Milton Hershey left his fortune to open a school for underprivileged kids. As Randall Pinkston reports, Hershey's gift is making kids' lives much sweeter.

Shiny shoe Samaritan helps senior

A conversation at an airport, sparked by shiny shoes, leads to an extraordinary good deed. WMAQ's Lauren Jiggetts reports.

Amputee pony inspires the disabled

Molly, a pony, lost her leg after a savage dog attack. She was fitted with a prosthesis, and now tours hospitals and schools to teach kids and adults about acceptance and courage. NBC's Wendy Jones reports.

Songs of hope

The African Children's Choir shares the dignity of the African child with the world while providing education.

Rescuing Recession-Hit Animals

Some of the hardest hit victims of the bad economy are abandoned animals whose owners have given them up. Cynthia Bowers shows us one woman has opened her home to over 200 abandoned animals.

Laying a Peaceful Foundation

Women of the U.S. Marines are on a special mission to win over the hearts and minds of Afghan women. As Mandy Clark reports, these links with Afghan women are essential.

Mozart: Healing music?

18th century composer is credited with helping premature babies gain weight in Israel. CNN's Paula Hancocks reports.

In Chicago, staying after school's cool

Chicago's After School Matters program is keeping kids out of trouble by keeping them engaged in learning, long after the school bell rings. NBC's Rehema Ellis reports.

Wounded warrior women hit the slopes

A new program in Colorado caters to the unique needs of female service members who have been wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan. NBC’s Kerry Sanders reports.

Making gas from garbage

CNN's Ben Wedeman reports from Cairo, Egypt, on one man's struggle to go completely green.

Man walks from NY to New Orleans relying on kindness

(Danielle Thomas, WLOX) One man's journey to find the good in people is almost to a close. Back in late August, Garth Poorman decided to walk from his hometown in upstate New York to New Orleans relying mostly on good hearted strangers to help him out from time to time.

Mom’s support inspires others to give

Brought together by need and the spirit of giving, two families from separate worlds now share a bond that will last a lifetime. NBC’s Amy Robach reports.

The Golden Rule

Maryland farmer John Helmstetter thought his life was ruined after a fire, until he regained the "American Spirit" when his neighbors and local Amish banded together to help. Jim Axelrod reports.

New chapter for gang member turned author

Once a part of the gangs of Los Angeles, Luis Rodriguez is now turning his community around, one child and one bookstore at a time. NBC's Miguel Almaguer has his story in this Making A Difference report.

Reunion promised 20 years ago

A pact was made by 20 third graders and one forward thinking teacher to meet Jan. 1, 2010. KING's Tonya Mosley reports.

Artist brings hope to 2010

Artist Robert Indiana, famous for his LOVE sculpture, hopes to bring more HOPE to 2010. NBC's Kerry Sanders reports.

The girl's got rhythm

Nikki Yanofsky, a teen singing sensation with an ear for swing, proves she's got both the pipes and the poise to pull off pop-stardom. NBC's Brian Williams reports.

Hospital Saves Money and Lives

A Texas hospital is saving money and lives by doing follow-ups for heart patients after being discharged. Don Teague reports on the hospital that cuts costs by caring for patients beyond its doors.

Film Redefines Layoffs

An aspiring filmmaker lost his job as an ad exec and immediately thought, 'when life hands you lemons, make lemonade.' Seth Doane has the story of a man who demonstrates the American Spirit.

Mom's toy story

Denise Garlow is hoping to create a successful toy company with dolls inspired by her daughter. CNN's Tony Harris reports.

Grandma to the troops

A 92-year-old California great-grandma has written more than two thousand letters to troops. CNN's Kara Finnstrom reports.

Once homeless, chef now serves hope

Preparing 400 meals a day at the Salvation Army in Mobile, Ala., Cecil Morris Jr., says cooking isn’t just a job, it’s a calling. NBC’s Peter Alexander reports.

Music in Motion

For many people housebound by illness, the idea of going out to a concert is just a dream, but now some musicians are bringing the music to them, in their own living rooms. John Bentley reports.

Store left unlocked; ‘Christmas spirit’ prevails

Two supermarkets in Roseville, Calif., were left unlocked and nothing was stolen, as shoppers show ‘Christmas spirit.' KCRA’s Kevin Riggs reports.

Dentist helps bald eagle get his beak back

An Anchorage, Alaska, dentist is spreading holiday cheer by performing an unusual operation on an unusual patient. KTUU’s Jackie Bartz reports.

Orchestra keeps kids’ lives in tune

Funded by donations and grants, the American Children’s Orchestras for Peace is designed to help underprivileged children stay out of trouble. NBC’s Mark Potter reports.

Teen brings holiday spirit to homeless vets

Many teenagers’ Christmas lists are chock-full of electronics and video games, but as NBC’s Chris Jansing reports, Jake Shafter of Houston, Texas, has other ideas.

'Santa Claus Special' Train Comes to Appalachia

For 66 years, the Santa Train has been handing out toys to children living in the Appalachia coal fields.

Finding 'love' in a shoebox

An orphan's Christmas box is filled with love and a new life. CNN's David Mattingly finds out how she's now giving back.

Artist to draw everyone in NYC

New York artist Jason Polan is on a mission to draw every person in the city. He's already drawn over 8,000 New Yorkers.

A painting worth 1,000 hearts

A North Carolina artist is using his gift for painting to honor homeless people across the state while raising much needed funds on their behalf. NBC's Ron Mott reports.

H1N1 innoculation for homeless

CNN's John Zarrella reports on what one man in south Florida is doing to reduce the spread of the H1N1 virus.

Mutt travels the world

ITN's David Harrison reports on the whimsical travels of a woman and her dog.

Town funds soldiers’ holiday trips home

When residents realized their family members wouldn’t be receiving a paid trip home with their 10 days off, they stepped in. NBC’s Michelle Kosinski reports.

Ben Stiller helps Haiti

Actor Ben Stiller sits down with CNN's Alina Cho to disucss his foundation, which raises money for schools in Haiti.

Small-Scale Housing Boom

When production slowed down at a Colorado cabinet company, workers started making doll houses for those in need. Barry Peterson has more on this episode of "American Spirit."

'Ruff' times ease, thanks to food bank for pets

With the number of homeless pets nearly doubled compared with last year, one 9-year-old decided to take action — and thanks to his Central Florida Animal Pantry, a lot of four-legged friends are no longer in need. NBC's Maria Menounos reports.

Kindness of American Saint Nick remembered

A small town in Luxembourg once destroyed by fierce fighting remembers one of the bright moments in the dark of Work War II -- a visit from Saint Nick. For Dick Brookins, a U.S. soldier standing in for an absent Saint Nicholas, it was to change his life also and help him find some meaning for the war in Europe.

Every kid needs a teddy bear

Six-year-old Justin Martin is on mission to make sure every kid has a teddy bear. CNN's Jonathan O'Bierne has the story.

Weaving a Better Life

Handcrafted baskets are a modern business, helping African people escape poverty. As Dave Price reports, these baskets on store shelves have an amazing story, beginning in the African nation Rwanda.

Burglarized church hands out gifts to kids

From burglarized to bursting with generosity, it's been a week to remember for members of a Clermont church.

Giving kids the chance to do the same

At the Giving Store in Bunnell, Florida, children get a chance to learn the meaning of the old adage, "It's better to give than to receive." NBC's Roger O'Neil reports.

Ottawa Man Becomes 'Superman' to Save Young Girl's Life

An Ottawa, Kansas, man may not be faster than a speeding bullet or more powerful than a locomotive. But to one little girl, Nick Harris is 'Superman' after he leaped into action with what can only be described as 'superpowers' to save her life after she became trapped under a car.

All I want for Xmas is my dad!

A soldier returns home for his daughter's birthday. WGCL's Renee Starzyk tells how Santa got involved.

Random acts of kindness pop up in Western NY

True signs of the giving spirit of the season

Connecting Lives Worldwide

Dr. Jane Aronson is trying to make foreign adoptions easier for both parents and children. Michelle Miller reports on her "American Spirit."

Holiday tradition honors fallen heroes

At more than 400 cemeteries across the country, Wreaths Across America makes sure fallen military members are remembered at Christmas. NBC’s Roger O'Neil reports.

All Smiles

While running a children's day care service, Ruth Kaiser was inspired by the smiles all around her. As John Blackstone reports, Kaiser has inspired many by pointing out 'smiles' seemingly everywhere.

Lose a pound, donate a pound

The Weight Watchers "Lose for Good" campaign encourages people to donate a pound of food for every pound they lose.

Army of volunteers connect military families

In an effort to bring military families who are far apart during the holidays a little closer, the non-profit "Totally For Troops" provides soldiers with free greeting cards that they can send home. NBC's Miguel Almaguer reports.

Cook saves Christmas

A cook at a diner saves one family's Christmas by digging through the trash. WHDH's Ryan Shulteis reports.

His Random Acts of Kindness Make Season Brighter

(NBC Connecticut) A Naugatuck man's random acts in kindness come in little white envelopes filled with however much he can afford, $5, $10 or $20 bills stuffed inside.

Rudolph the dog leads way to learning

A little dog who didn't seem to have much of a future is helping kids learn a very important lesson about compassion. NBC's Kevin Tibbles reports.

Kathryn's gift of fresh air

Photojournalist Oliver Janney shows us how a 12-year-old girl in Baltimore is clearing the air for healing.

Crazy Horse Monument Rises

A sculpture is being carved out of a mountain in South Dakota to honor the American Indian. As Mark Strassmann reports, they've been carving this sculpture for more than half a century.

A formula for the needy

Photojournalist Tawanda Scott explores the experiences of two women who are giving a personal gift to far away babies.

Family portraits bring smiles to soldiers

A group of imaging professionals have joined forces to photograph military families on the home front and deliver their portraits to deployed soldiers. NBC's Roger O'Neil reports.

British child prodigy compared to Picasso

Seven-year-old Kieron Williamson, a prolific artist whose works have sold for thousands of dollars, talks about what inspires him to paint. NBC's Simon Dedman reports.

A sewing circle to help Santa

The warm-hearted knitters behind Ethel's Mittens make hats and gloves for charities throughout the Midwest. NBC's Natalie Morales reports.

The Harmonica Man

A retired Scottish-born man should have died long ago. But after facing death on more than one occasion, he decided to share his secret to happiness ... music. Steve Hartman reports.

Diners spread goodwill by picking up tabs

A couple start a chain reaction by picking up another table's tab at a Philadelphia diner. WCAU's Dawn Timmeney reports.

Prince of Strides

Jonathon Prince chases a dream to make life better for the less fortunate - one stride at a time. T.J. Holmes reports.

Volunteer Portraits

CNN's Susan Candiotti covers international daylong photo shoot of the disadvantaged by volunteers.

Lion, tiger and bear live together

A lion named Leo, a tiger named Shere Khan and a bear named Baloo all live together in relative peace in the same pen at Noah’s Ark, a Georgia zoo. Director Jama Hegecoth tells TODAY’s Lester Holt how that is possible.

Wave Therapy

Surfers thrive on the rush of flying down walls of water up to five stories high. As John Blackstone reports, one surfer says the key to riding out damaging addictions can be found in the ocean.

Disabled artist uses robot arm to paint

A disabled Montana artist is able to paint his stunning landscapes through the assistance of a custom-designed robotic arm. KULR's Rob Carlmark reports.

Handmade quilts to give thanks

Photojournalist John Bena introduces us to a woman creating handmade gifts for wounded soldiers returning home.

Clean energy from food scraps

See how Californians are turning food scraps into cheap energy.

Foundation makes most of donations

The Robin Hood Foundation helps those in need by protecting donations from families who give what they can. NBC’s Rehema Ellis reports.

One-armed scholar athlete

A one-armed basketball player earns a college scholarship. HLN's Rafer Weigel reports.

Little Boy, Big Heart

Boy's toy drive closing in on 1,500 gifts

Pups put students at ease

Students use puppy therapy to help reduce tension over final exams. KCAL's Dave Lopez reports.

Animals with Guardian Angels

Some animal-loving aviators have teamed up to save animals from being euthanized in shelters. Richard Schlesinger reports on this "over ground railroad" for pets.

The oldest volunteer

South Africa's oldest World Cup volunteer applicant says age is on his side, as CNN's Nkepile Mabuse reports.

Gift of Life

For many children waiting for heart transplants, hope rests in an experimental device. Dr. Sanjay Gupta meets a child in desperate need of a heart transplant, and the device that kept her alive.

Getting paid to recycle

CNN's Richard Roth reports on a program that offers financial incentives to households based on how much they recycle.

Troubled teens navigate powerful currents

A program in Washington, D.C., is keeping troubled teenagers afloat by teaching them how to build boats. NBC's Norah O'Donnell reports.

'Secret Santas' Present Hope

Continuing a yearly "Assignment America" tradition, Steve Hartman visits and meets a group of 'Secret Santas' who randomly give to those in need this holiday season.

The Harlem Children's Zone

Geoffrey Canada's Harlem Children's Zone has helped put historically low-achieving students in New York on academic par with their grammar-school peers. CNN's Anderson Cooper reports.

Unusual homes from recycled material

Meet an artist who builds unusual homes from materials that would otherwise be thrown away.

Step By Step

Gregg Mozgala was born with cerebral palsy, he often wore leg braces until he was 12 but, as Serena Altschul reports, dancing has proved to be a most unlikely medicine for this young man.

Photo-taking orangutan a Web hit

The Internet traffic generated by Nonja’s expressive facial studies and impressionistic action shots triggered a surge of curious visitors to the Vienna Zoo.

Troupe empowers teens on, off stage

Twenty years after its founding, Voices United continues to give teenagers a chance to open up and find support through music. NBC's Mark Potter reports.

Buffett Sister Donates millions

Richard Schlesinger reports on the story of Warren Buffett's 81-year-old sister Doris, who has donated $80 million so far and plans to donate all the money she has left in the time she has left.

Medical surplus saves lives worlds away

Using equipment collected from U.S. hospitals, Project C.U.R.E. is helping doctors to bring routine procedures from America to places like Ethiopia. NBC's Michael Okwu reports.

Leukemia patient meets President Obama

Thanks to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a dream came true for 6-year-old Jasmina Anema, who made it to the White House this week to meet President Obama. NBC's Brian Williams reports.

Lemonade against cancer

When life hands you lemons, make lemonade. For one family it isn't just a saying, it's a way to fight cancer.

Cancer patient gets Army wish

An 8-year-old diagnosed with brain tumors is granted a wish to be an Army soldier for a day. WXIA reports.

House calls make a comeback

An old fashioned medical practice could help to cut Medicare costs. NBC's Roger O'Neil reports.

Cancer survivor keeps climbing

Sean Swarner, an improbable cancer survivor, brings a message of hope and commiseration to cancer patients in Jakarta.

95 Keys to the City

Mark Malcoff has collected 95 keys to 95 cities, an honor bestowed upon him for being a regular guy. Steve Hartman reports on how you too can obtain a "key to the city."

Gold coin, worth $1,000, dropped in donation bucket

Officials at the Salvation Army outside Chicago found a solid gold South African Krugerrand in a donation tin.

One man’s trash becomes another’s home

In Huntsville, Texas, Dan Phillips is turning trash into treasure by repurposing waste in an effort to help extend the American dream. NBC’s Anne Thompson reports.

One woman USO

Carolyn Blashek is on a mission to bring smiles to U.S. servicemembers overseas. Fredricka Whitfield has her story.

Finding a Purpose

Power Soccer provides inspiration for those confined to a wheelchair.

Church gives out free money

One local church is giving out free cash to people in the congregation this weekend. But there is a catch. This Sunday many parishioners will be walking out with an envelope in their hands. Their assignment sounds pretty simple. Take the money inside and use it to do good deeds.

Real-Life High School Musical

After several of his students died from gang violence, L.A. drama teacher Jamal Speakes set out to produce a play which would inspire all. Bill Whitaker reports on this teacher's "American Spirit."

A boy and his squirrel

A woman who raises orphan squirrels says one won't leave her son alone. Bay News 9's Josh Rojas reports

Lending Happiness

During this recession, many children are deprived from something as simple as a toy, but now a toy loan program is bringing the spirit of the holidays to kids in need. Bill Whitaker has the story.

NFL star helps homeless teen

Oakland Raiders cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha is helping a homeless teen find a college. CNN's Thelma Gutierrez reports.

School takes care of its own

A Las Vegas elementary school goes the extra mile to help its students. CNN's Dan Simon reports.

Network Farming

CNN's Jason Carroll reports on how a group of farmers created a network to control costs and create more sales.

Moms brigade moves mountains in Appalachia

One mother's efforts to reach out to another has blossomed into a mission that's raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to help dozens of impoverished families in Kentucky. NBC's Amy Robach reports.

Christmas Trees for Troops

FedEx and a tree farm team up to spread holiday cheer to troops and their families. WRTV's Julie Pursley reports.

Alicia Keys' AIDS Mission

Grammy winner Alicia Keys helps build clinics and provide medicine for families dealing with AIDS in Africa.

A Human Billboard

A 27-year-old Floridian makes a comfortable living by simply putting on a T-shirt. Jason Sadler gets paid to wear company logos and circulate pictures online. Steve Hartman his story on Assignment America.

'Project Air'

An organization uses yoga to help rape survivors in Rwanda heal and grow stronger.

Soup kitchen chef raises the standard of giving

A skilled chef leaves Napa Valley to train his talents on cooking gourmet meals for the homeless. NBC’s George Lewis reports.

Solutions: Urban Farms

Living in the inner city, fresh vegetables and fruit can be hard to find. But one man is trying to change that.

Struggling species gets helping hand

Naturalist Jeff Corwin documents the efforts of scientists to revive Indonesia’s critically endangered Sumatran orangutan population.

Woman opens up farm

A farm owner in Colorado is sharing her harvest with the community. KMGH reports.

Urban Bee-Keeping

A Washington DC Hotel has become another outpost of 'Urban Bee-Keeping'. As the bee population declines, keeping urban bees is growing worldwide. Wyatt Andrews reports.

American Spirit: Second Chance

High school senior Jesse Ray Bear was one of the teens known as the Jena 6. Bear was charged with attempted murder in a controversial court case. Harold Dow reports on his second chance.

Restaurant is served with dish of generosity

Mystery man helps local eatery avoid foreclosure

Zoo animals comfort sick kids via TV

Using cameras mounted inside cages, Zoo TV harnesses the remarkable power of animals to make sick kids feel better. NBC's Jeff Rossen reports.

Iraq school for the blind

A school for the blind in Iraq gets help from an American school. CNN's Mohammed Jamjoom reports from Baghdad.

Miracle pup survives 3 months in wilderness

Mindy, a Maltese-poodle mix, survived more than three months in the woods of northwest Massachusetts, which is also home to owls, foxes, coyotes and bears. WKYC-TV's Paul Thomas reports.

Steer thinks he's a dog

It's a classic case of mistaken identity. Not expected to live after he was born, in an effort to save him, Chuck the steer was raised by Labrador retrievers. WXIA-TV's Mark Pickard reports.

Prison-trained puppies help troops

Prisoners are paired with puppies in a ground-breaking program to train service dogs for injured war veterans. Gemma Haines reports.

Boys Town wins on—and off—the field

A lot of hopes and dreams are on the line at the famous Nebraska school for troubled kids known as "Boys Town," but their undefeated football team is proving they've learned the lessons of success. NBC's Kevin Tibbles reports.

Solar energy for Africa

Inside Africa looks at how a U.S. faith based organization plans to help bring electricity to African homes

A Homemade 747

Most men are known for building things, but one California man has a passion for building a 747 Jet - in his garage. Steve Hartman welcomes you aboard this Assignment America.

Singer’s school fosters kids’ love of arts

He left his heart in San Francisco, but Tony Bennett is making a difference back in his old neighborhood, giving students a chance to embrace their passions at the Frank Sinatra High School for the Arts. NBC’s Lester Holt reports.

Skydiving granny: 95-year-old leaps from plane

A 95-year-old New York women celebrates her birthday with a leap of a lifetime. WNYT's John Craig reports.

Mind Games

The third and final day of the World Memory Championship took place in London. As Elizabeth Palmer reports, this mind competition was something never to forget.

Bike restorers bring joy, inspiration

The unique program isn't simply a product of today's hard times. As NBC's Peter Alexander reports, it was formed many years ago by a man who knows a little something about sacrifice.

Ludacris' Other Side

Hip-hop mogul inspires a generation with philanthropic work through his Ludacris Foundation, which is designed to help youth and families

For patients, art is therapy

A Texas hospital has developed a creative way to help lift patients’ spirits, and unlock their potential. KXAS reporter Lindsay Wilcox has the story.

Waste Not, Want Not

The non-profit organization Forgotten Harvest collects thousands of pounds of perfectly edible food discarded by businesses in order to feed those who face hunger. Seth Doane reports from Detroit.

Tim McGraw turns spotlight on hurricane recovery

The country music megastar talks about the work he and wife Faith Hill are doing to help their home region recover from an epic disaster. NBC's Amy Robach reports.

Rowing Through the Darkness

Blinded after a bizarre occurrence, Aerial Gilbert remained determined to successfully join a rowing club despite her complete vision loss. John Blackstone reports on this rower's "American Spirit."

Halle Berry, helping women turn lives around

Actress Halle Berry draws on her family's painful experience with domestic abuse to help others. NBC's Natalie Morales reports.

Glenn Close: My sister is 'my hero'

The award-winning actress Glenn Close has played dozens of powerful, memorable parts, but off-screen she's taken on a supporting role at a recovery center for people with mental illness. NBC's Anne Thompson reports.

Alicia Keys uses voice for the voiceless

NBC's Lester Holt travels to Durban, South Africa, to meet with some of those who benefit from the charitable efforts of singer Alicia Keys.

The Band From TV

Television actors rock for charity

Jon Bon Jovi: I believe in the power of 'we'

Pop star Jon Bon Jovi emphasizes his conviction in empowering people to work together to alleviate social ills

Flea's Music Conservatory

Red Hot Chili Peppers' Bassist Flea opens a nonprofit music conservatory for kids in Silverlake, Los Angeles.

An Enduring Love

A couple who was separated for 50 years because of someone's lie now has a happy ending. As Steve Hartman reports, this happy couple is ready to start their life together.

Holy Fashion

Rev. Andrew O'Connor, a Parish Priest in NYC, is beginning to make his name in the world of high-end fashion and also do some good at the same time. Bianca Solorzano has the story of this runaway priest.

Vets bond through music

Photojournalist Floyd Yarmuth reports on a program at Walter Reed that uses music to complement rehab.

Unknown vets spared paupers' graves

(CNN) When Vincent Barrett died alone in July at age 72, the coroner's office could not find any next of kin. Similarly, Ronald Axtell was listed as indigent -- no survivors and no funds for a funeral -- when he died at age 69. And yet a small army of men and women gathered to pay their respects to the two men, both Air Force veterans, as they were buried at Bakersfield National Cemetery in September.

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