National Day of Encouragement
September 12
About National Day of Encouragement
National Day of Encouragement takes place on Saturday, 12 September 2026. It is a day set aside in the United States to uplift others through kind words and genuine support, encouraging people to make a positive difference in someone else’s life. The observance was formally recognised in 2007 and has been marked on 12 September every year since.
What is National Day of Encouragement?
National Day of Encouragement is an annual observance dedicated to the simple act of encouraging others. The idea is straightforward: a few sincere words of support can change how someone feels about themselves and their day. The day is open to everyone, in homes, schools, workplaces, and communities, and it asks nothing more than that people take a moment to lift others up. It grew out of a youth-led project that saw a lack of encouragement as a real obstacle facing young people.
When is National Day of Encouragement?
National Day of Encouragement falls on Saturday, 12 September 2026. It is observed on 12 September every year, so the date is fixed even though the day of the week changes. It is mainly marked in the United States, where it originated, though its message travels easily anywhere.
Why National Day of Encouragement Matters
Encouragement costs nothing yet can have a lasting effect, and the day exists to remind people of that. Research into wellbeing consistently links social support and positive relationships with better mental health, lower stress, and greater resilience. For young people in particular, a single encouraging adult or friend can shape confidence and ambition. The date also carries quiet significance: falling the day after the anniversary of the 11 September attacks, it was conceived partly as a moment for people to come together and support one another through grief.
How to Get Involved in National Day of Encouragement
Taking part is easy and can be done in a few minutes or stretched across the whole day. Here are some ideas.
- Write a note of encouragement – A short handwritten card or message to a friend, colleague, or family member can mean far more than a passing remark.
- Offer a sincere compliment – Tell someone specifically what you admire about their work or character rather than a vague kind word.
- Check in on someone struggling – Reach out to a person you know is going through a hard time and let them know you are thinking of them.
- Encourage a young person – Tell a child, student, or junior colleague that you believe in them, echoing the youth-focused roots of the day.
- Thank the people who support you – Use the day to acknowledge a mentor, teacher, or friend whose encouragement has helped you.
- Spread positivity online – Post a genuinely uplifting message rather than scrolling past, and respond kindly to others.
- Encourage yourself too – Practise a little self-compassion, recognise your own progress, and speak to yourself as you would a friend.
History of National Day of Encouragement
National Day of Encouragement began in 2007 with a group of young people attending the National Leadership Forum at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. They formed The Encouragement Project after identifying a lack of encouragement as one of the main obstacles facing young people, and they chose to launch a day built entirely around lifting others up.
The day quickly gained official backing. Mayor Belinda LaForce of Searcy issued the first proclamation on 22 August 2007, and Governor Mike Beebe followed by declaring 12 September 2007 the State Day of Encouragement for Arkansas. President George W. Bush then signed a message recognising 12 September as the National Day of Encouragement, cementing its place on the calendar.
Since then the observance has spread well beyond Arkansas. Schools, charities, faith groups, and businesses now mark it each year, and its message of mutual support has found a wide audience both within and beyond the United States.
Noteworthy Facts About National Day of Encouragement
- The day was created in 2007 by young people at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas.
- The first proclamation was issued by Mayor Belinda LaForce on 22 August 2007.
- President George W. Bush signed a message making 12 September the official National Day of Encouragement.
- It grew out of The Encouragement Project, which focused on the lack of encouragement facing young people.
- The 12 September date was chosen partly so people could support one another after the 11 September anniversary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is National Day of Encouragement?
It is an annual observance dedicated to encouraging and uplifting others through kind words and genuine support, helping people make a positive impact on those around them.
When is National Day of Encouragement in 2026?
National Day of Encouragement is on Saturday, 12 September 2026. It is held on 12 September every year.
How did National Day of Encouragement start?
It began in 2007 with young people at the National Leadership Forum at Harding University in Arkansas, who founded The Encouragement Project. It was soon recognised by local, state, and presidential proclamations.
Spread the Word
Help raise awareness by sharing National Day of Encouragement with your friends, family, and followers. Use the hashtags #NationalDayOfEncouragement and #DayOfEncouragement2026 on social media. The more people who take a moment to encourage someone, the bigger the impact.
Related Awareness Days
- National Spread Joy Day – A day devoted to brightening other people’s lives, sharing the same uplifting spirit.
- Never Give Up Day – A day about perseverance and encouragement that pairs naturally with this one.
- Social Media Kindness Day – A day focused on using social platforms to support and uplift others.
Links
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