The Founding Church of Scientology hosts World Kindness Day Open House amid encouraging crime-reduction trends

Washington, D.C. — November 18, 2025 — The Founding Church of Scientology of Washington, D.C. marked World Kindness Day with an inspiring Open House aimed at addressing today’s moral challenges while celebrating the power of kindness to uplift communities across the District.

Chas Smith, Director of Special Affairs for the Church and Master of Ceremonies for the event, opened by acknowledging the rising moral issues affecting families, schools, and neighborhoods—ranging from intolerance and fraud to criminality, drug abuse, and the erosion of personal responsibility. Yet the event focused equally on solutions, emphasizing the difference individuals and organizations can make through acts of kindness and the restoration of basic human values.

Smith highlighted encouraging developments in the nation’s capital. According to the Metropolitan Police Department, Washington, D.C. has seen significant improvements in public safety this year:

• Homicides are down 29% compared to this time in 2024
• Total violent crime has decreased 28%
• Robbery is down approximately 35%
• Assault with a Dangerous Weapon is down around 12%

Regional data from the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments further shows a 30% drop in homicides across the metro area during the first four months of 2025 compared to the same period the year prior.

“These improvements demonstrate what can happen when communities emphasize kindness, moral responsibility, and meaningful engagement,” Smith said.

A cornerstone of the event was The Way to Happiness, the nonreligious moral code written by L. Ron Hubbard, consisting of 21 precepts designed to strengthen integrity, compassion, and mutual respect. Materials showcased included the Way to Happiness book-on-film, award-winning public service announcements, and the comprehensive Educator’s Package used in schools, corporations, community programs, and criminal rehabilitation initiatives.

Washington, D.C. has been a special focus of these efforts. Smith announced that over 275,000 copies of The Way to Happiness have been mailed to District residents over the past year, part of an ongoing initiative that began in December 2024. This citywide distribution continues until every household has received a copy.

The Open House included presentations, film screenings, and opportunities for attendees to explore the Way to Happiness curriculum. Free educational packages and training programs were offered to attendees seeking to strengthen values-based initiatives.

“Kindness is not passive—it is a powerful force for change,” Smith said. “By sharing this booklet, by applying these precepts, each of us can help build a more compassionate and responsible community.”

The event concluded with a call to action and an invitation for guests to continue their involvement through tours, materials, and volunteer opportunities.

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