FAIRMONT — In a world seemingly filled with divisiveness and negativity, Sweet Financial Services of Fairmont is offering an uplifting respite to local residents at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Fairmont High School auditorium.

Chris Gardner, whose best-selling autobiography, “The Pursuit of Happyness,” became an acclaimed film starring Will Smith, will deliver a motivational and inspired message at the event, which is free and open to the public.

Bryan Sweet, founder and CEO of Sweet Financial Services, explained that spreading a positive attitude is an expansion of his business’ culture.

“All the people in the office are really big believers in a positive mindset, and we try to run the business that way,” he said.

Throughout his career, Sweet says, he has had a wonderful opportunity to hear some top-notch speakers, and he offers top praise for Gardner.

“If he’s not the best speaker I’ve ever heard, he’s definitely in the top three. He’s amazing,” Sweet said.

Gardner was a single father of a young son who found himself evicted from his apartment and forced to live in shelters and endure many hardships. He eventually found a job at a prestigious brokerage firm, but the position initially paid no money. His story focuses on his struggle to create a better life for him and his son.

His self-created success story resonates with Sweet.

“I’m one of those people who believe that regardless of your age, your circumstances, your upbringing, anything is possible,” Sweet said, and he adds a couple of his favorite adages.

“If you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.”

“You have two choices: You can make a living, or you can design a life.”

In addition to his evening address, Gardner will speak to Fairmont junior and senior high school students during a special afternoon presentation.

“That will probably be the more impactful thing. Young people can be affected in so many ways by what they see and hear so if we can expose kids to a positive situation, that can be very motivating,” Sweet said.

Although the event is free, people can contribute to the creation of a relaxation room at the high school for students can be made out to Fairmont Area Schools and dropped off at the school office or at the event.

People planning to attend Tuesday night’s event should RSVP by calling (507) 235-5587 or by emailing marsha@sweetfinancial.com. There are no reserved seats, but the registration process will help ensure adequate seating.