Couple performing acts of kindness in all 50 states

ORANGEBURG, N.Y. -- We all know weddings can be expensive, but one local couple decided rather than spending the money on themselves, they're paying it forward with 50 acts of kindness -- a single act in all 50 states.

"There wasn't really that typical moment when the guy proposes to the girl," said Mark Svensson of 50 Acts of Giving Back.

That's not surprising since there's nothing ordinary about this couple, who is in the midst of doing something extraordinary.

"We both realized what really made us happy was helping people in need," said Ismini Svensson.

While planning their wedding, Ismini and Mark decided that's not what they really wanted to do. So they bagged the idea of a ceremony and honeymoon and instead set out to travel across the country and perform one act of kindness in each state.

"The love and support we received was tremendous and we will cherish these memories forever," said Ismini.

Through social media, they ask people in each state what's needed and where. They've been on the road for 2 years, with their 16-month-old daughter also going along for the life-changing ride.

The couple once visited a woman in North Carolina who was dying from lung cancer.

"She said, 'I was in pain and lonely and I was praying for a miracle and you guys opened the door and you showed up with flowers and presents, and I will never forget that moment,'" said Ismini.

They've traveled by car, train, bus and plane, but not yet by boat. They call it 50 Acts of Giving Back, inspired by Ismini's father, who passed away suddenly at a charity event.

The initiative has been so successful that people started sending them money, which they used to start their own non-profit, Stay United, geared towards helping children in New York.

"The message is everyone can do something to make a difference, even in their own communities, even if it's a compliment to someone. You never know the impact it may have on someone," Mark said.

Ismini and Mark plan to head to the Midwest next, then the Pacific Northwest, Alaska and then wrap up their incredible journey in Hawaii.

Click here for more information on 50 Acts of Giving Back.