How to Celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Day – Ideas to Inspire Love and Kindness
“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” – Aesop
Did you know February 17th is National Random Acts of Kindness Day? While the demands of everyday life can be stressful and even overwhelming sometimes, it’s important to remember how our actions can affect others. We may feel like our actions can’t change the world, but one small act of kindness can change someone’s life for the better.
Plus kindness does a person good. From making us feel happier to having healthier hearts, kindness has real, tangible benefits for the giver.
In honor of National Random Acts of Kindness Day, we’re counting down super easy ways to be kind to others and the world:
Give Your Time
Time is often considered our most important resource. While we all wish we had a little bit more of it, carving out some time to help those in need can have a major impact. Volunteering doesn’t require any extra money or skills, just bring a smile and willingness to help.
To make the most of your time, find a volunteer activity to match your interests or hobbies. Love to sing? Find a nursing home and do a mini talent show for the residents. Are you good with kids? Spend time at an afterschool program. There are plenty of resources online to help find the perfect volunteer opportunity for you.
MERS Goodwill also offers a variety of volunteer programs right here in the St. Louis area.
Recycle Your Old Stuff
We all know recycling matters. After drinking a soda, we remember to put the empty bottle in the recycling bin. But to really step up your recycling game, recycle old items around the house.
Every house has them. Closets full of stuff you may or may not use anymore. If the item has been unused for longer than a full year, it’s generally time to donate it. Did you get a not-so-great holiday or birthday gift? Instead of letting it collect dust and take up space, donate it.
You can make an entire family day with your loved ones to go through all the rooms of the house and make “keep” or “donate” categories for your items. Getting the younger ones involved is especially impactful since they will see early on a good example of thinking of others.
When you are finished, load up the items and drive to your nearest Goodwill. We gladly accept everything from clothing to computers. Don’t forget your donations are tax deductable!
All of your accepted items are sold at fair prices to your neighbors. Revenue from these sales is invested throughout the community for a range of services including life training skills and employment programs. Your donations are recycled into new homes for families and provide critical community empowerment. You can’t get much kinder than that!
Buy an Unexpected Gift
If you’re short on time, but still want to spread joy for Random Acts of Kindness Day think about giving someone a small, thoughtful gift. What kind of gift? Take into consideration the person’s style and personality. If you are giving a girlfriend a special gift, Goodwill offers a wide selection of jewelry and accessories including necklaces, earrings, and purses.
You can treat your children to a new toy, game, or movie to watch together. If you’re getting something for relatives, they might appreciate a new home dĂ©cor item like a flower arrangement or piece of art.
