Everybody invited to celebrate 29 years of Random Acts of Kindness

Committee members pose outside the Picton library branch in a break from decorating with blue ribbons in preparation for the 29th annual Violence Awareness and Random Acts of Violence Week. From left, are: Margie Robb, Chris Macdonald, Pam Smith and Nancy Roberts.

The 29th annual Violence Awareness and Random Acts of Kindness Week March 3– 9 seeks to promote positive energy to counteract negative effects of senseless violence in society, during a week of self-guided acts.

“I am pleased to report that our 29th annual Kindness Week anniversary will be a welcome change from this long, cold winter and something that we can all look forward to and benefit from,” said Chris Macdonald co-chair of the committee (VARAK). “I would like to thank the greater Quinte, Hastings and Prince Edward County communities for the support you have shown and for embracing our ideology that kindness is contagious and to please pass it on.”

Macdonald started the week with her sister Pam Smith, in memory of Macdonald’s son Mark Fyke, who was shot and killed while on a school trip in Florida in 1996. Less than four months after his death, Belleville’s Becky Middleton was raped and murdered while in Bermuda. Shawn Keegan was shot and killed in Toronto just a few months later.

The blue ribbons of hope were the idea of Mark’s sister Jen, as a visual reminder that violence makes victims, and to encourage random acts of kindness.

The week begins with a candlelight vigil Monday, March 3 where people are asked to light a candle and observe a minute of silence at 7 p.m., in remembrance of all victims of violence.

On Tuesday, March 4th, expect kindness when you least expect it. On the day, and throughout the week, ‘Kindness Crews’ will be passing on acts of kindness and appreciation in Belleville, Trenton, Madoc, Marmora, Wellington, Bloomfield, Picton, Consecon, Frankford and Stirling.

“If you receive a random act of kindness, please pass the kindness on,” adds Macdonald. “Remember, kindness is contagious. Special thanks to Lactalis Canada (Black Diamond) and Hawkins Cheezies for their generous donations to our Kindness Crews.”

Wednesday, March 5th is Blue Ribbon of Hope Day and everybody is encouraged to prominently display and wear Blue Ribbons of Hope. Those who have not picked one up at area locations are asked to wear blue to symbolize kindness.

Thursday March 6th is Thankful Thursday and the public is asked to take some time out of their day to text, message or call and thank someone who has touched your life with their kindness.

Friday March 7th is Friendly Friday and the public is asked to surprise a family member, friend or neighbour with an inspirational note, flowers, an email, a card or some other act of kindness to let them know how much they are appreciated.

Saturday, March 8th is the selection of the Kindness Citizen of the Year Award. Nominations of people who have touched you by their kindness can be submitted to Quinte Mall Guest Services, or emailed to qteservice@primarisreit.com. Online ballots are available at www.varak.ca This award is sponsored by Quinte Mall and Charm Diamonds Centre. Nominations must be received by Friday, March 7th. The Kindness Citizen of the Year will have their name displayed on the digital signs throughout Quinte Mall and will also receive an award and gifts in recognition of their kindness.

Random Acts of Kindness Day is Sunday, March 9.

“Any act of kindness, no matter how small, can have the greatest impact and proves that angels truly are among us,” said Macdonald. “Remember the only thing better than receiving an act of kindness, is giving one!”

The VARAK program is offered to 59 area elementary schools and 14 high schools and is made possible through the generosity and support of service clubs, local businesses and other organizations within the greater Quinte community.

Local area elementary school students have been invited to participate in colouring and poster contests with winning entries to be displayed at the Quinte Mall. Elementary school winners are to receive a certificate of achievement, a plaque and a Quinte Mall gift card in recognition of their accomplishments.

High schools are also invited to nominate a student as their Kindness Citizen and a draw is to be held at the conclusion of the week to choose the overall winner who will receive a lap top computer courtesy of Quinte Mall and a printer from the VARAK program. In addition, two high school students will each receive a bursary from the VARAK program.