On Valentine’s Day, people passing through Thwing Center were greeted by a nice surprise: wooden roses handed out by a group of students who have made it their mission to spread cheer across campus.
Members of the Acts of Random Kindness organization understand how a simple gesture can transform a person’s day, so in between classes and extra-curriculars, they seek out ways to cultivate a culture of kindness across the campus year-round.
Their acts range from passing out tea and coffee in the library to preparing exam survival kits. And in November, they work to get as many student organizations as possible involved for World Kindness Day.
The organization’s goal extends beyond encouraging its members and other student organizations to perform acts of kindness; it also seeks to inspire the community to spread kindness.
In honor of Random Acts of Kindness Week (Feb. 11-17), we asked members of the organization to share tips for how the university community can do just that.
- Wait and hold the door open for someone behind you.
- Smile or greet a stranger—it’s always good to meet someone new.
- Give someone a genuine compliment or tell them something you appreciate about them.
- Treat a friend to coffee, tea or a snack (hot chocolate is always a treat in the cold.).
- Give someone a hug if they are comfortable with it.
- Help someone with their homework or study with them.
- Do the dishes for your roommates.
- Thank a faculty member.
- Leave a piece of paper with an inspirational quote or kind words for someone to find.
- Do some volunteering (or make a plan to).
Want to continue spreading kindness beyond this week? Join the Acts of Random Kindness organization by attending a meeting Thursdays from 7 to 8 p.m. in Thwing Center, Room 302.