As part of a project, I am doing research on several community benefit organizations around Fresno. I am amazed by the variety of causes people devote to, and many times, I want to join them in their efforts. By the end of an hour of researching, I have a huge list of organizations with a title, “Must Contact for Further Information.” The truth, though, is that I can’t join every worthy cause. There just is not enough time in the day! I have also noticed that this lack of time is a problem for a lot of people who want to participate in service efforts. This is one of the reasons why I love the idea of contributing to all kinds of service efforts in a variety of ways in a campaign effort that starts today: Random Acts of Kindness Week.
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Random Acts of Kindness Week is taking place November 12 through November 15, and aside from promoting a culture of kindness on our campus, it gives us an opportunity to serve others in a minimal, impactful way. These acts range from writing notes of appreciation to loved ones, paying a compliment to a stranger, holding the door open for people, etc. You name it! The possibilities are endless, and the impact however small, is amazing.
Last year was the first year this occurred at Fresno State, and I saw the effects of it on multiple people. Staff that knew about it went out of their way to let others know how they were appreciated; students in line at Starbucks paid for the person’s drinks behind them; kind notes were written; and teachers were thanked. These kind acts are all part of a huge service campaign in which Fresno State gets to participate.
So, I propose a new way of thinking. Let’s not talk about all of the things we wish we could do if we had more time, but instead, let’s agree that we CAN make a big difference…even if through small acts.
“Though my work may be menial, though my contribution may be small, I can perform it with dignity and offer it with unselfishness. My talents may not be great, but I can use them to bless the lives of others…. The goodness of the world in which we live is the accumulated goodness of many small and seemingly inconsequential acts.” –Gordon B. Hinckley
So…what are some creative acts of kindness you can do? What kind acts do you do on a daily basis? How does that impact others? If you had more time, what would be one service activity you’d like to participate in? How can you make that happen through random acts of kindness?
–Ambassador Amanda
Schedule of Festivities Celebrating Fresno State’s Random Acts of Kindness Week!
Brought to you by the Richter Center Ambassadorswith the Recreation AssociationKindness Kick-Off Tuesday, Nov. 12 from 12 – 1 in the Free Speech AreaSpin the Wheel of Kindness, learn & share kindness ideas, and participate in the Picture the Change pledge booth!Give BloodTuesday, Nov. 12 from 4:30 – 7:30 in the Residence Dining Hall (East Room)Wednesday & Thursday, Nov. 13 – 14 from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm throughout campus
Be kind by saving 1 – 3 lives with a donation to the Central California Blood Center. The organization will be on campus with four blood mobiles located at the Student Union, Education Building, Maple Mall, and Engineering East Building. Visit http://www.donateblood.org for more information.
TV Night, featuring Derek – A little kindness never gets old.Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 7:00 pm in McLane Hall, Room 121Celebrate World Kindness Day with a screening of the critically acclaimed BBC series, Derek starring Ricky Gervais as Derek Noakes, a loyal English nursing home caretaker who sees only the good in everyone. Derek’s sunny outlook comes in handy with his quirky coworkers and friends as they struggle against prejudice, government bureaucracy, and constantly shrinking budgets to care for the elderly residents who depend on them. Refreshments and opportunities for reflection will be provided.Share Your Kindness StoriesThursday, Nov. 14 from 12 – 1 in the Free Speech AreaVisit the Ambassador Random Acts of Kindness table to share your story of kindness and get a treat! Kindness PanelFriday, Nov. 15 from 12 – 1 in North Gym, Room 160
Guest speakersDr. Levine and Dr. Chapman will offer their thoughts wisdom about kindness.
Serving Fresno DaySaturday, Nov. 16 from 8:00 am – 12:30 pmRegister by November 13th at http://www.frenostate.edu/cesl to help revitalize Woodward Park or build trails with the Sierra Foothill Conservancy. This will be a great community-effort Act of Kindness!
All week we encourage you to participate in Random Acts of Kindness to help perpetuate a culture of kindness. Share your stories of kindness with us on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/richtercenter or tweet @richtercenter using #RAKweek13 and #fresnostateserves
The Richter Center Student Leaders 
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