10 Random Acts of Kindness

I think we can all agree that we get so much more out of giving than we do receiving. The same is true when you are giving of your time or resources to help others. The expression on someone's face when you do something truly kind for that person is irreplaceable.

Today, for no particular reason, I want to encourage all of my readers to perform a random act of kindness. Whether it's donating your time or money to a charity or simply smiling at a stranger... let's all try to make a difference in someone's life today! Here are some ideas for you to consider! 

10 Random Acts of Kindness

1. Take cookies to your local fire department

2. Write someone you love a handwritten "Thinking of You" card

3. Create 1 sack lunch each day for a week and hand them out to the homeless folks in your neighborhood

4. Donate blood

5. Have a skill? Graphic design? PR? Gift someone with your talents who could use a break

6. Tell your parents how much you love them

7. Volunteer at a nursing home

8. Pick up coffee or lunch for your coworker

9. Compliment someone who looks like they are having a rough day

10. Volunteer to babysit for a friend so mom and dad can have a date night

Here are some of my other favorite charities and ways you can make a difference. Remember to always check with http://www.charitywatch.org/ to make sure that the charity that you are giving to is legitimate.

Meals on Wheels

The Meals On Wheels Association of America is the oldest and largest national organization composed of and representing local, community-based Senior Nutrition Programs in the US. Meals on Wheels provides well over one million meals to seniors who need them each day. There are tons of ways to help: Money donation, offering to become a drivers, office help, special events and fundraising, meal prep and call center.

Fallen Heroes Fund

The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund serves United States military personnel wounded or injured in service to our nation, and their families. Supporting these heroes helps repay the debt all Americans owe them for the sacrifices they have made in service to our nation. Begun in 2000 and established as an independent not-for-profit organization in 2003, the Fund has provided close to $150 million in support for the families of military personnel lost in service to our nation, and for severely wounded military personnel and veterans. 

Caring Cowls

Caring Cowls is a nonprofit organization that raises money for various charities and organizations. All proceeds from sales are donated (minus material and shipping costs). So far, Caring Cowls has donated $300 to the American Red Cross, American Cancer Society, and Action Against Hunger.

ONEHOPE

ONEHOPE is a social enterprise that integrates causes into products and services to make a social impact. One of those products is wine. Really good wine. Half of the profits for each bottle sold goes to partner causes. I will happily cheers to that! Founded in 2007, ONEHOPE has already donated over $1 Million to their partner causes.