Latest news with #RandomActsofKindness
eNCA
18-07-2025
- Politics
- eNCA
Rejecting rhetoric and tokenism, and embracing transformative thinking
Dear Colleagues, Partners, and fellow South Africans, 'As Mandela Day Approaches – Let us reject rhetoric and tokenism, and embrace transformative thinking echoed in Random Acts of Kindness and Deliberate Acts of Restoration.' As we approach 18 July 2025, let us pause—not merely to commemorate, but to reflect with integrity and purpose. This is not the time for soothing rhetoric or symbolic gestures that serve only as temporary pain relief for our nation's deeper wounds. Our people deserve more than ceremonial empathy. They deserve bold action rooted in justice, courage, and dignity. The legacy we inherit was paved by sacrifice, not convenience. It was not built for comfort, but carved through blood, resilience, and the unwavering dream of a liberated, dignified, and equal South Africa. Truth be told, Tata Madiba never lived for applause. He didn't crave glory and was never fixated on his name being used to celebrate a single day. What made him extraordinary was his unwavering insistence that others must thrive. He lived together with the other departed struggle heroes for something far greater: a country united in its commitment to dignity, justice, and the Constitution. And if we are conscious, that mission remains unfinished. Yes, we honour the legacy, but let us do so with courageous leadership, a long-term vision, and real, measurable change—not with rehearsed speeches or symbolic gestures. It must become a national habit of giving, building, and transforming beyond our own needs. And that's where our perspective must shift. It should call each of us as citizens, leaders, and institutions to act in ways that honour the Constitution, not in speech, but in deeds. Among us are the Madibas, who may never be known, whose names will never appear in headlines-yet they serve, they sacrifice, and they build quietly. They are educators, nurses, caregivers, municipal workers, professionals in the built environment, economists, scientists, transport drivers, bakers, cleaners, mortuary workers, police officers, court workers, community leaders, job creators, entertainers, news anchors, recyclers and ordinary citizens who rise with selfless purpose every day. Let us salute them because Mandela's legacy lives not in statues, but in the quiet strength of those who continue to build despite the odds. To those who may no longer believe in Mandela Day, for whatever reason, I urge you: still participate. Not for symbolism or performance, but because selfless giving and sacrifice still matter. Even one act of deliberate kindness can restore faith, dignity, and hope. This is not a day of branding; it is a day of becoming better neighbours, more ethical leaders, and more conscious builders of the nation. The real question is not what we will do for 67 minutes, But what will we do with the 364 days that follow? Because the soul of Mandela Day lies not in what we give away for a moment, but in what we build, protect, and transform for generations to come. In that spirit, we must be careful not to reduce this day to ribbons, branded t-shirts, or food parcels. These are appreciated, but we must not confuse temporary relief with long-term transformation. It is easy to perform well. It is harder to build well. Yet, that is precisely what our country needs: systems, institutions, and leadership that outlive applause. Let us take on this challenge moving forward: to use our platforms and resources to restore dignity where it has been denied. We must drive transformation that is structural, not merely symbolic. Our leadership must be defined not only by strategy, but by conscience. We do not lead for compliance; we lead for meaningful, generational impact. This calls for asking the difficult questions: Are we building generational capacity, or simply ticking off compliance boxes that soothe our conscience but make no lasting change? Are our interventions enabling dignity and self-reliance, or are we creating dependency under the guise of goodwill? Because if Mandela Day means anything, it must mean this: Leadership without moral imagination is not leadership at all. It is administration without vision, authority without purpose, and influence without integrity.'. Today, I challenge each of us, whether in government, business, education, or civil society, to step beyond words and symbolism. Let us commit to actions that restore dignity, open doors, and build lasting opportunities. Let us hold ourselves accountable not only on Mandela Day, but in the decisions we make every day thereafter. 'Decolonization is not only a long-standing political and epistemological movement aimed at liberation and freedom for those people who experienced colonialism and who are today…' — Sabelo J. Ndlovu-Gatsheni Together, let us safeguard what we fought so hard for. This legacy is not guaranteed. It is fragile, and it is urgent. It must be preserved, protected, and passed on to future generations. Let us honour the legacy by carrying forward the mission. Let us lead with courage. Act with conscience. Live the Constitution in practice, not just in theory.
Press and Journal
06-05-2025
- Sport
- Press and Journal
Bridge of Don family celebrate Dons fan Fraser Duncan's kindness award for helping his grandad
When Greenbrae Primary pupil Fraser Duncan thought he had won a tour of Pittodrie he was already excited. But that was before the 10-year-old from Bridge of Don realised he was actually there to pick up an award. Helping grandad led to kindness award for Fraser Nominated for a Random Acts of Kindness prize by his mum, Dons fan Fraser was the only child to receive a trophy at a special evening recognising big-hearted Aberdeen fans. The initiative, organised by Berriedale Funeral Home, Gary Walker Wealth Management, and Aberdeen Football Club, saw scores of nominations come in for AFC supporters who had 'spread kindness' or who went 'the extra mile' for their communities. Fraser Duncan with mum Alison, with his RAOK award. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson 'I didn't think a child would win,' said Alison Duncan, a former secondary school teacher. 'But I thought it would be nice for me to tell Fraser I had nominated him. 'On the form I wrote about how he had been recognised at school for his kindness towards other pupils, and how he'd supported his grandfather throughout his battle with Alzheimer's. 'I was thrilled to hear Fraser had won. I'm so proud of him. The hardest part was keeping it a secret.' Special night was 'cool' surprise for Greenbrae pupil Dressed in his Dons shirt, Alison told Fraser he was going to the stadium for a behind-the-scenes tour. In reality they were heading for Pittodrie's Madri Lounge, where they met other winners and the likes of Aberdeen FC CEO Alan Burrows, and first-team star Dimitar Mitov. Fraser Duncan with AFC goalkeeper Mitov, in the Pittdorie locker room. 'Fraser recognised Mitov right away. It was an amazing night,' Alison added. But how was it for Fraser? 'Really cool. I was very surprised. 'And I was happy, especially because it was about my grandad.' 'Dad and Fraser had such a special bond' David Christie, Fraser's grandfather, sadly died last summer, but before he passed away Fraser became a special support to him. 'Dad's Alzheimer's was very tough to watch. Fraser always had a special bond with his grandad but he seemed to be able to connect to him in such a special way throughout this,' she explained. Little Fraser with his grandfather David Christie, from Montrose. 'I used to kick a ball back and forth with grandad, and even when he wasn't able to do that we would play catch,' said Fraser. 'He continued to recognise Fraser throughout his illness too. Their relationship was special.' 'He'll be in his element when he's Dons mascot' And Fraser's commitment to Alzheimer's doesn't end there. With the help of mum and dad, Gary – who works in oil and gas – Fraser has been writing books to sell to friends and family. Inspired by his snowman and penguin toys he's raised an impressive £30 already for Alzheimer's Research. Fraser with one of the books he's written to raise charity funds. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson As well as a glass trophy part of Fraser's prize is to be a mascot for the first team at a match. 'Fraser loves to collect autographs of his favourite players. He'll be in his element that day for sure,' added Alison. 'Giving back is what it's all about' Stephen Westall from Berriedale Funerals, who helped create the awards scheme, said he was delighted to see how much the award meant to Fraser. Kind-hearted Fraser Duncan from Greenbrae Primary School, Bridge of Don. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson 'That's what it's all about. We are thrilled to be able to put something back into our community. And to recognise the generosity and kindness of people like Fraser makes it even more special.' Read the story of Fraser's fellow winner, Jackie Moonie, here.
Yahoo
28-04-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Local nonprofit hits charitable high despite overall downward trend in donations
In a time when many nonprofits across the country are struggling to stay afloat amid turbulent political and economic pressures, one local grassroots group is moving in the opposite direction. Impact West Seattle, a collective that began in 2018, is celebrating a major milestone: surpassing $500,000 in total donations to area organizations. Using a model that relies on minimal volunteer time and pooling modest donations, Impact West Seattle is making a big impact. 'It was the culmination of a number of different conversations that were happening, and also a lot of people wanting to get involved and get together and feel connected and feel more part of a community,' Rachel Lazar, co-founder of Impact West Seattle, said about how the nonprofit got its start. 'My mom had been doing what's called a RAK group, or Random Acts of Kindness, and it's really just a smaller version of Impact West Seattle, where she would have a group of women over every month, they would each give like $20, end up giving a few hundred dollars to a nonprofit.' Lazar said its success stems from a simple yet powerful approach: members pool quarterly donations ($100 per member), then research, nominate, and vote on which organizations receive Impact West Seattle's grant. Those donations total about $20,000 each quarter. This most recent quarter, Impact West Seattle members were tasked with researching and nominating organizations that relieve food insecurities. Alimentando al Pueblo, a self-described community-building organization with a mission to heal people disproportionately impacted by systemic and historical economic disenfranchisement, was awarded Impact West Seattle's grant, which they said they will use to bolster their food bank operations. Alimentando al Pueblo was founded during the global COVID-19 pandemic. However, instead of thinking about each quarter in terms of grant winners and losers, Lazar said their model creates momentum for every nonprofit nominated. 'The ripple effect is one of the most powerful things,' Lazar said. 'It's not just the winner of the vote that benefits. All the nonprofits we feature gain exposure, supporters, and often long-term relationships with our members.' And, in at least two cases, Impact West Seattle members have become so inspired, they went to work for the nonprofits that were nominated. Impact West Seattle's success comes at a time when a majority of U.S. nonprofits said the current political climate is hindering their ability to carry out their missions, according to a new report from the Center for Effective Philanthropy. In a survey, 585 nonprofit leaders found that 85% have already felt negative impacts from recent political developments, and 94% expect further challenges ahead. Many pointed to changes in federal funding, political polarization, and uncertainty under the Trump administration. Lazar said Impact West Seattle's model allows members the flexibility to donate when they can and push pause when they need to. 'We created something simple and scalable—a space to connect, learn, and give without guilt or pressure,' Lazar said. 'I still believe inherently that people are good and want to help and do something. We leave these meetings feeling really good, like we've done something to help our community, which is such a rare feeling these days.' Impact's success may also be linked to the fact that it's a woman-led organization. According to the Women's Philanthropy Group, women now control 30% of global wealth and are using their growing influence to drive social change, while a recent study by Philanthropy Insiders found that women tend to prioritize community-focused giving and support causes that promote collective well-being. They're also more inclined toward trust-based philanthropy, favoring unrestricted gifts that give nonprofits the flexibility to meet their most urgent needs. Lazar said she is elated Impact West Seattle will surpass half a million dollars in total grant money at their next meeting, April 29. However, she and her fellow Board members already have their sights on raising their next half million. 'Seeing this big number is so exciting for all of us,' Lazar responded. 'It's a really exciting milestone and hopefully just the beginning of what's to come.' Interested in learning more about Impact West Seattle or starting a similar giving group? You can reach out directly at info@
USA Today
17-02-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Watch how one stranger made this boy's day with a Random Act of Kindness at the skate park!
Talk about a kickflip of fate! When TJ begged his mom to stop at a skatepark on their way home from picking up his bike from the shop, she had no clue what was about to unfold. TJ had been trying to learn some new tricks when suddenly a kind stranger stepped in to help the beginner master "dropping in" on his board. Amazed by the stranger's simple act of kindness, TJ's mom began to record the impromptu lesson. And in no time, TJ had learned the new tricks and was dropping in all on his own! Watch below to see how one stranger made this boy's day with a Random Act of Kindness at the skate park! "I was hanging out in the car watching and it was the sweetest thing" Mom remarked. "It warms my heart and I hope he remembers this for the rest of his life." Thanks to the stranger, TJ is grinding his way to pro boarder in no time! Watch below to see more Random Acts of Kindness videos! When it comes to kindness, little things can mean a lot. During Random Acts of Kindness Week, starting on February 9, we celebrate the many good deeds that help make the world a better place. The phrase 'practice random kindness and senseless acts of beauty' was coined in 1982 by magazine writer and editor Anne Herbert. Thirteen years later, her words inspired the creation of Random Acts of Kindness Week by the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation, encouraging people to be kind and pay it forward. There are many ways to participate in Random Acts of Kindness Week, from big gestures like donating blood to simpler acts like paying for a stranger's coffee or walking a friend's dog. Whatever you do, the goal is to make kindness the norm for the week and beyond, because we all benefit when kindness and generosity become a way of life. Check out our playlist of videos showcasing random acts of kindness in action. And don't forget to share your own acts of kindness with us on social media using the hashtag #RandomActsofHumankind. Humankindis your go-to spot for good news!Click hereto submit your uplifting, cute, or inspiring video moments for us to feature. Also,click here to subscribe to our newsletter, bringing our top stories of the week straight to your inbox.
USA Today
29-01-2025
- USA Today
Schools respond to ICE actions, high school fight arrests, Swift kiss for an Eagles fan
Schools respond to ICE actions, high school fight arrests, Swift kiss for an Eagles fan Hey, there, Small Wonder. Wake up and smell the roses. Or the coffee. Or something pleasant you prefer. (Roses last twice as long if you change the water every day and keep ice in it. That's a Valentine's Day tip at no additional charge.) Did you hear that Newark may get its first tattoo parlor? Here's another recent story about tattooing in Delaware's prisons. It's not two-for-Tuesday, but figured I'd throw that in. We are working hard on our pre-Super Bowl coverage, which we will be serving up for you up 'til kick off and beyond. Ryan Cormier offers this fun story today: A Delaware Eagles fan gets a Taylor Swift kiss. 'I will probably never wash my face again'. Here are some additional Bird-related links: Be sure follow Martin Frank's NFL coverage and to sign up for our Eye on the Eagles newsletter. And there's lots more where that came from! And now more news ... Delaware schools brace to protect students amid expanded ICE action under Trump Wide eyes looked up at her. Jennifer Nein had been searching for words all week. Maybe words could reassure fellow staff at North Georgetown Elementary as executive orders flow from a presidential inauguration. Maybe some words could calm children as young as 4 years old who don't feel safe coming to school, who don't know whether family will be home after the bell rings. 'I told them that I would not let anybody in this building that would hurt – that I'd go to jail before I let them touch their sweet little heads,' said the multi-language learning coordinator within Indian River schools. 'And one little boy said to me: 'You have big muscles?'' Read Kelly Powers' story to see how local schools are responding to President Trump's executive action and ICE. Also worth your time … Breaking news: Police arrest 6 students after a fight broke out in Delaware high school Entertainment: Longwood Gardens crushes attendance record, offers winter adventures Development: What happened when new Sussex County councilman proposed moratorium on major subdivisions Real estate: Delaware home sales up 20% in December while prices rise 5% compared with previous year News Quiz: Raw milk laws and another Dave Portnoy review. Try this week's news quiz Gallery of the day: Man shot by Wilmington police during drug investigation on city's East Side Sports: Dover's Buttillo honored for return to lacrosse, football despite serious crash injuries What's going there, Delaware? Reporter Molly McVety always has her eye on development in the First State. Her weekly newsletter What's Going There, Delaware and the Facebook group by the same name offer a forum for development news, trends and interaction with you, our readers. Check it out. And you can always report development news to Molly at mmcvety@ Random Acts of Kindness We are happy to introduce our new monthly column, Random Acts of Kindness by Krys'tal Griffin: 'Whatever possessed them to be so kind?': Delaware man recounts strangers who helped him Do you know someone who made a difference to someone when they really needed it? Is there a Good Samaritan you'd like to see highlighted, someone who offered a kindness, that made a difference for you, or made someone's life a little better in Delaware? Random Acts of Kindness aims to share these stories. If you know someone deserving of a story, email Krys'tal Griffin at kgriffin@delawareonline with as much information as you can provide. Note to readers Daily Briefing is your first stop for top Delaware news, a friendly guide to other Delaware Online services – our best projects, digital archives, e-edition, online puzzles and comics, polls, regional and seasonal guides, award-winning photos and videos, social media highlights & more. This is your morning briefing. We strive to make it engaging, useful and informative. Thank you to our readers who support us as subscribers, making our local coverage of your community possible. Check out our Subscribers Guide. ⭐ Get out: Delaware's top concerts in February 2025 🍳 Comfort food: Mission BBQ in Milltown to open in the coming weeks. Here are the details 🧩 Brain teaser: Make magic with Mahjongg Dimensions ✈️ Get away: Wilmington Airport offers flights to New Orleans for Super Bowl 59. Here are the details 🥾 Get moving: You can still ice skate at Twin Lakes 🛠️ Problem solved: Set up your kitchen with these fun gadgets 💗 Give back: How and where to donate blood in Delaware in 2025 And now, more news we don't want you to miss …
