Acts of Kindness Encouraged for Jan. 5 Day of Service

Several civic-minded Aroostook County organizations are encouraging people to give back in their communities with acts of kindness on the Day of Service for Maine Citizens happening on January 5.

The United Way of Aroostook, Aroostook County Action Program and the Presque Isle Rotary and Kiwanis clubs are hoping this Day of Service will remind people how small acts of kindness can have big impacts. It can also help promote an entire year of giving. Sherry Locke, the Executive Director of United Way of Aroostook, says it’s the small things that count.

“United Way of Aroostook encourages individuals, families, businesses and civic organizations to ‘Give Where They Live’ each and every day. When we think of giving we typically think of monetary gifts and although those are very important to the work we do, we also recognize the importance of giving of your time and acts of kindness that can make our communities stronger. Hold the door open for someone, return a cart for someone at the store, or even just share your smile.”

For people who may be looking to do something on a bit of a larger scale, there are many other ideas to consider, including, dropping off some baked treats at your local fire or police station, registering for a day to prepare a meal at the county homeless shelter, contacting an animal shelter to walk dogs or spend time with the animals, shoveling the steps and walk path for a neighbor, checking in on someone who lives alone, or delivering some food to your local food cupboard. The list is endless.

Locke adds a simple act of kindness can cause a ripple effect throughout the community.