Daily Acts of Kindness

It takes so little to do so much...

In our fast-paced world, we sometimes forget that we have the power to help others in simple, inexpensive ways. Making a difference in the life of another person is easy to do. Here are a few suggestions for making today better for someone else:

When shopping, buy a couple of extra non-perishable food items and take them to the Foodbank or a local food pantry.
Let other drivers merge into traffic ahead of you and when someone lets you in--give a wave of thanks.
Adopt a class at an elementary school and donate school supplies, such as backpacks, paper and pencils.
Pick up trash wherever you see it.
Give blood.
Invite members of our military for a holiday dinner if they are unable to go home.
Assemble and deliver a basket of vegetables, fruit or a few flowers for a homebound person.
Sew, knit, or crochet comfort items -- small quilts, hats, or booties for the local hospital.
Hold the door open for the person behind you.
Ask to visit a nursing home resident who never gets visitors---and take flowers.
In the fast food drive-through, pay the bill of the person behind you.
Ask a homebound or elderly neighbor if there is anything you can pick up for them at the grocery store.
Ask your children to go through their toys and donate some of them to those who are less fortunate.
Get together with friends and make minor repairs or wash windows for an elderly neighbor.
Smile and say, “hello” to the other people sharing your elevator.
Keep a few small umbrellas in your car to give away to people in need on the next rainy day.
Thank the person who bags your groceries.
Write a thank-you note to someone who has influenced your life in a positive way.
Leave an extra big tip for a waiter or waitress.
Donate your old cell phone to a domestic violence shelter.
Put together an emergency or disaster kit for an elderly neighbor or a single mom.

Got more ideas? Let us know! E-mail your favorite act of kindness and we'll include it on our list.