Random Acts of Kindness at H.O.M.E.
The eminently reliable source Wikipedia describes a random act of kindness as “a selfless act performed by a person or people wishing either to assist or to cheer up an individual person or people.” A very dry definition, that – I think this quote says it better:
“Three things in human life are important; the first is to be kind; the second is to be kind; and the third is to be kind.” – Henry James
When I think of random acts of kindness, I think of the evening that I was providing staff coverage at the Pat Crowley House. One by one, the residents came by the office to check on me and to ask if I needed anything. Judy even offered me a kiwi! I have so often seen our residents check on their neighbors and offer their support to one another, and it felt wonderful to receive that same kindness.
During Random Acts of Kindness Week (February 9 – February 15), other members of the H.O.M.E. family shared their favorite kind acts:
Noel, Chicago Cares volunteer group leader: “It warms my heart to hear the current residents still talking about [residents no longer at H.O.M.E.] and the memories they shared.”
Mary, Shared Living Coordinator at Nathalie Salmon House: “When we got the blizzard a couple weeks ago and the staff members were all working to clear the sidewalks and curbs, Tim (resident) cleared some snow that accumulated on the 5th floor shared patio, rather than having his neighbors have to step through the snow. He noted, ‘We all have to do what we can for each other’. And whenever Brian (resident) goes to the store, he is sure to check with others if they need anything, saying, ‘Well, as long as I’m going out, I want to help someone if they don’t feel up to it.’”
Amber, Director of Development: Noting that “We are so grateful for the kindness behind every gift we receive [at H.O.M.E.]”, Amber mentions some highlights:
- Gifts in honor of loved ones or our staff are always special
- Pat Crowley House residents held a rummage sale last year and gave the proceeds to H.O.M.E. in the form of a check from “Patches Crowley”, a former canine resident of PCH
Donna, Nathalie Salmon House resident: “It’s nice to get food donations from Whole Foods because they always bring sweet treats and fresh fruits and vegetables.”
Kevin, Business Manager: “When I visit Pat Crowley House on business, the door is often answered by a resident, who comes down a flight of stairs to greet me.”
Would you like to give and receive random acts of kindness? Click the link below to find out more about getting involved with H.O.M.E.
Are you already involved? Share some of your experiences with us in the comments or on Facebook!
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