Do you think you can't make a big impact with a simple sticky note?
Think again.
Otterbein PRSSA's Random Acts of Kindness campaign last week had the campus buzzing with quick and painless ideas to "pay it forward." The campaign, in conjunction with the national Random Acts of Kindness Foundation, was meant to brighten even the gloomiest days through spreading kindness to others around Otterbein.
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With its own Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube accounts, this kindness campaign has definitely gathered plenty of attention, though perhaps the most popular part is the "Post and Pay It Forward" event, which started last Monday – hundreds of neon Post-Its with kind sayings do not go unnoticed. Lining the stairs of the campus center, these positive notes were meant to be taken and given away, inspiring happiness and more random acts of kindness.
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"Yesterday a friend gave me a post-it from the wall. 'Magical' it read. Today I was inspired to do something magical. I added money to all of the expired meters in the parking lot I'm in," said senior Liz Watts on the Facebook wall of the PRSSA campaign.
These random acts have continued all week, with an event for each day:?Monday – "Post and Pay It Forward,"?Tuesday – "Random Acts of Appreciation,"?Wednesday – "Be Kind, Recycle,"?Thursday – "Tunnel of Hope: Giving Back to the Community,"?and Friday – "Pass on the Kindness and 'Random Acts of Kindness Event.'"
Throughout the week, students were encouraged to film their Random Acts and submit them to the YouTube channel to inspire further acts of kindness. At the event this past Friday, two baskets were given away, both worth $50.
Despite the appeal of material prizes, those not seen are much more sought after. "I think this is a great idea because it gives people an opportunity to give back to people who have helped them in the past," said Matt Taylor.
Though the Random Acts of Kindness is only officially on campus for one week, "The ultimate goal is not to be kind for a week, but everyday."
