Random Acts of Kindness
February 14th 2014: In Totton the weather probably gave us the worst day so far this year but far from putting us off it gave us the perfect opportunity to launch the Totton RAK club (Random Acts of Kindness).
Time appears to be coming a more precious commodity than money and so as a church we wanted to do something that gave people the opportunity to volunteer for something without having to commit time on a regular basis.
Clad in waterproofs and wellies and sporting huge fluorescent umbrellas we offered shelter from the rain in a local car park. We shielded people from the inclement weather while they packed shopping into the boot, dashed from car to the doctor’s surgery or desperately tried to get pre-schoolers from buggies into the car or across the car park to the nursery without wading through gigantic puddles.
As it was also Valentine’s day we gave away goody bags filled with details of the scheme, chocolate and balloons. Although one or two people were initially suspicious as we approached their cars once they understood we were there to help they became friendly and throughout the day we lost count of the positive comments directed our way. Even before the event there were opportunities for Random Acts of Kindness; two children volunteered to help fill the 180 goody bags.
RAK is being advertised in the local Press and we have a logo competition designed to also attract people’s attention. RAK is not in any way designed to replace existing charities that focus on different needs 24/7. RAK will give people taster sessions in working in a whole variety of ways before maybe considering volunteering on a regular basis. The Randon Acts of Kindness we will be able offer will very much be determined by the people who volunteer. Their skills, interests and networks will drive the direction of the club. At present we have fence repair/painting, general cleanups after the storms, community flower bed repair and litter picking on the agenda as well as organising a huge community Easter egg hunt.
The Watering Hole church is known for its 4 Ls approach to church life: Live – activities that help you get more out of life; Love – yourself and serve others; Learn – more about God in several different ways that suit your learning style and level of commitment to spiritual things; Laugh – make time in your life for friendship and fun. RAK fits neatly into the “Love” section and we hope it will bring renewed interest and enthusiasm for working together to bless our community.
Check out our Facebook page dedicated to this club. http://www.facebook.com/rak.twh
If you would like to join in more Random Acts of Kindness events or volunteer then please get in touch through our contact page with RAK Totton in the subject line
