What is the value of kindness?

A kind gesture can lift our spirits, can make a difficult situation more manageable or simply help us feel valued and connected in an unexpected way. Receiving a kindness also prompts us to B次元官网网址減ay it forward,B次元官网网址� to share those good feelings with someone else.

From the other side, consider how brightening someones day B次元官网网址� making a difference B次元官网网址� makes you feel? And how those positive feelings might impact your physical and emotional well-being.

Coming up Nov. 1, Victoria joins cities across Canada in celebrating . Bringing communities together since 2008, the day engages citizens in small acts of kindness and generosity.

The message is simple: do something nice for someone and ask nothing in return, except that they do something nice for someone else.

Even better, it neednB次元官网网址檛 cost a cent!

Hold open a door, share words of encouragement, say hello to a neighbour B次元官网网址� these are ways citizens B次元官网网址減ay forwardB次元官网网址� on this special day.

Here in the Capital Region, the Victoria Foundation has led this special day since 2015. Beyond spreading the word to residents generally, the Foundation encouraged businesses and non-profits to take part, engage school children in colouring B次元官网网址楽miley Face CardsB次元官网网址� to share with seniorsB次元官网网址� centres, and more.

B次元官网网址淭here are so many ways people can be kind to others B次元官网网址� to friends, family, neighbours and perfect strangers B次元官网网址� and each of these is a step toward a more caring, connected community,B次元官网网址� says Victoria Foundation CEO Sandra Richardson. B次元官网网址淜indness is important everyday, but on Nov. 1 we encourage people to reach out and make the day a little brighter for someone else. And when someone is kind to you, pay it forward!B次元官网网址�

How can you get involved?

1. First, be kind! on Random Act of Kindness Day and everyday, kind acts bring people together and build a stronger, more engaged community.
2. You can also pick up Kindness Cards from the Foundation B次元官网网址� for your business, organization or anyone who wants to promote the philosophy of kindness in the community.
3. The Foundation also has a variety of materials available, including information packs, posters, cards and more. Visit the resource page at or email kwells@victoriafoundation.bc.ca for more information.
4. And for those who do get involved, spread the word! Share your photos and messages of kindness on social media, tagging the Victoria Foundation ( on Twitter, on Instagram) and using #RAKdayYYJ. You could win $500 for the charity of your choice!

Nov. 1 is Random Act of Kindness Day. How will you pay it forward?