Richards organizes first Kindness Week

Whether one believes the world has become more divided or could always use a little more love, Kindness Week at Richards High School arrived at just the right time.

In the past Leo Club, a service organization and the Richards affiliate of the Lions Club of Oak Lawn, organized an Act of Kindness Bingo Event over spring break. Members completed acts of kindness, each of which were displayed on bingo cards.

This year faculty sponsor Karen Lavin chose to expand to a Kindness Week so the entire school could experience it.

“Kindness Week shows students that they have the opportunity and power within them to make kindness happen, that it’s not something that just comes around from time to time. They can choose to do it,” she said.

Each day presented a kindness challenge.

“We had Caught in the Act day where teachers were on the lookout for kids being kind. Students received Caught in the Act cards that they could use for entry into a gift card raffle,” she said. “This was such a hit that we extended it for several days to give more students opportunities to be recognized for practicing kindness.

Richards organized ‘thank you note stations’ in the cafeteria and main office for students and staff to share their gratitude with others.

“We also participated in Beam of Light Day, which included sharing small gifts to brighten another person’s day,” Lavin said.

Lavin asked students to share their thoughts on the experience.

“Completing the kindness bingo was actually a lot easier that I thought, in a good way. When I got my sheet I thought that there were honestly a lot of acts that I had to complete. When I started completing them however, I realized how easy they were to complete. This made me realize that it does not take much to be kind. Kindness is not something that is hard to achieve, and it can easily be exercised every day,” said one.

“After completing a variety of acts of kindness this week, I felt satisfaction in knowing I helped others have a good week. I felt more positive and enjoyed cheering up my peers. I will continue to spread acts of kindness day in and day out,” said another.

Kindness Week inspired reflection.

“I’ve never thought to intentionally go out of my way to complete kindness like I did these days. Usually when I’m going about my day, I would be kind whenever I would have the chance. With this bingo sheet, I was actively paying attention and would go out of my way to be kind. I felt really fulfilled and enjoyed going out of my way for people,” said a third student.

“Completing this kindness bingo card really made me realize how easy kindness can be and how refreshed it makes you feel. Knowing you did something nice and probably made someone’s day can make you feel good about yourself too,” said another.