'Random Act of Kindness' Contest Raises Anti-Bullying Awareness

A statewide contest plans to create anti-bullying messages across Rhode Island.

All middle school and high school students in the state have the chance to win cash prizes and an invitation to the Community Against Bullying in Schools’ annual gala.

The contest theme is “Random Act of Kindness.”

One random act of kindness a day could make a huge difference in other people’s lives, according to the Community Against Bullying in Schools website.

“If we all help one person feel better, help one person feel that they matter, then we have not just saved one life, but the lives of all those that they might have hurt if pain and sadness pushed them too far,” the organization wrote on its website.

Community Against Bullying in Schools (CABINS) is a nonprofit organization that raises money to spread awareness of bullying in local schools.

To enter, Middle schoolers can submit photographs that depicts acts of kindness, using Instagram, done in “meme” style. Photographs should include a quote or caption.

High schoolers can submit a 15-second video that depicts acts of kindness, using Instagram. Videos should include a poem, song or any writing that describes a random act of kindness.

All entries must be original ideas. Anyone who plagiarizes will be disqualified.

Here are a few ways to display a “Random Act of Kindness”:

CABINS will put the photographs and video entries on its website and social media accounts and will display the content at future events such as the annual spring gala. All entries must include a signed release of all persons displayed in the images or videos.

Students can hashtag #CABINSRI to help spread the theme of kindness across social media.

Send entries to CABINS via email, atentry@CABINSRI.org, by Friday, Feb. 6. Entries should include the student’s name, school and contact information.

The organization’s annual spring gala will raise funds to support anti-bullying programs in middle schools and high schools across Rhode island. The gala will be held on Sunday, March 29 at the Kirkbrae Country Club in Lincoln. There will be food, dancing, a silent auction, gift baskets, sports memorabilia and more from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $50. Buy tickets on the CABINS website.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

View image | gettyimages.com