This year, Good Deeds Day is celebrated on April 3 but it’s not too late to get on board and join millions of others around the globe in participating in this annual day of altruism.
Good Deeds Day was founded in 2007 by philanthropist and businesswoman Shari Arison, and has grown into a global movement with 108 countries participating. “I believe that if people will think good, speak good and do good, the circles of goodness will grow in the world,” Arison said.
You can find inspiration from one of these seven last minute projects or get ideas from around the world to help you plan your own project or to join one near you.
Organize a Good Deeds Day Yoga Session
You can organize a free yoga session for teachers or nurses in person outdoors or through Zoom. Spread the word through social media and give the gift of calm and relaxation to the people who do so much good every day.
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Collect Toiletries for a Woman’s Shelter
Start collecting toiletries or hygiene products for a woman’s shelter (or for refugees in your area) on Good Deeds Day. It’s really easy, just contact an organization to help, arrange a collection place, leave a box, put up notices and advertise online, and arrange for delivery or pick-up of the items you collect. You can also donate these items to a local food pantry along with baby products like diapers and wipes.
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Kindness Chain
Pay for the person’s breakfast at your local coffee shop or at the drive through. Or bring coffee for a co-worker and ask him to pay it forward. One act of kindness leads to another and you can be the catalyst for good in the world.
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Become an Organ Donor
Give the gift of life and become an organ donor. According to the American Society of Transplantation, there are approximately 116,000 people in the US on transplant waiting lists. In some states, like New York, all you need to do is sign your driver’s license. Check your state or country’s guidelines to find out how you can become a donor. You can also donate bone marrow or blood to help save lives.
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Make Someone Smile With Flowers
Hand out flowers to people on the street or deliver bouquets to care homes for the residents or emergency room nurses – just be sure to check ahead about Covid-19 restrictions— and help them have a brighter day. Smiles are contagious so share some today!
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Recycle
Put your bottles and cans in the recycling bin. You can even bring one into work and encourage your co-workers to recycle in the office. Good Deeds Day supports the UN’s sustainable Development Goals for climate action and taking care of the environment and you can help by doing your part.
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Foster or Adopt a Pet
You can help dogs and cats by agreeing to foster one from an animal rescue or shelter. Or better yet, adopt a fur baby for yourself. Pets come with a host of benefits from being less lonely, to reducing stress as well as actually helping your health. If you can’t commit to bringing a pet home, you can volunteer to walk dogs and cuddle kittens at your local animal shelter.
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