Twenty-nine years and still going strong.
Monday (March 3) marks the beginning of Violence Awareness & Random Acts of Kindness Week in the Quinte region.
The week began in 1997 in memory of 18-year-old Mark Fyke, a Belleville high school student, who was killed while on vacation in Florida due to a senseless act of violence.
Also remembered are Belleville teens Becky Middleton and Shawn Keegan who were also victims of violence in 1996.
Special events are planned all week long and Kindness Crews will be out with surprises in communities throughout the area.
The events are listed below.
-
Monday March 3 – Community Candle Light Vigil
Please take a moment to light a candle and observe a minute of silence at 7:00 p.m. in remembrance of all victims of violence.
-
Tuesday March 4 – Kindness when you least expect it!
On Tuesday. and throughout the week, Kindness Crews will be passing on acts of kindness and appreciation. Areas targeted this year by the Kindness Crews include, Belleville, Trenton, Madoc, Marmora, Wellington, Bloomfield, Picton, Consecon, Frankford and Stirling. Chris Macdonald also stressed, “If you receive a random act of kindness, please pass the kindness on, remember kindness is contagious!” Special thanks to Lactalis Canada (Black Diamond) and Hawkins Cheezies for their generous donations to our Kindness Crews.
-
Wednesday March 5 – Blue Ribbon of Hope Day
Everyone is encouraged to prominently display and wear their Blue Ribbons of hope and if you do not have one, please wear blue to symbolize kindness.
-
Thursday March 6 – Thankful Thursday
Take some time out of your day to text, message or call and thank someone who has touched your life with their kindness.
-
Friday March 7 – Friendly Friday
Surprise a family member, friend or neighbour with an inspirational note, flowers, an email, a card or some other act of kindness to let them know how much you appreciate them.
-
Saturday March 8 – Selection of Kindness Citizen of the Year Award
Nominate someone who has touched you by their kindness. Local newspaper ballots can be submitted to Quinte Mall Guest Services or emailed to qteservice@primarisreit.com. Online ballots are available at www.varak.ca This award is sponsored by Quinte Mall and Charm Diamonds Centre. Nominations must be received by Friday March 7, 2025. The Kindness Citizen of the Year will have their name displayed on digital signs throughout Quinte Mall and will also receive an award and gifts in recognition of their kindness.
-
Sunday March 9 – Random Acts of Kindness Day
Any act of kindness, no matter how small, can have the greatest impact and proves that angels truly are among us.
The VARAK program is offered to 59 area elementary schools and 14 high schools and is made possible by the overwhelming generosity and support of service clubs, local businesses and other organizations within the greater Quinte community.
Remember the only thing better than receiving an act of kindness, is giving one!
