In honor of co-founder Mary Jane Leader, Country Meadows Retirement Communities and Ecumenical Retirement Community have designated April as Practice Random Acts of Kindness Month. Mrs. Leader and her husband, the late Gov. George M. Leader, founded the organizations upon treating people with kindness.
Residents at Country Meadows of West Shore in Mechanicsburg pass out notes of inspiration and candy “hugs and kisses” to random shoppers.
During this month, and always, Country Meadows and Ecumenical Retirement Community encourages co-workers, residents and their families, to remember the little things that can truly brighten someone’s day, and invite all to commit a kind act. Random acts of kindness can be as simple as smiling at a stranger, helping someone with their groceries or just paying a visit.
“I am encouraged and inspired when I observe and everyday act of kindness—big or small—by a co-worker or a stranger. It reminds me of my parents’ compassion and what they instilled in my family and in turn, the Country Meadows culture,” says President & CEO Michael Leader, Country Meadows Retirement Communities.
Acts of kindness aren’t about money, or even planning. It’s about finding a moment to make a small difference in another person’s life. Some ideas from Country Meadows residents and co-workers include:
• Passing out flowers to random shoppers at a local grocery store.
• Returning a shopping cart to the store.
• Picking up the tab for the car behind you in a drive-thru line.
• Giving busy clerks a smile.
• Sharing your umbrella.
York campus residents made grilled sheese sandwiches and served them to clients at a local homeless shelter.
“I recently learned about a kind act at our York campus. A resident was waiting to meet her friend for their weekly lunch out during which the friend always treats. One of our drivers, aware of this ritual, greeted her as usual and chatted with her until her friend arrived. Right before the ladies left, he gave the resident $20 so she could treat her friend that day!” says Leader, “The resident was moved to tears and smiled from ear to ear. What a simple yet beautiful way to express his compassion.”
Everyone is encouraged to join in the kindness. Start by stopping the front desk of your local Country Meadows Retirement Community or Ecumenical Retirement Community, where you can pick up free window clings and bumper stickers displaying this simple yet powerful message. Kindness cards also are available to give to those in need of a pick-me-up.
If you would like to share an act you observed or one in which you practiced, please share it with us at Kindness@CountryMeadows.com or Kindness@EcumenicalRetirement.org.