Good Deeds Day is coming soon but it is not too late to join with people in your community and around the world in this international day of volunteering and doing good.
While Good Deeds Day started in just one country – Israel – in 2007 by businesswoman and philanthropist Shari Arison. Her mission was to encourage people to volunteer and to make a positive impact on the world.
“I believe that if people will think good, speak good and do good, the circles of goodness will grow in the world,” said Arison.
The idea of this day of altruism was so successful that it went global in 2011. Now, in its 18th year, there are millions of people from 115 countries participating. That’s because doing good resonates for so many people. It is especially relevant this year with all the global strife, the dire effects of climate change, and people who are in need.
You can find inspiration from one of these seven last minute ideas to plan your own project or join one of the events near you.
Create Ripples of Kindness
One good deed leads to another, especially if you start a chain of kindness by paying for the order behind you in the fast-food drive-through or at your local coffee shop. The longest pay it forward chain lasted two days with over 3,600 people participating, according to the Live for Another kindness community.
Plant Trees to Take Care of the Earth
Trees are very important for the health and wellbeing of people, animals and the planet. That’s because they provide food, improve the soil, give shelter, and provide shade. Planting trees is so important that Kenya has a tree planting holiday to celebrate reforestation. Organize your own tree planting or join one planned for your community.
Bring Diapers and Baby Wipes to a Food Pantry
Many people donate canned goods to food drives or to their local food bank. But while nourishment is available, people need help with baby items too. Diapers and wipes are not covered by government agencies. If there is no dedicated diaper bank in your area, you can start a diaper drive or bring these baby essentials to a food pantry near you on Good Deeds Day.
Bring Toys for Shelter Pets
Bringing toys, or treats, to a shelter dog or cat will brighten their lives. You can start a pet drive in your workplace, local library, or school. After dropping off the goodies, stay and play with the animals. Better yet adopt or foster one of the fur babies.
Donate Blood and Save a Life
Giving blood or plasma helps to save lives. When you donate blood, make sure you sign up for reminders to give again. You can also donate blood marrow if you match a person who needs a transplant. Another way to save lives is to sign up to be an organ donor. These are the kindest acts you can do.
Organize a Meditation Session
Give the gift of calm on Good Deeds Day by organizing a meditation session in a local park. Even just meditating for five minutes can help you get your Zen on and reduce stress. If you prefer calming yoga poses, you can organize a free yoga session instead.
Help Feed the Hungry
There are many ways to help food insecure people. You can donate food or volunteer to serve at a local soup kitchen. Make sure to sign up in advance. You can volunteer to deliver Meals on Wheels to seniors. Or you can make sandwiches to give to homeless people. There are many Good Deeds Day projects that help with food insecurity all around the world.
Good Deeds Day, an annual global day of doing good, is the pinnacle of doing good year-round. Initiated in 2007 by business woman and philanthropist Shari Arison, Good Deeds Day has grown to 110 countries with millions of participants. Good Deeds Day 2024 will take place on April 14.
