Call for ‘acts of kindness’ stories snowballs
Dec. 2, 2021 | By Ariel Mondlak
Mike Place received multiple nominations for his ability as one nominator put it, to “find joy in his work and make the customers feel at home” at PK Coffee. Photo by Ariel Mondlak, RW
When Revitalizing Waterbury put out a call for folks to share examples of acts of kindness in our community a few weeks ago, we never could have imagined all the amazing stories!
We asked people to nominate anyone who has a positive impact on Waterbury, and planned to thank 25 individuals with a $25 gift card to a local business. The first heartwarming story came in within hours of launching the program, and it snowballed from there with 60 nominations for individuals who make a difference in the community, whether seen or unseen, small or large, kids or adults.
The idea picked up traction with not one, but two news stories on WCAX. In one final act of kindness, Ivy Computer generously donated money so that all nominees received a gift card or $25 in Waterbury Bucks to support local businesses, as well as a personalized thank you card written by a member of the Revitalizing Waterbury board of directors.
Waterbury Service Center owner Al Caron received multiple nominations for organizing Thanksgiving dinners and scenic bus tours for seniors, leading the Boy Scouts, working hard for his customers, and “brightening Main Street with his welcoming and friendly manner,” according to one fan. Photo by Ariel Mondlak, RW
The submissions speak volumes about the kindness that can be found around every corner in Waterbury. The breadth of nominations is incredible, and goes to show that people can make a huge difference with some of the smallest acts, or simply by doing what they do anyway.
One of the sweetest nominations was for a 7-year-old nicknamed the “Book Santa,” because she loves to visit the little free libraries around Waterbury, organize them, and stock them with reading materials for other kids to enjoy. Another young person nominated their parents for their help with homework, problem-solving, home-cooked meals, support at the sidelines of sports games, and more.
Many members of the school community were nominated, including teachers, nurses, administrators, and even the crossing guard. There were stories about the teacher who ensured that there was always a “class snack stash so that ALL kids could have an extra snack at the end of the day” and the nurses across the district who tended to the physical and mental health of students during a challenging time.
Many of the staff and counselors at the Waterbury Recreation Department were also nominated for their outstanding commitment and care during the summer camps and afterschool programs, making it clear that the kids of this community are in good hands.
Darren Rooney walks his dog Marta around town and “if there is litter on the ground, he picks it up - every time,” according to the nomination naming him. Photo by Ariel Mondlak, RW
Several people were nominated for making the town a more beautiful place, whether by picking up trash while walking their dog, cleaning up debris from a car accident at the roundabout, tending gardens and planting flowers, hanging garlands, or putting up the Valentine hearts with kind words that can be spotted around town each year.
People were nominated for always having a smile on their face, lending a listening ear, “helping whoever they cross paths with,” or “supporting a local family when they needed it most.” One person was recognized for helping a new neighbor with dementia by giving them rides when needed and connecting with their family.
Individuals at countless businesses and organizations around town received acknowledgement, including folks behind the scenes and at the counters or front lines. These wonderful people were nominated for their “willingness to lend a hand to their neighbors,” “leadership and good humor,” and “creativity, passion, tireless service, and inclusion of all.”
Pack and Send Plus new co-owner Tyler Keefe was recognized as a “friendly, helpful guy who works on many projects to help Waterbury out.” Photo by Ariel Mondlak, RW
Stories mentioned people who have “a very sincere concern about their patrons, and the town as a whole,” or a “friendly demeanor, making the environment welcoming for everyone.” Other individuals were recognized for “fighting tirelessly and fearlessly for social justice,” “having a passion for sharing their knowledge,” and “giving selflessly to our town and doing it with a smile.”
The stories go on, but one line stood out as words that can be applied to all of these amazing individuals: “They take the time to remember what’s truly important - kindness.” We are so grateful to have all of these kind and caring folks in our community.
Ariel Mondlak is the marketing associate at Revitalizing Waterbury, the local nonprofit community development organization.