Some of my recent random acts:

I joined a mask sewing group where we collectively sewed over 1000 masks and donated them to Senior Care Centers and Hospitals in the NW Suburban Chicago Area.  It involved many hours of sewing and driving around to other women's homes, to drop off and pick up supplies and completed masks.

I joined a group on facebook that donated make-up bags to fill with toiletries for homeless women in an area of California that the group admin lives.  Because I work for a rather large school district near Chicago, I was able to request new or unused bags from my colleagues and mailed over 100 of them to CA. 

Whenever I go through the McDonalds drive-through (which is more often like I care to admit) I always pay for the person behind me.  I hope it brings them a little happiness.

There is a homeless man who stands at the exit ramp of an expressway that I take to visit my daughter.  I always hope to see him and when I do, I give him whatever cash I have, and have also bought a stack of gift cards from McDonalds that I keep in my car in case I don't have cash.  This past Christmas, I wrapped a gift for him: some men's hand sanitizer and soap and had it my car for a few weeks, and worried because I hadn't seen him in awhile.  Luckily I saw him before Christmas and was able give him his gift and he said "God Bless You" to which I replied "God Bless you as well, love you and stay safe".  It always disappoints me when I see that I am the only one rolling down my window, but the other day the guy ahead of me handed him some cash, but then the light turned green and I had to go, but I waved to him and he recognized me!  Sorry for rambling on this particular topic, but I really feel for this man and this hard journey he has to endure.

God Bless,
Linda
Chicago, IL


From anonymous:

Every year my city has a giving drive.  They set up a web site and bunches of charities post about their project.  People can then choose which to support.  This year I made donations to a group providing medical care for at risk and low income populations and another which keeps a food pantry stocked at our local state college. 


From Jenni:

For me, one of the highlights of running this site is communicating with other fans about charities they support and causes they feel passionate about.  One cause that comes up quite often is the plight of women throughout the world.  A longtime friend and fellow fan told me about a group her parents work with that tries to combat child marriage.  This has long been a cause that spoke to me because I simply can't imagine being forced to marry someone that one didn't love... especially as a child.  So, thanks to a tip from my friend, I was able to make a donation to the charity and look forward to following its progress and mission.From Jenni:

I made a donation to Big Brothers, Big Sisters in honor of some friends.  I also donated to a friend's campaign for Relay for Life.


From Anonymous:

While at the store, I let a gentleman cut in front of me in line because he had only a couple of items and I had a cart full.  It just seemed like common sense to me but I was really touched by how pleased he was.  He thanked me several times.  It really is the little things!


From Anonymous:

I donated to my workplace's fundraiser for a local food pantry.  


From Jenni:

I spent John's birthday weekend making fleece blankets.  Unlike those I've made before, I decided to hang onto these so I always have some at the ready for when friends, family, or strangers might need one.


From Susan:

The other day, I went to the bank. This is the same bank that I usually go to, and I often see a teller in there named Elena, who I think is from Russia. I have been going to this particular branch of the bank for a couple of years, and I have noticed that whenever Elena waits on me - or anyone else - her face lights up with one of the most genuine, beautiful, loving smiles I have ever seen. Her smile could light up an entire room.  She is also very patient and kind, going out of her way if you need help with something.  Her gentle, humble, loving soul shines right through her.  And I believe that only God's Holy Spirit can make a person like that.

After she was finished handling my transaction, I knew I had to finally say something to her about it. So I said, "Elena, I just have to tell you, that you have such a beautiful smile, and it makes your entire face light up. And every time I come into this bank and see your smile - you make me feel so good inside. You have the face of an angel, and you are always so kind to me. If only there were more people in the world like you."

Elena was very moved by what I told her, and I could see the tears in her eyes. She reached over the counter and squeezed my hand. I became teary-eyed, too. If we didn't have the counter between us, I would have given her a hug.  I felt SO good that I finally told this beautiful soul what a positive effect she has had on me. I also plan on telling the bank manager about Elena, and hopefully he will, in some way, acknowledge her value as an employee.

I have been making a habit of doing this kind of thing for several years now. And I always get the same response. People are stunned to be told such a thing...to be acknowledged and appreciated. Their eyes often fill with tears, and then I give them a hug, and it's wonderful...it's so healing...our souls need that so badly...it is a glimpse of our Heavenly Father's beautiful, loving Spirit, I believe.

If you ever come across someone who is especially kind to you, and goes out of their way to help you, or even if you simply feel touched by their smile - please TELL them about it. They need to hear it. It will make them feel so good - and YOU, too. Don't allow your shyness to stop you.  We need to encourage them to continue to be a shining light in a dark world...as God's own Holy Spirit reaches out to people, through other people.

Considering all the turmoil I've been through in the past couple of weeks, Elena's smile was like a healing balm to my soul.

Both Elena's smile, and my acknowledgement of it - reminds me of something that Mother Teresa said - "We can't all do great things, but we can do small things with great love."


From Cindy:

I donated toys for Christmas gifts to a shelter for abused women's children.


From Anonymous:

I donated some blankets to people who needed some holiday cheer and supported small businesses and artisans by purchasing several Christmas gifts from them instead of large corps.  I also participated in a pet store's fundraiser which involved raising money for animals and also donating a plush toy to a child in need. 


This November, I donated to Catholic Relief Services’ fund for typhoon recovery in the Philippines.  I also bought some toys and art supplies for inclusion in my work place’s shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child.
 
God bless,
Jenni

From Anonymous:

A few years back, a co-worker was killed by a drunk driver.  In her memory, I donated to a fundraiser for an organization that combats drunk driving.


From Jenni:

My workplace collected toiletries for donation to various shelters so I participated in that and when I mentioned it to my mom she donated some things, too! 

Also, I've started carrying pocket crosses I made along with my PIF angels.  A couple weeks ago, I was checking out at a store and the cashier started venting about some things going on with her family.  I could tell she was pretty distressed so, when I noticed she had a cross necklace, I gave her one of my pocket crosses and told her I'd be praying about her situation. 


From Anonymous:

I helped sponsor my cousins in a walk to raise money for their grade school and made a pledge towards the goal of a friend walking for NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness). 


From Anonymous:

I made a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project.  It's an organization I became aware of while searching for information on Tour of Duty and I like to give to them in John's memory when I can.


From Cindy:

While I was on vacation this month I would leave an extra tip and a website Leave Behind card with "Thanks for your service" written on it when we ate in restaurants. I also left a card with a note at the condo when we checked out. And as we shopped and did sightseeing, and I struck up conversations with people, I'd give them a Leave Behind card with one of my crocheted hearts attached to it.


From Jenni:

Earlier this month (July 2013), my parents took my siblings and me on an Alaskan cruise.  We had a great time and it allowed me to perform some new RAOKs.  I left a few PIF angels around... far from any of the others!  I also discovered that I felt much less shy being around people I didn't know from Adam.  So I took the time to congratulate a newlywed couple, a girl celebrating a milestone birthday, and two Vietnam veterans (you can tell a lot about people from their clothes).  The first veteran thanked me and then said that what really mattered is people who serve their country in *any* way.  I thought that was really awesome because while I think our armed services make staggering sacrifices, it's important to remember that many others do, too, from emergency personnel to teachers and so on.  His humbleness was inspiring to me.  He seemed kinda surprised that I'd said anything which made me think that probably veterans don't get thanked enough.  So I want to get better about doing that... not just when on vacation.  I met the second veteran inside a Russian Orthodox cathedral.  He'd become a deacon and I felt blessed to learn a little about his life and his faith.  After all the rush and such, it felt pretty great to just slow down, pray, and be surrounded by centuries of evidence of humankind's devotion to God and His to us.  While there, I made a donation and lit a candle in memory of John, his mother, and my loved ones who have passed on.  It was a really moving experience.

With those two gentlemen, it felt more like being on the receiving end of a RAOK.  In both cases, it made me feel grateful for John's work on Tour of Duty because that show is what really woke me up to the fact that we need to show our appreciation for those who gave so much for their country.

Bonus: I woke up far earlier than the rest of my family so snuck in a couple TBAA episode viewings before we'd get to port.  I can now say I watched TBAA while drifting in the ocean.  ;-) 


From Anonymous:

I made a donation to Lynn Dye's church in memory of her on her birthday.


From Cindy:

I have paid for the driver behind me in the fast food lane and I got some Chick-Fil-A coupons for free food and attached a PIF card and dropped those around in honor of Lynn Dye's birthday.


From Anonymous:

A co-worker's husband has been having some health issues so I sent home dinner for the couple. 


From Jenni:

I joined in with some others at my workplace to support an organization that provides social programs and more for the disabled.


From Laura:

Got my water project started (getting filtered water at our local CMHA Wellness Development Center)!  I am so very exited...  It will be a riot!!! Here to wellness and water!!


From Jenni:

Like so many, I was saddened by the loss of lives and homes in Moore, OK.  I have family living very near Moore and know how special that area of the country is.  I donated to a food pantry near Moore in honor of the people there.


From Cindy:

I helped raise money for Relay for Life (American Cancer Society) this month. And, I never reported this, but, when I renewed my drivers license, I signed up to be an organ donor.


From Jenni:

In March I participated in my work place's Easter candy collection for the troops.  I also used the proceeds from a sale at my Etsy store to make a donation to a cancer charity in memory of my Grandma.  Then this month (April) someone asked me to make some thread angels for a memorial service so I used proceeds from that to support a charity aiding victims of the bombing in Boston.  Without John and PIF, I would never have started making those angels again.  I'm really glad this has helped me relearn an old hobby that others find comfort in!


From Cindy:

I’ve been hitting the fast food places a lot lately, so I do like to pay for the order behind me. I’ve done that. Also, I’m trying to attend my niece and nephews events, and support their causes at school…my niece’s class designed a t-shirt that they are selling and the money will go to the Sandy Hook school/community. She also jumped in Jump Rope for Heart…and, we have a Relay for Life team at work, so we are doing fundraising activities for that this month. I am also still crocheting the little hearts, only, now in different colors and giving them to people. I’m singing in the neighborhood church choir now, as well. those are the little things I’m doing. sometimes the little things mean a lot to others.


From Laura:

I bought nice shiny stickers today and gave them to a few people. It is so nice to talk other people who I do not know as well as the ones that I do know..My dog is a very good way to make an outing great as well..we talk to the owners and have a friendly conversation about our pets. I just try to go with the flow and try to do what I am able. Smile, say hello, share coffee with a friend.

Most of my RAOK are very simple. Anything, I do is such a blessing to me I receive joy and hope that it will give someone else a day better as well♥


From Jenni:

For the first time ever I've been doing a Bible study.  It's been really wonderful so I wanted to do a little something for the other ladies.  I've recently rediscovered how much I enjoy plastic canvas crafting so I made them and a few friends some hearts. 



From Anonymous:

My city got a lot of snow and then it melted and refroze. My neighbors on either side are older and while their sidewalks had been cleared of snow they ended up icy after the melt and freeze. The city will ticket people for icy sidewalks. Mine had refrozen too so I cleared it and was really tempted to go back inside since it was so cold but then I thought of John. I'm not sure why i thought of him then. So then I cleared my neighbors' sidewalks too because of that. I hope it saved them some trouble and kept the people who walk to the store up the street safe.


From Jenni:

I've been working on adding some items to my Etsy store and made a sale the same night I finally got several added!  I then donated the money to charity for National Heart Month.  I'm also sending a couple extra items to the buyer as thanks.  :-)


From Laura:

I took Candy Hearts to the Wellness Centre Yesterday..I had so much Fun!!! Everybody loves those little cinnamon hearts.

From Cindy:

 I crocheted a bunch of little valentine hearts and I've been passing them out this week. I will continue to do this all month as this is National Heart Month.

From Anonymous:

I donated to a fund for the Sandy Hook community in Connecticut.  I was heartbroken to hear of the loss of life there and continue to pray for all the family, loved ones, first responders, and town.


From Jenni:

Someone who was at my Grandma's funeral and saw the thread angels I made in her memory asked me to make some for one of their loved ones.  I made 25 for them to give out to their family members.  I also made some Christmas angels in memory of those who lost their lives at Sandy Hook Elementary.  I've been giving them out and plan on continuing to do that. 


From Cindy:

My 12-12-12 RAOK was to take a basket of Christmas peppermints to choir practice for folks to eat during our dress rehearsal for our Christmas program.


From Dottie:

A few of us at my church did adopt a Grandparent and we are giving them special gifts. These people are in the assisted living/nursing home.


From Nedra:

Many groups need help with all aspects of getting toys to children. Right now I am helping out with multiple agencies. There is so much involved in delivering gifts to families. That is just the last step! Most agencies that I have helped are swamped! They really appreciate the help.


From Jenni:

I spent a lil time RAOKing around the Christmas tree yesterday. ;-)  My workplace is gathering items to give to kids who are aging out of the foster care system so I got 6 winter hats and 6 pairs of gloves for the boys. I'm really glad someone at my office thought of it. I used to babysit foster children but always very young ones. I hadn't thought much about what happens when those lil kids become big kids and are on their own. If anyone's ever looking for something to do, maybe contact your local department of Health and Human Services or the like and see if they have a similar program.


From Anonymous:
 
Since today is 12/12/12 it seemed like a good time to participate in the 12 RAOKs of Christmas challenge.  I didn't know what to do then saw it was National Cocoa Day.  So I treated my co-workers to cocoa (with marshmallows and cinnamon, naturally)!


From Victoria:

I gave clothes to our community center.

Anonymous:

My office is raising money for an organization that provides comfort items (blankets, plush toys) to children experiencing hard times.  I donated to our group effort.

From Cindy:

Today I went to a small grocery store...not a super store. When my total was rung up the cashier asked me if I was collecting the stamps for the appliances...(I guess like S and H green stamps for those of you old enough to remember those) Anyway, I said no, and that she could give them to a customer who was collecting them. She said she was not allowed to do that, she'd have to give them to me then I could give them away if I wanted. So, I asked the guy behind me if he was collecting them, and he said yes, so she gave it (I only earned one) to me and I gave it to him. Easy RAOK.


From Jenni:

I donated to my alma mater's annual fund.  I try to do this every year but it was especially meaningful to me this year.  I was in high school when I first "discovered" John Dye's work, first with TBAA and then beyond.  I've been thinking a lot lately about how glad I am for that.  High school just wouldn't have been the same without John!  Additionally, the big project they're trying to fund this year is an arts center so I hope every little bit helps students who aspire to touch others through the arts just as John did.


From Donna C:

I just handed in my boxes for Operation Christmas Child. What a joy it is to be able to give to children in third world countries who don't have the luxuries we do. I start shopping for it in the summer. Problem is, those boxes are so small and I tend to overdo it...lol. But I have managed to get nice gift boxes that are just a smidgen bigger which you can do. I guess they just don't want us to get boxes too big. My only wish is that I could be with the children when they open their gift boxes and see the smiles on their faces.


It is such a blessing each time my church hosts the VIP families. These are people who have lost their homes and are one step away from having to live in a shelter. They just need temporary housing for a few weeks until they can get on their feet again. It was my church's turn this past week to host some families. I was one of the hosts. We provide the evening meal for them as well as snacks and breakfast/lunch items. At our church, we have a community room where they eat, watch t.v. or videos, play board games and do homework. Then each family and each host has a room to sleep in. Here is a picture of my 'bedroom' it is actually a Sunday School room.

Our neighborhood church participated in Operation Christmas Child. This is a program that collects 'shoeboxes' full of toys and items to be distributed to children all around the world. I helped with the GA and RA kids this week fill boxes with supplies donated by members of the church and community to send to the local collection center.  They will carry the boxes to the collection center this week. I also made two boxes myself and my niece and nephew made boxes on their own. Here is a picture of the boxes I made.

I made a monetary donation through Salvation Army for the victims of Superstorm Sandy. --Cindy


From Anonymous: Every year my workplace has this huge campaign to give money to United Way. It is a big to-do in my town, and my business is not the only one to really push this campaign. The way it is handled we cannot designate how our donation is used and, I don't agree 100% with how the money is distributed and how employees are asked to give. However, this year, I decided I would not give begrudgingly. I would just 'give' and not worry with how it might be used. It would still be a blessing to someone.


From Jenni:
 
My workplace collects Halloween candy to send to those serving in the military.  For the second year, I donated candy to the drive.  It's such a simple and fun thing to do.  I couldn't help but imagine Doc Hock and company being the recipients.  ;-)  

Also, I donated to various Hurricane Sandy related relief efforts including First Book.  They're a literacy group and are currently trying to get books to kids impacted by the hurricane. 


Every year my workplace offers us the opportunity to do a payroll deduction for charities. I never have before but this year I signed up to donate monthly to our local Make a Wish Foundation chapter. I'm doing this in memory of John Dye. ~Anonymous


From Donna Lea:
 
Yesterday, for the PIF anniversary, I volunteered at our local food pantry for the first time.  I have donated before and sponsored a food drive at the library for several years but had never actually worked there.  I thought it was the perfect time to start and plan to do so at least once a month.  It was very rewarding and something to do to honor John.  It's nice to give something back to him!


From Jenni:
 
In honor of PIF's one year anniversary, I wanted to do a RAOK and I wanted to do one that was truly inspired by John.  So... ever since we started to come up with ideas related to TBAA's Season 6, I've really wanted to make chocolate roses and give them out.  It's my own little twist on TBAA's "Buy Me a Rose."  I've always loved John's work in that episode.  He made Andrew seem so strong and no-nonsense and, as always, incredibly cool.  I assembled the "roses" in the photo and put them in my work place's breakroom on Oct. 15th.  I had a lot of fun making them (while watching TBAA, of course) and people seem to really like them.  The one problem was I did have to take them out of the Halloween containers because apparently people thought they were centerpieces and weren't going to eat them.  Lesson learned!  ;-)



From Victoria:

Well I did one today, my dad and I were at Wal Mart, and I was walking past the paper towel / toilet paper aisle and there was a lady in a wheelchair with a basket on the front trying to get some paper towels from pretty high up and they fell onto the floor right as I was walking by and I quickly said " I got em' " and walked over and picked them up and asked the lady if she was buying them and she pointed to the basket and I put them in , and then she said " Thank You " and I said "You're Welcome " and then we went our separate ways , it really made me feel good to help her :)

From Suzanne:

I play chess with an elderly neighbour. He is in his 90s and has no family left. However, I haven't won a game yet! :)  actually I'm sure I get more out of it. Priceless listening to old stories of his life..... He certainly doesn't get a challenge at chess he's had a lifetime to learn :) he's a sweet man! I'm privileged to get to know him better! Funny how random acts of kindness have a way of impacting you just as much xxx

From Anonymous:

Today I unpacked my fall and halloween decorations and while I was in my storage unit, I decided to go through my Christmas boxes and pull out items I could part with. I have two Rubbermaid containers of Christmas decorations and ornaments that I will donate to a church run second hand shop. This shop gives the money from the sale of the items to needy in the community. I have freed up some storage space, provided items for someone else to have, and generated money for those that need it. Three Blessings in one act.

From Anonymous:

Today, I bought some Bible study materials at a local book store. Seems they have a campaign to send books to soldiers, and when they ring up your purchase, you can add the total of a book to your purchase, and they will send the book to a soldier. I added the book to my purchase.


From Anonymous:

I can remember seeing Mr. Dye on an interview once and he said "Coincidence is when God remains anonymous." I have a coincidence story. I work for an event planning organization and part of my job is to do follow-up calls for RSVPs. I was calling a gentleman and was very surprised when the phone picked up and I heard what sounded like an angelic choir. I was absolutely shocked when it turned out to be the answering machine of a former co-worker. Obviously I was given an incorrect number but what were the odds of it really belonging to someone I knew? Stranger still, this person and my other former co-workers had been on my mind a lot. I've been watching the 'Touched by an Angel' DVDs that were recently made available. It made me think about where I was during those years. I started to feel badly that I hadn't done a better job of keeping in touch with the folks who surrounded me then but I hadn't done anything to remedy that. And that's when the "wrong number" incident happened. I took Mr. Dye at his word and used this "coincidence." I wrote my former co-worker to wish her well and tell her I've been thinking about her and would be praying for her. Thanks for letting me share. Thanks, Mr. Dye for all the good you brought to this world.


From Jenni:

Last night I went with some co-workers to prepare and serve dinner at the Ronald McDonald House.  This is our third time doing it and every time it's been a wonderful experience.  It feels really good to help provide home-cooked food to people who are away from theirs due to the children's illnesses.  

Since Halloween is approaching, I prepared "dirt cake" (see photo).  It's a concoction made of Oreos, pudding, whipped cream, and, yes, gummy worms.  I think this is definitely the grossest RAOK I've done in memory of John but I also think it may be the yummiest.  ;-)  It was great to see the lil ones (and the grown-ups!) enjoy something from my own childhood.  I feel blessed every time we do this.  Plus, it's proof that paying it forward for John can be a lot of fun!


Seeing John on screen made me smile. So I've tried to bring smiles to other people in small ways. In my work place I spend a lot of time emailing. Sometimes in the rush I forget there's a human on the other side of that email and give the required one word answers or send the needed file with no communication at all. But now I've started making a point to acknowledge that person on the other side. Adding a "Good morning!" or "I hope you have a wonderful weekend!" may not be much but I hope it shows the person that someone cares... and maybe they'll smile, too.

I have been helping out with local drives for a variety of causes this summer as well as continuing to give donations to charities I support.

From Marie and Ron:

 The first Saturday of December every year we host a Green’s party at my house. We do this in memory of our son. This was our tenth year. We invite everyone to come over and make greenery to use to decorate their own homes for Christmas. We gather all kinds of greenery from our property and others contribute as well. We have an assortment of ribbon, ornaments, embellishments, frames and containers to make wreaths, swags, and centerpieces, anything you can think of. People can bring their own supplies as well. We spread everything in areas throughout the yard. We set up work tables and supply tables throughout also. We then assist everyone as they make their masterpieces. People can make as many items as they want. I serve hot chocolate and/or cider as well as soups as we work outside and the temperature can be cold. It is a wonderful way for our friends, families and coworkers to meet each other. They share ideas, and help, and most of all, friendship as they work together. I have a huge chalkboard on my porch that everyone signs. It is always an enjoyable day and a good way to kick off the Christmas Season. 

From Nancy:

Today was a beautiful day. It was sunny, a little windy and cool but I had the spirit of Christmas in me sssoooo..I went shopping. I have almost everyone done. I will go again tomorrow and finish up except for the baking....I love Christmas time. People put out more of an effort to be nice...even me....I stopped at Tim Hortons for some timpbits for my great niece and nephew and I payed for the order behind me in the drive thru lane....I'll bet they were suprised...The cost of one tea and one coffee put a huge smile on each of their faces....I told the drive thru cashier to wish them a Merry Christmas...I had a good day....God is Awesome....It realy does the heart and body good to be able to do for others...even if they know who provided the kindess or not.I hope and pray that tomorrow will be just as good.


From Debbie R:

We adopted a dog from a lady because it was causing her stress and her glucose was going up.


Submitted by Tracey:

My mom announced today that she needed me to write out a fancy label for her because she was making a Christmas cake for my brothers  RAF flight who have just been deployed to Afghanistan. So I told her that she had just performed a Random Act of Kindness and asked her if I could share it on the site. She agreed and added that she was extremely proud and honoured to be able to do this for our serving airmen who will be away from their homes and families this Christmas. 


From Kimberly:

I am very involved with our local animal shelter; it is my job and also my hobby, as well as with my church.  I work in the administration department, sending out Thank Yous to donors and helping with fundraising as we are non-profit. We also work hard to educate the public about spaying and neutering as well as vaccinating to prevent disease.   We see lots of animal abuse and neglect which is heartbreaking. I love working with the animals and for the greater good.  I carry a leash in my car at all times and will stop for any stray animals as i can't bear the thought of them being hit or not being fed.  There is so much irresponsibility out there and they pay the price.

I am a member of a church that is very involved in our community.  We do so much outreach that was lacking at my last church and makes me really feel that we are acting as Jesus in our community.  It's so important to me to reach out to others, especially those less fortunate.

I am all for bringing common courtesy back to my town as it seems to be lacking everywhere and it has to start with me!

From Tracey:

Over the past few months, John has become a big part of my life. Even though he is no longer with us, he has brought so much to my life through my involvement with the site, so I wanted a special way to honour him. I wanted to Pay it Forward but also have a lasting memorial to John. So when Lynn (John's mom) told me how John had brought her to visit England & Scotland, the idea came for a Random Act of Kindness. Scotland is incredibly close to my heart, it was the place I got married and the place I go to for peace & quiet. So when the opportunity arose to plant some trees at my favourite retreat, I decided that this would be a fitting and lasting memorial to John. My hope is that future generations will benefit from my Random Act of Kindness to Mother Nature.

From Cindy:

This week is my church's turn to host  homeless families in a local ministry program.  The families sleep in one of our buildings at night.  They arrive between 5 and 6 in the evening and volunteers from my church bring them  a meal and eat with them.  Then volunteers come in at 8:00 and spend the night with them.  They have to be out of the building by 7:00 a.m.  The host's duties are to make sure the families are safe, building locked, and to keep the family company if they want it.  I  and another volunteer spent Sunday night with a delightful family.  It was a mother, teenager and child.  They had school the next morning, so played with the child for a little while, then gave the mother directions for getting out of the neighborhood (she had her own car) to take her children to their schools  and back to the day center.  She was preparing to go job hunting.  Then my "duties" were to make sure the facility was clean and lights turned out and locked up for the day.  They are using the youth building to house the families.  The "living area"  has a big screened t.v. with dvds and videos,  a nice comfortable sectional sofa, a few tables to eat at or play board games or cards.  Reading material, art and craft material for the kids, and  lamps and plants scattered through out all the rooms.  The kitchen is stocked with appliances, food and eating utensils for the guests to use as they would like.  They have snacks, food for breakfast if they want and food to make for sack lunches if they want.  Then they have their bedrooms.  Each family has it's own "bedroom" with cots set up and these rooms have small tables and lamps for reading and or writing as well.  All the rooms are painted and decorated very warmly and cheerfully (remember, these rooms are the youth Sunday School  and Youth Activity rooms the rest of the time). The "hosts" also have their own "bedrooms".   It was very comfortable.  The only drawbacks, are the restrooms are just equipped with sink and toilet...the people have to shower elsewhere, and they don't have hot water.  And sometimes, depending on the number of families ( they've had up to 13 people, I think) it could be a little crowded and chaotic when it's time to get up and prepare to leave.   And, of course, sleeping on a cot.  But, the place is heated and air conditioned, and the best thing is the families can stay together.  They are not split up according to gender as many shelters are -they can still function as a family.

From Nedra:

My passion is still providing things for my friends who live under the overpass! I do not hesitate to ask friends and others for donations! Right now I am collecting gently used blankets, sheets, and pillows. I usually do something once a week!

From Marie:

My son and his family live in the Atlanta area.  Once a month they work at a homeless shelter.  This began a few years ago as a ministry their church did.  They have since changed churches but they still volunteer at the shelters.  My 10 year old grand-daughter, Emily loves to write.  She has a blog on the internet.  She posted on her blog a couple weeks ago that she has decided she needs to use her talents for Jesus. She has been writing stories, or "books" some she has even entered into writing contests.  Her plan to use these and future stories for Jesus is this:  she will "sell" her "books" for 50 cents to people.  The money she raises will go to 2 specific homeless shelters in the Atlanta area.

A few years back some friends and I had a little project in which we dropped angels I had made in various random spots throughout our cities.  There was a tag attached to each that read "God loves you!"  We were all fans of John and that message was something we looked forward to hearing every week when Touched aired.  And it was a message we wanted to carry to those around us, friends and strangers both.  We hoped and prayed that those who found the angels would be touched, inspired, and, above all, know that they were loved.

In the years since I made those first "messenger angels," my appreciation for that all-important message that John and the Touched cast and crew delivered has only deepened.  So I've decided that as one of my "paying it forward" projects I'm making and distributing angels once again.  This time each comes with a card about our site, inviting the finder to help us celebrate John's life and "make a difference in your community."  On the back of the card I've hand-written those three vital and sustaining words: God loves you!

I pray that those who find the "Pay It Forward" angels will be blessed with the knowledge of God's love and inspired by John's life of compassion.

God bless,
Jenni

From Cindy:

I went on a shopping trip this weekend and made a conscious effort to look for ways to help people out.  I had remembered a long time ago someone speaking at a retreat about looking for ways to be helpful and courteous to people-the opportunities were there, we just had to be aware of them. Simple things like holding doors, helping them reach something on a shelf or pointing out something in the store that I overheard them looking for... At one point, I was coming out of a store and the escalators were right there.  I saw this woman step onto the escalator and she was holding a man's hand and he hesitated.  Didn't get on, so they got separated, she motioned for him to step on, but he didn't...he was holding a cane..so obviously was unsure of his footing.  She tried to "back track" and get off the escalator but other people were stepping on and she was too far along, and so she motioned for  him to wait, she'd be back.  So I walked up and asked him if he wanted me to help him get on.  He was very shakey, and my impression was maybe he had Parkinson's.  He said, no, he'd wait for her.  So, I stood there with him until she got back, then I asked her if she wanted me to help.  she said no thanks, she would just take him to the elevator. But at least he didn't have to wait alone, and she would have had some help if she wanted to try the escalator again.

From Priscilla:

My “pay it forward project “ will be to donate needed items to the local shelter for homeless women here in High Point. N.C. They can house 22 women and usually stay full. Their circumstances vary from abusive relationship, drugs and alcohol abuse,  to just not be able to make enough for food and shelter in this economy. They each must meet with the director to develop a plan to achieve housing, jobs, medical and mental wellness programs so they may be able to return to an independent life style. The shelter helps them to accomplish these goals. They are allowed to stay 90 days. They are provided with a continental breakfast and a hot dinner every day. Volunteer opportunities include serving the meals, teaching self esteem classes as well as donations of money and /or supplies. My first donation was to give them a large sack of our left over Halloween candy. They did me a “favor” by taking it. I plan to make this a year round project for this much needed ministry. Priscilla

From Tracey:

For most of my life, I have always tried to do "nice" things for people. Have always put others before self and knew that I was on a journey and that one day, everything would come together and my life's purpose realised. For a number of years I have sponsored two tibetan children who's family had sent them into exile and to the safety of The Dalai Lama, I have held fundraising events for their Tibetan's Children's Village in India. I became a caseworker for the charity Soldiers, Sailors and Airmens Families Association (SSAFA) and held more events to raise funds for our serving and retired servicemen and women. I was a volunteer for Childline UK dealing with abused, bullied and suicidal children.

All of these initiatives gave me much pleasure and raised much needed funds for their causes but my most rewarding times have been the "random acts of kindness" that everybody is capable of performing. Like the time I  bought an elderly lady a cup of tea as she had left all her money behind in the car and couldn't afford a cuppa or like bundling my students in my car when their taxi didn't turn up and getting them to their train on time. I am a big believer that the little things count, a smile, an encouraging word or a reassuring hug.

Earlier this year, I watched my first episode of Touched By An Angel and was introduced to "Andrew" a character that touched my heart. Through Andrew, I learnt of John and his kind, compassionate soul. I joined with like minded people who wanted to create a lasting tribute to John, the person and to continue the caring, loving work that he started. Now every day I make the little things count, I take time to appreciate what is around me and the needs of others. I am incredibly privileged to have worked with Jenni and Cindy in creating this site along with John's parents. I have hopes that through this site we will encourage people to make a difference in their communities by honouring John and Paying It Forward in his memory.

From Jenni:

There are so many, many things I am thankful to John for: helping me to cope with the loss of loved ones, giving me hope during my high school and college years (and beyond), and bringing so many wonderful friends into my life.  But one thing I haven't always recognized is how big of a part he played in breaking me out of my shell.  As a lifelong introvert, I don't do real well with striking up conversations.  But thanks to John's example, I've found myself doing things I never would have before.  I don't shyly avert my gaze from people on the sidewalk any more but greet them and help them if they look like they need it.  This once lead to me babysitting three little girls for about two minutes while their dad retrieved his wallet from the car so they could go to the cupcake shop.  Without John, I may not have had the opportunity to visit with these lil kids about cupcake flavors.  Who'd want to miss out on something like that!?  So I've recognized that sometimes "paying it forward" means moving beyond our comfort level but this is a good thing.

I've also learned to reconsider how my interests and hobbies might benefit others.  All my life I've tried my hand at various crafts.  I enjoy it immensely but sometimes never saw much value in what I did beyond it keeping me busy.  But then I got to thinking about how John bravely put his talents out there for the world, hoping to make it a better place.  So I've been making more of a point of using my own to touch others' lives.  I've made pillows for those facing illness and hospital stays.  I've made jewelry and trinkets for those who just needed a lil emotional boost.  And as I work on each pillow, earring, etc., I think of the man who inspired me to create them all and use what God gave me to share His love.

From Cindy:

My church had recently partnered with a ministry to homeless families in conjunction with other local churches. As a host church, we provide meals and overnight sleeping arrangements for homeless families. When we first started this, I was just donating money for meals my church provided. I didn't pay much attention to it until after January. I then learned how John was involved with feeding the homeless-working at his hometown food pantry. And, a Voice inside my head told me to do more. So, I went to an informational meeting about it-after all if John thought it was important... But you had to go to training and I didn't. Over the summer, I did begin buying items requested for the families during their stay...games, school items, dvd's-stuff for them to do before they went to sleep. Yet, this still small Voice kept egging me on to do more-to get involved with the families. Finally in August, the request came for more females to spend the night with the families as they actually sleep in the church building. This was about the same time John's mom told me that John would carry his left over food from restaurants to homeless people -I imagined him literally handing containers of food to homeless people and chatting with them. And I thought how uncomfortable I would be talking and interacting with homeless people but, that Voice said, "Do this" . So, I made an appointment with the coordinator for my training, and I am now trained. I did not participate with the last rotation, but am expecting to when the next one comes around. I listened to the Voice a little quicker than I normally do because I kept thinking "John did for the homeless, I can too".

Oh, and their mission verse: Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by doing so some people have entertained angels without knowing it. Hebrews 13:2
and, I did not know that until I started writing this up and checked some facts on their website. Another reason I really am beginning to wonder if John truly was an Angel. And, no, the Voice was not John, it was God, but makes me wonder if John was standing next to Him when He spoke to me.

From Rebecca:

I have donated many clothes to the mission at our church for the homeless.  I have also made a small donation.  This has been one of my favorite charities because I could imagine myself or almost anyone ending up in this situation.  I know  homeless charities were one of John's that he was involved with as well.

I have also been donating through Elton John's Aids foundation did at the time of John's death and will continue to do so.  I also each day try to remember that each gesture, and mood that I send out can affect each person that I come in contact with and I try to remember that it is like a "ripple affect" so I try to "pay it forward" with a smile or positive attitude that will reflect Gods great love each day.   This is something I have to remind myself of because it is so easy  to slip into a negative attitude and it truly does have an affect on everyone I come in contact with.


My name is Priscilla and I am a semi retired registered nurse. My ministry as a job and as a volunteer has focused on Alzheimer’s disease and the death and dying process. God has given me the honor of being at the bedside of so many over the years when the angel of death came. Some were young as with Hospice and the cancer unit, some elderly in long term care. Long before I met “our Andrew” I knew there was an angel in the room. The first time I saw John as Andrew on TBAA, I felt like I had met an old friend. I could never see the angel but I could feel him/her, however, many of my patients would see him and talk to him prior to their death. “Can’t you see him, Priscilla, there in the corner” And another time, “don’t stop that angel when he comes to get me” For this, I have been greatly blessed. At present I work several days on the Alzheimer’s unit. I also support Love Line, which is a ministry for cancer patients’ families. At Christmas friends/families can donate a light in memory or in honor of loved ones. This Christmas John will have a “light” there. He was a “light” for so many, wasn’t he? I think his portrayal of Andrew has lessened the fear of death for so many. I visit  in some of the nursing homes just to hug/love and talk a few minutes to those who are so lonely. It is hard to outlive your family and friends. I do “limited” cat rescue now because I have adopted so many that stayed in my home. I plan to continue my ministries as long as God will allow and for that I am grateful.