DARLINGTON, S.C. – Hundreds of students and staff members from across Darlington County School District joined together recently to spread cheer and kindness to their communities.
The third annual Random Acts of Kindness Day continued the district’s yearslong endeavor to promote the values of kindness, gratitude, understanding, and service not only for its students but also for everyone in Darlington County.
Every school and department participated in the event, and service projects aimed to reach each corner of the county.
District Superintendent Tim Newman launched the Random Acts of Kindness Day in conjunction with a more internally focused kindness and gratitude initiative in the district.
“The Random Acts of Kindness day focuses on teaching our students the importance of being grateful for what they have and giving back to their community without expecting anything in return,” Newman said. “This important character education trait instills a sense of responsibility with our DCSD staff, students, and families.”
People are also reading…
In Lamar, all three schools partnered together with several agencies and organizations for a huge Community Resource Fair that included live performances, medical services and information about the opportunities available to students.
In Hartsville, the high school handed out diapers and hot dogs for any family that stopped by while elementary schools visited local apartment complexes and nursing homes, delivered “Appreciation Packs” to local businesses, partnered with local churches to provide luncheons, and assisted with the YMCA’s Fun Run.
One event in Darlington saw Darlington High, Mayo High, Darlington County Institute of Technology and Darlington Middle join together to pack supply bags for the Department of Social Services, while elementary schools delivered food and motivational notes to local organizations, businesses and emergency first responders.
Rosenwald Elementary prepared and delivered breakfast to disabled or elderly citizens of Society Hill.
And while the event is spearheaded at the school district level, it would not be possible without partners at every level of the county including Darlington County Sheriff’s Office and EMS, Rotary Clubs, YMCA, Darlington County Humane Society, several local churches, Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center and others.