Random Acts of Kindness Day is recognized globally as a celebration of compassion, connection, and positive action.

Opportunity and volunteer work are some of the ways that Vancouverites can connect with different communities across the Lower Mainland.

“I think giving people opportunities and hearing what they like to do, and what they want to do to [can] get them to give back to the community,” says Collingwood House Executive Director Betty Lepps.

It’s the ability to connect with others that can make someone’s day, no matter how small, like a short conversation when entering a school gym.

“Part of my job is being respectful and friendly with students who are gym goers,” Says FWR student Mona Meighan. “I hope that that’s just what someone needs, someone to talk to or have someone be kind to them.”

Vancouver is incredibly diverse, continuing to push for better equity and laws that handle discrimination, according to the City of Vancouver’s website. Welcoming immigrants from other countries. “Regardless of background – citizens have complete access to civic services, and live free of prejudice and discrimination,” says the City of Vancouver’s official website.

The warm welcome Metro Vancouver provides can integrate people into communities more efficiently. “People have shared their stories with me that they were new immigrants and they came here for support and ended up volunteering. They ended up giving back through volunteer work.” Says Lepps.

While community groups and neighbourhood houses welcome residents with open arms, Meighan says that maintaining these relationships is hard.

“I do agree with the quote-unquote stereotype that Canadians are nice — I’ve consistently heard from a lot of people who have immigrated here, that they sometimes have trouble making friends or getting along with others because it’s a bit cliquey.”

With kind acts, like compliments or holding open a door, Vancouver can thrive with people being more genuine to each other. “People just aren’t super open here, I think, having a little bit more kindness may be good.” Says Meighan.

Kindness can be the motivator for someones day.

“I think the power of giving is reciprocal, but also cyclical, which means it comes back.” Says Lepps.