2013 - 2014 Annual 'A Simple Act of Kindness' Contest
Inspired by the novel Pay It Forward by Catherine Ryan Hyde, or the film of the same name, this contest asks students to examine how their actions affect others. The hero of the novel devises a plan to do something nice for three people. When asked how they can pay back his kindness, he tells them to "Pay It Forward" to three more people. This chain of passing along an act of kindness quickly multiplies, positively affecting a large number of people in a short time.
There are many things within our communities that each of us could do to make a positive difference. We could get involved in helping the homeless or underprivileged; tackling the problems of youth violence, literacy, pollution, at-risk youth; speaking out against ethnic slurs, jokes, and hate music; appreciating and celebrating our ethnic, religious, and cultural differences; and the list goes on and on.
We ask you to look beyond yourself and make a difference in someone's life. Sometimes, it can be as easy as smiling at someone who is feeling sad, or including an individual who is alone. Even a simple act of kindness can make a tremendous difference and, in turn, can positively affect others.
Tell us about Acts of Kindness in your life and how you are making a difference at home, at school, or in your community. What did these acts mean to you and how do you think you have affected change for the better? Download the flyer for more information:
2013 Annual 'A Simple Act of Kindness' Contest Winners
High School Division
Stephen Millan, Grade 10 - Christopher Columbus High School - Read entry
Elementary School Division
Ava Scemama, Grade 6 - Norman S. Edelcup Sunny Isles Beach K-8 - Read entry
Wall of Students Making a Difference
2012
Darren McEwan, Coral Springs High School - Read entry
Jason Petusevsky, Grade 12, Coral Springs High School - Read entry
Bria Carey, Grade 12, Coral Springs High School - Read entry
Chris Boykin, Grade 7, Gamble Rogers Middle School - Read entry
Jorja Gwaltney, Grade 7, Gamble Rogers Middle School - Read entry
2011
Shanon Morin, Grade 12, Hallandale High School - Read entry
Ralph Usatorres, Grade 8, St. Kevin Catholic School - Read entry
Victoria Crespin, Grade 3, St. Kevin Catholic School - Read entry
2010
Jessica Allen, Grade 12, Coral Springs High School
Hilary Levin, Grade 8, Odyssey Middle School
2009
Christina Vala Addison, 5th grade, Mizner Elementary School
Dylan Tellam, Grade 6, Palmetto Middle School
2008
William Scheinman, 10th grade, Hillel Community Day School
Amanda Topanes, 4th grade, Good Shepherd Catholic School
2007
Cassie Scheinman, 10th grade, Hillel Community Day School
