Putting ‘the power of giving’ into action
By Kyla Hurt
From 12:30-2:30 p.m. on Monday, May 11, the square in downtown Jacksonville was full of activity and bright young faces waving to signal passersby to stop … for a visit and some cheer.
Hosted by the Illinois School for the Deaf SEL (Social Emotional Learning) committee and ISD students, the Kindness Activity Fair was saturated with just that — kindness.
Flyers promoting the event stated, “Our students are learning the power of giving — and we invite you to be part of that experience. Come together with our staff and students as we spread kindness throughout our community.”
Hotdogs, popcorn and more were all being given out at no charge to anyone interested in popping by the event.
There were also donation drives at the event in support of Morgan County Animal Control and Jacksonville Food Pantry.
One other terrific part? That was all the welcoming smiles and genuine excitement from the ISD students as they greeted attendees.
This event was made possible by Hannah’s Happy Day Foundation, a charitable organization committed to spreading kindness one kind act at a time.
The foundation was formed to honor the memory of Hannah Mansell, “a beacon of joy and kindness,” who died in January 2021 at the age of 26.
